Finding Neverland Movie
Storyline
TAGLINES
Unlock your imagination.
How far can your imagination take you.
Where will your imagination take you?
London, 1903: four lads, three women, and J.M. Barrie in the year he writes "Peter Pan." After one of his plays flops, Barrie meets four boys and their widowed mother in the park. During the next months, the child-like Barrie plays with the boys daily, and their imaginative games give him ideas for a play. Simultaneously, a friendship deepens with Sylvia, the lads' mother, to the chagrin of his wife Mary, with whom he spends little time (separate bedrooms), the widow's mother, and high society, which gossips about his attraction to the widow and to her sons. As Sylvia's health worsens, Barrie's ties to the boys strengthen and he must find a way to take his muse to Neverland.
| Kate Winslet | Sylvia Llewelyn Davies |
| Johnny Depp | Sir James Matthew Barrie |
| Julie Christie | Mrs. Emma du Maurier |
| Radha Mitchell | Mary Ansell Barrie |
| Dustin Hoffman | Charles Frohman |
| Freddie Highmore | Peter Llewelyn Davies |
| Joe Prospero | Jack Llewelyn Davies |
| Nick Roud | George Llewelyn Davies |
| Luke Spill | Michael Llewelyn Davies |
| Kelly Macdonald | Peter Pan |
| Mackenzie Crook | Mr. Jaspers - Usher |
| Eileen Essell | Mrs. Snow |
| Jimmy Gardner | Mr. Snow |
| Oliver Fox | Gilbert Cannan |
| Marc Forster |
8.20 out of 10 (29131 votes)
Visitor Reviews
Wow.
posted on 28 Aug 2009In 1998 there was some serious controversy over the Best Picture Oscar, which was a toss-up between Saving Private Ryan and Shakespeare in Love. My position was that while Saving Private Ryan is inarguably one of the greatest war films ever made, Shakespeare in Love was a historical epic that managed to tell an in-depth story about Shakespeare's life that is not necessarily historically accurate, but accurate as far as what very little is known about Shakespeare himself. It was a story that was built upon theories of what may have happened in his life to lead him to write the plays that he wrote, and the movie took us back to that time in his life and told an incredible story which makes perfect sense as far as the content of his plays. It was almost like time travel the connections were so sharp. Finding Neverland takes something of the same tactic, tying in people from J.M. Barrie's life to the characters that he created in his plays.Granted, this took place in the early 20th Century and not the early 17th Century, as in Shakespeare's case, and much more is know about Barrie's life than Shakespeare's, but the film tells such a moving and beautiful story that it reinvents the Peter Pan legend, which has by now become such an enduring classic that it almost seems like the vast majority of people alive today grew up on it. It brightened the childhoods of innumerable people, and this brilliant film breathes new life into the story.I've heard numerous criticisms of the film that I don't care to acknowledge or dignify, and surely there are countless reviewers and critics who think they're clever by pointing out the connection between the title of the movie and Michael Jackson's recent lawsuits. I've seen and heard many such comments, and I am always struck by what an efficient method it is for a person to cheapen a great movie and, at the same time, to clearly illustrate their own intellectual shallowness and utter lack of anything important or interesting to say.Johnny Depp fits flawlessly into the role of Barrie, a man who struggled to make a career as a playwright writing plays that he thought the lawyers and doctors in his audience wanted to see, before finally just writing what he believed in with the people in mind that he wanted to entertain – children. He was indeed a pioneer of children's literature, which is why it comes as a surprise to me that people are so quick to jump to conclusions about his interest in children and their entertainment. He was a child at heart, and the children saw him as one of their own. One of the first things that I learned when I studied Children's Literature at the University level was that it is adults, NOT children, that impose sexual meaning onto children's stories. Countless examples can be found in Alice in Wonderland, for example, and have also tarnished the reputation of Walt Disney himself.Classics of children's literature invariably come from people who spend the majority of their time concerned with entertaining children, and I'm thrilled to see that there are still major filmmakers and actors who can see that and look beyond things like the Michael Jackson scandals, which themselves may or may not be true. Personally, I think it is at least as likely that Michael Jackson is either completely insane and literally thinks he's a child himself or that he harbors the same interest in children that Barrie did, which was a completely harmless connection with his inner child, something that the vast majority of adults in the world could use more of.I heard of a study that concluded that children smile something like 200 times a day, while adults smile something like six times a day. That's exactly the kind of thing about which a movie like Finding Neverland is designed to remind us all. When we meet Barrie he is pacing backstage at the opening night of one of his plays, which turns out to be a tremendous flop. He's sitting in the park not long after, mulling over his failed effort, and meets the boys about which his classic play Peter Pan ultimately becomes based upon.The adventures that Barrie and these boys, as well as their mother, have, become the fascinating tour through the life of one of the most creative and fascinating minds in literary history. Finding Neverland is a biography, of sorts, and while the term Inspired by True Events may be the one that describes a story that is based very loosely on a true story, any creative liberties taken with Barrie's life serve only to make his story into more of a captivating fairy tale than it might otherwise have been. The conclusion of the film, for example, where Neverland appears in the boys' house to the wondrous delight of their sick mother is unlikely, but rarely are creative liberties taken with greater success. The only dry eyes in the house, as they say, will indeed be found in the heads of the audience members who display the same bitter frigidness as the grandmother in this movie.And here is the most interesting thing about the way the movie is structured and designed – If you find yourself completely unmoved by it, then it is you that the movie is designed to inspire.Bravo.
'Find' Yourself In This Movie
posted on 23 Aug 2009Johnny Depp has never been an actor to do "mainstream" movies, with the exception of Pirates of the Caribbean. The same holds true for Finding Neverland, which has a feel of an independent movie.
The story takes place in 1903 and is about author J.M. Barrie (Depp) and how he became inspired to write the play "Peter Pan." Basically he was at the park and met the Davies Family. Sylvia (Kate Winslet) is the mom/widow of the family whom has four boys that she is responsible for. James begins the hang out with the family on a regular basis. He plays cowboys or pirates with the boys. As he does this, he writes down all of his ideas and images, which eventually turns out to be "Peter Pan."
Johnny Depp gaves an amazing performance. I really hope that he gets his long over-due Oscar for this performance. Everytime that he is in a movie, he makes it a better. He is the perfect person to play the role of a grown man who doesn't want to grow up. Kate Winslet also gives a good, dramatic performance. Julie Christie and Dustin Hoffman are also featured in this film and due well for having limited roles.
The movies itself was really good. It seems like the kind of movie that would get boring, but it actually didn't. I was very interested in the movie the whole way through. Marc Forster did an excellent job of directing this movie. I especially like how he showed what James is thinking in his imagination. Also the way the recreation of the original "Peter Pan" play is something to see. Forster definately did his homework on the original "Peter Pan" play.
So my recommendation is the check this movie out. It is a very entertaining movie, that provides you with a good message. Imagination is the greatest gift of all and to always try to find and keep alive the inner child in you. Thats a great message, but just don't take it to Michael Jackson levels.
Brilliant movie - A must
posted on 18 Aug 2009This was one movie which really captured me. I haven't seen anything as spectacular as this in about 3 years. I don't tend to watch too much TV or videos or any entertainment like that but this captured me in about 5 minutes.I keep wondering why johnny drop doe snot have an Oscar, he's a brilliant actor, and people love him in Pirates of the Caribbean and he just keeps getting better and better.If you like Johnny this film is a must see.I don't have enough words to express myself, just watch this film, it's a clear expression of the tranquility you need in life. There is nothing to keep you on the edge of your seat, which makes the film amazingly enjoyable, you just want him to keep his life in order.
one of the most touching movies of all times, a true master Eve
posted on 14 Aug 2009i saw this movie two days ago and i am still in awe of it. i am sure that it will become one of those rare timeless masterpieces. the movie brought new light to one of those masterpieces peter pan. johnny Depp gave an amazing performance he played the part of j.m. Berrie amazingly never has one movie ever touched me so deeply. it is certainly a tear jerker. I saw the movie with my girlfriend, my best friend, and his girlfriend and at first i was ashamed to let them see me cry but when i could hold back any longer i looked over to see all 3 of them crying as well as everybody else in the theater. that is how touching the movie is it brought two 21 year old men to tears. we have been friends since we were in third grade and neither have ever seen the other cry. this movie is just simply perfect. it shows exactly how time is chasing after each and everyone of us and the only defense we have against it is our imaginations. i wish that everyone would see this movie so they might realize how short life really is and maybe they might just think back to when they were just a boy hunting pirates in the jungle of their backyard
A great movie
posted on 09 Aug 2009This movie really touched my heart. It's based on the man who wrote Peter Pan, and in my opinion his story is more remarkable than the play he wrote. A man who struggled to write a hit play, struggled to find happiness within his marriage, and struggled to find himself. He finds a young boy named Peter who's mom is played be Kate Winslett. He becomes involved with this young boys family and his whole life changes. This is a touching story, and dare I say will bring a tear to your eye. My wife and I thouroughly enjoyed this movie. I hope you do as well.
Keep The Magic Of Childhood Alive!
posted on 05 Aug 2009"Finding Neverland" is a deeply moving, poetic film, based on the life of Scottish playwright and novelist James Matthew Barrie, and adapted from Allan Knee's play "The Man Who Was Peter Pan." It is a fictional account of how Barrie came to write "Peter Pan," which has long been a beloved children's classic symbolizing everlasting youth.
Johnny Depp gives an unusually understated, sensitive performance as J. M. Barrie, who is facing a crisis in life. His latest play is not receiving accolades, and his marriage has grown cold and sterile. He meets Sylvia Llewelyn Davies, (Kate Winslet), a widowed mother of four sons, and immediately hits it off with her boys - played by Joe Prospero, Nicholas Roud, Luke Spill, and the extremely gifted Freddie Highmore as Peter. Although he is friendly with Sylvia, it is with the children that he is able to take-off on glorious flights of imagination. And the five of them soar. Their back-yard games transform into fantasy imagery. They're flying!! The results are remarkable scenes played out as adventures, veritable fetes of daring. He and the boys act as pirates sailing the Spanish Main, cowboys and "red Indians" riding the plains of the old West.
In reality, however, this is Edwardian England, not the Wild West, and Barrie's friend Arthur Conan Doyle, (Ian Hart), warns him of vicious gossip about his "unseemly" interest in the family. Barrie responds with disgust. As he becomes increasingly involved with the boys, tension escalates between him and his upper-class wife, Mary, (Radha Mitchell). Sylvia's mother, Emma (Julie Christie), also lifts a questioning brow, wondering why on earth a grown man would spend so much time with children, and someone else's to boot!
Barrie's deep feelings for Sylvia and her boys are genuine. A decent man, he never had kids of his own, nor did he have much of a childhood. Complex and creative, emotionally immature with a brilliant mind, he carves out a realm for himself with the Davies family, his own Neverland of sorts. He lavishes them with affection, gifts, and tons of energy as he enacts, with them all, his inspired games. His poignant longing for the childhood he missed is evident. For me, Barrie epitomizes the "lost boy." The children, in turn, love him back and gift him with the inspiration for his haunting tale of Peter Pan, the youth who refuses to grow up. In David Magee's screenplay, Sylvia is the female figure in Barrie's fantasies - like a Wendy - more maternal than wifely.
Sorrow and loss lie just over the horizon from this world of fantasy and delight, but I will keep them at bay here. Let it suffice to say that some dark themes are explored. Director Marc Forster has delivered a fine period piece, with amazing sets and costume design. The acting is superb. Johnny Depp imbues the film with a sense of wonder. Ultimately, "Finding Neverland" is about holding on to the all the magical aspects of childhood and keeping the imagination alive. This movie touched me deeply. PS - bring some extra tissues along.
JANA
More stars if possible...
posted on 03 Aug 2009I have so much to say about this movie! It deserves so much more credit than it has been given! I loved it! I loved the imagination factor, I love the actors/actresses, I loved everything. This movie has to be one of the best movies I have seen in a while. It came along when I have been disappointed by many movies I have seen recently and this was just great and made me excited that finally there was a movie worth my time! Go and see this movie--I think you will be happy you did so.
Very well written, filmed, and acted movie!
posted on 02 Aug 2009I thoroughly enjoyed this film. I was amazed with Kate Winslet's performance. Before this movie, I had just seen Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and I was amazed that it was even the same actress! She truly becomes each of her characters. I think she and Johnny Depp are two of the most impressive actors of our day. The child that plays Peter is a phenomenal actor, with a lot of potential. The storyline is very well developed and you get engrossed into the relationships of the characters. Everyone in this film I thought did a spectacular job. It's truly one of my favorite films of 2004. I would definitely recommend this movie to anyone interested in a talented film.
The movie that never grew up.
posted on 02 Aug 2009*Finding Neverland*, though competently done, is a pretty much dishonest movie through and through, in terms of the historical situation of its story (for instance, Sylvia Llewelyn-Davies was NOT a widow in 1903-04 when *Peter Pan* was produced, but was married to a fellow who naturally found Barrie's intrusion into the life of his family deeply offensive and disturbing) and, even worse, in terms of Barrie's creative processes. This movie (based on a recent London stage play called *The Man Who Was Peter Pan* by someone-or-other) would have us believe that J.M. Barrie -- an otherwise "normal", relatively successful playwright -- finally was able to encapsulate, in his writing, the virtues of childhood after bumping into Sylvia and her family at Kensington Park. And thus, Barrie rediscovers those childhood virtues for an increasingly cynical modern world.This makes for an uncontroversial, user-friendly, Oscar-nominated sort of movie, but it's really little better than rubbish. It's one thing to take liberties with real characters and events in order to forge a coherent narrative, but *Finding Neverland* reinvents Barrie and his milieu out of whole cloth. What's the point of that? It certainly renders much of the film's action incomprehensible: Barrie's producer (Dustin Hoffman), for instance, is depicted here as deeply doubtful about the prospects for *Peter Pan*, and yet he agrees to stage it anyway. In the movie's universe, why would he? -- it doesn't make any sense. It becomes more clear when we recall the childhood-fetishism that was rampant in Edwardian England at the time (Robert Louis Stevenson's tales for young readers, and the work of Beatrix Potter, spring immediately to mind). Of COURSE a producer would be attracted to something like *Peter Pan* in 1904. But this movie presents Barrie as an iconoclast who wins converts.As for Barrie's personal life, the movie makes it equally senseless. There's no clear reason why the writer (personified by the very handsome Johnny Depp) wouldn't make any obviously natural overtures to widow Sylvia (a gorgeous Kate Winslet). Of course, he'd be cheating on his own wife, but the movie isn't quite prepared to make Barrie a saint or a monk. (He IS married in the movie, after all.) In real life, Barrie was something of an actress-chaser who, ironically, may have been sexually impotent -- if one may believe his fiction, and one should, for that is where writers really tell their autobiographies. *Finding Neverland* elides all of this, with the result that his relationship with Sylvia doesn't pass the credibility test. Compounding the problem is that the movie doesn't dare confront just how hung-up Barrie was over the death of his brother David, or the resulting Oedipus complex that followed with regard to his mother. We get a quick speech tossed off by Depp -- "My brother died; my mother never got over it; I dressed in his clothes one night to make her happy" (paraphrasing, of course) -- that does not begin to explain Barrie's obsession with the Llewelyn-Davies kids and with kid-hood in general. I normally agree with the notion that "psychologizing" famous people, artists especially, is a cheap trick that simplifies more than it explains; but here's a case in which the author's own writings give us troubling clues with which the movie avoids dealing. *Finding Neverland* doesn't even consider that the idea of a Boy Who Never Grows Up could be a disturbing one. Sadness and loss are treated here as the dismal adjuncts of growing up . . . when they SHOULD have been the dismal adjuncts of a man's refusal to grow up. I just don't understand why praise has been heaped onto this movie. Perhaps in 2005, Americans feel so dispirited that an infantilizing entertainment such as this seems irresistible. We should resist it, though: among other things, adulthood can be defined as the state in which a person is capable of dealing with life's problems. We cannot afford to be babied in these times, even within the context of pop culture.3 stars out of 10.
A great movie, with the added bonus of hottie Johnny Depp
posted on 31 Jul 2009This movie was very moving and emotional, a serious tear-jerker. The acting was excellent, especially in the children, and of course Johnny Depp was stunning. (and gorgeous.) One of my personal favorite aspects of the movie was that when J.M Barrie was telling stories to the children you saw exactly what he imagined, say if they were on a small raft on a lake he imagined it as a pirate ship in the ocean, and you saw that. Small touches like these were scattered throughout the movie and it made it all the more real and fantastic to watch. Very enjoyable and humorous at times, with a sweet, if sad ending. Its sort of 'Chocolat' mixed with a little costume drama, and a sprinkling of Titanic romance. The soundtrack was also beautiful. a must see, and a personal fave.
Nice acting, but not much else
posted on 30 Jul 2009This movie was not particularly watchable for me. The acting is great by the leads, but the whole concept of "the real story, only with some facts changed" as well as the whole magical realism feel to it just did not appeal to me. Sorry, can't recommend this.
The magic is missing
posted on 29 Jul 2009Production Values: Excellent; great cinematography, costumes, sets, etc.; sure to be nominated for Oscars in several categoriesCharacter Development: Good, as you would expect in this kind of movieCharacter Appeal: Kate Winslet's Sylvia is warm and appealing, but Winslet doesn't have that much to work with here. Depp's Barrie is oddly stiff and restrained.Target Audience: More likely to appeal to women and children.My Take: After seeing the previews, I was prepared to love this movie. Yet despite the fact that Neverland oozes quality, it didn't hold my interest until the final third. Up to that point, the movie consists mostly of scenes in which Barrie plays make-believe games with Sylvia's children. These scenes didn't work for me at all. Barrie is supposed to be relating to the children on their level, like Peter Pan. But Depp's Barrie pales in comparison with the character Barrie created. Depp isn't nearly as convincing in the role of child-man as Mary Martin was in the classic TV version of Peter Pan. It doesn't help that the director chose to insert fantasy sequences during the make-believe scenes rather than letting Depp use his acting skills to convey each imaginary situation. The only other potentially interesting thing going on in this first section of the movie is the budding relationship between Barrie and Sylvia, if you can call it that. There is not a touch between them or even a longing glance. They only talk about the kids, not each other. The movie does pick up in the final third when rehearsals start for Peter Pan. But in the end it becomes an overly sentimental tear-jerker. 6 out of 10
Finding Neverland
posted on 29 Jul 2009What a what a wonderful surprise! This movie was a wonderful story from a small segment of the life of Sir James Barrie. Johnny Depp is outstanding as is Kate Winslet and Julie Cristie.Barrie is a much more complex character than one would guess from his famous play or the book about Peter Pan. He was truly the boy who never grew up. But his ability to crate this magic world for children is exquisite. I am always amused by the way the British view "Red Indians" from the New World. They never get it right, but it is charming anyway. Captain Hood and the crocodile who ate the clock always amuse me. He included little girls in his adventures which wasn't always done at that time.However, this story was about Barrie and his love of children and play. It is certainly not the usual picture of the dour Scot. I read in his biography that he never physically matured which may explain why he stayed childlike. Johnny Depp was outstanding and mastered his dialect perfectly. Kate Winslet was excellent, but certainly didn't look like a consumptive. Julie Christie was a surprise since I hadn't seen her for a long time. I hope we see more of her.
Finding Neverland is an awfully great adventure.
posted on 28 Jul 2009Some movies are great because of their fine acting, some because of their fascinating stories, others because of their depth of character and still others because of the moods they evoke. And then there are those rare films that seem to have it all.
This movie has it all.
From amazing performances, to believable and likeable characters, to a fascinating, original storyline, to laughter and tears, Finding Neverland does not disappoint on any level.
Johnny Depp is truly amazing. There is no other actor who can create original characters and make them multidimensional the way Depp can. Depp's Barrie is a shy, sensitive, creative genius filled with warmth and humor. I can't imagine any other actor who could play Barrie with that kind of believability. Pitt? Too shallow and untested. Cruise? Too self-involved. Crowe? Too rough around the edges. (Pay attention during the parlor scene in Sylvia's house when James relates to Sylvia the story of his mother after the death of James's brother. He has never spoken of his unique fantasy--Neverland--to anyone before this, he tells her. Depp's delivery is remarkable. Watch the subtle movements in his expression. The eyes, the shy smile. Incredible.)
And Kate Winslet puts in an outstanding performance as Sylvia, a woman who has her priorities in the right places. She made me want to go home, trade my PC for Play-Doh and spend my time with my kids.
Although I don't think Depp and Winslet are an obvious couple, and there's never anything physical between Sylvia and James, the depth of love shown by these characters is obvious and genuine. Once again, it would be hard to picture other actors in their places.
Freddie Highmore's performance as Peter is garnering all the attention, and rightfully so, but all the boys are extraordinary. They are so convincing that it is hard to believe these boys are from the present century. There's not a one who doesn't represent his character as if he were in fact a Llewellyn Davies.
The scenery and the music also evoke another, more innocent era, strengthening the mood of the film.
Even the fringe characters--Radha Mitchell as cold Mary Barrie, Dustin Hoffman as James's dry-humored business manager, and Julie Christie as Sylvia's stern, protective mother--hit the mark.
And director Marc Forster was robbed of an opportunity to win an Oscar, having not even been nominated. The scenes are so original, so well-thought-through, they are Oscar worthy by far.
Anyone who appreciates a warm story filled with rich performances will find Finding Neverland rewarding.
Surprisingly enjoyable.
posted on 27 Jul 2009"Finding Neverland" is an interesting drama-fantasy about James Matthew Barrie's inspiring and unusual relationship with the Davies family. It was this relationship that Barrie (Johnny Depp) based his play Peter Pan on.Director Marc Forester shows us in a unique yet comprehensible way in which Barrie would find his own world of imagination that he dubbed "Neverland". Barrie would escape to Neverland and use his imagined adventures as inspiration for his plays. Through his regular walks in the park we meet the troubled Davies family, consisting of the widowed mother Sylvia Llewellyn Davies (Kate Winslet) and her five children. Despite the disapproval of the surrounding London community, Barrie goes on to nurture his valuable relationship with the boys and their mother. Through him the boys learn to overcome their father's death and explore the beauties of life. For much of the film's duration we follow Barrie and the Davies family in their frequent "adventures" in Neverland, each one bearing a distinguishable similarity with the classic play. Forester doesn't offend his audience by corrupting these fantasy sequences with clichéd explanations or occurrences such as dreams or "a sudden, blinding white light". Instead we travel fluently between fantasy and reality, each being easily recognizable. Despite the wonderful direction during these fantasy sequences, I must say that those in "Belle de jour" are ultimately superior considering they come from the master of surrealism, Luis Bunuel, who always leaves you guessing on what was real and what was hallucination, flashback, or dream.Johnny Depp gives a performance void of life; although this can be considered appropriate being that it is supposedly so similar to the withdrawn and shy J.M. Barrie. Kate Winslet is perfect for the role of a caring yet seriously ill mother trying to make the most out of life. The young actors playing the children surprised me that their performances weren't cheesy or corny.Excellent and subtle acting (no scene chewing) from the entire cast. Surprisingly enjoyable and original for a fantasy-drama film. The film does, however, take a few liberties. Sylvia is already a widow when Barrie meets her and it was also rumored that Barrie was a womanizer, although he is represented in a totally different light in this interpretation.8/10
One Of The Best Movies I Have Seen In My Whole Life..
posted on 26 Jul 2009I had originally went to the movies to see "Alexander" but because of it being a late-showing. I went to see "Finding Neverland." This movie was one of the best I have ever seen in my whole life. The movie touched me, made me feel good and made me look at the world in a different way.
The basic storyline was about J.M. Barrie and his life during the writing of Peter Pan. Johnny Depp was astonishing as Barrie. This was really, to me, his defining role. Kate Winslet was also, always as good as Sylvia. One actor that really surprised me was the little boy that played Peter. He has such expressive eyes and is so adorable. The only bad thing, is beyond the boys, Johnny and Kate, the rest of the actors sort of fade into the background.
The visuals were stunning and very whimiscal. It made me want to go to Neverland.
But overall, brilliant film, excellent, there isn't enough words to say how good this is.
Here comes an Oscar for Depp!!
posted on 25 Jul 2009This movie was absolutely amazing in many ways. I was fortunate enough to see it on a sneak preview even though it does not open until November. It really is about believing in yourself and taking things lighter--these are many identifiable themes. This is a movie you could take your grandmother to--really enchanting and thankfully squeaky clean!! A warning: bring the Kleenex--I cried quite a bit!It is all about J.M. Barrie's life and circumstances leading to his inspirations for writing "Peter Pan" and performing it as a stage play. Look for Hoffman in a rather small role, unfortunately, there is little of Captain Hook and it does not involve him--what a shame! However, his performance is still effective. Kate Winslet is, as always, very good as the mother of the boys. She has a touching subplot. Radha Mitchell is also good, although she plays the traditional "wife role", which gives her little to do more than pout. Julie Christie gives one of the better performances of the movie. You will fall in love with precious Freddie Highmore--easily stealing many scenes, and he is a formidable match with Johnny Depp. No wonder Depp fought for him to play Charlie in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". Finally, Johnny Depp is absolutely grand and believable as Barrie, mastering an accent, and using minimal makeup. He adds the perfect blend of childlike twinkle while also handling the adult role. If he is not in the Oscar race for Best Actor, I will be absolutely stunned, and I can usually pick them.While this sounds like some mush-melon review, it is not really supposed to be anything more than to praise the movie for what it is. I didn't really even want to see this movie, and I ended up loving it, which is rare for me.Anyway--go see it--you'll be glad you did!!
an instant classic
posted on 25 Jul 2009Finding Neverland is a true gem. Johnny Depp delivers a knockout performance as J.M. Barrie, a playwright searching for his lost inspiration. The movie's charming wit and insight shines through every character until the very last frame; its story is skillfully told through the simple experiences of everyday life that have the power to change one man's destiny. The captivating beauty and moving power of this film transcends time, taking its audiences straight to Neverland. It will make you believe in one man's vision; it is a journey that will be remembered for years to come. Don't miss this Golden Globe Best Picture nominee - it is truly a movie for the ages.
Awe Inspiring...
posted on 25 Jul 2009I have never posted on here, but have been a big fan of this website for quite sometime. I enjoy reading other comments, but have never posted one before, until I saw Finding Neverland. This movie left my in tears for several minutes after it ended. I watched it with friends and we were laughing at how emotional it got us. What an amazing journey this movie takes you on and it tugs at that inner child and vivid imagination we have in all all of us.Wonderfully acted, Johnny Depp is just brilliant. You are there with him, the whole time seeing what it is like to be in his head. Kate Winslet is wonderful in this movie. These two actors are simply that best we have in cinema.This is bar none the best movie I have ever seen in my life. I can never recall having a movie this much on my mind long after I have watched it. You must see this movie, I assure you it will land its way on your top 10 list.
Experience Childhood Wonders!.Go To Neverland
posted on 30 Aug 2009Suffering from severe flu I did not care what was on the DVD last night.Finding Neverland was a movie I knew little about and only the fact that two of my favourite actors, Johhnny Depp and Kate Winslet, starred in it led me to have any interest.Of course I knew well the Story of Peter Pan and had read the book myself and to my own children.But of J.M. Barrie I knew almost nothing. After the first fifteen to twenty minutes that it took me to settle into the world of James Barry comfortably, learn that he had a Scottish accent, accept that he slipped between the real and imaginary worlds with ease, and I was transported to another place.A gentle world that brought back to me my own childhood experiences and flights of fancy. I am no expert just a lover of movies and watch as many as I can.I cant remember a better film, a better performance than Johnny Depps and the young boy who played Peter.How on earth could a young child have the insight and intensity to convey what he did.Truly an amazing performance. No violence no sex no bad language.Wonderful sets and costumes, finely written dialogue brilliant acting cameos in the minor roles.I have no criticisms.It just got better and better. As for the last half an hour.I had stopped coughing for the first time in two days as I watched spellbound, but the tears that flowed as I felt so many tender and sad and wonderful things nearly choked me. Don't miss this film.Stay with it for the first 15 to 20 minutes and let yourself relax into a gentler time and the world of Never land. I'm going to watch it again today , and tomorrow....