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Very good movie (Careful, a couple small spoilers are coming)

I liked this movie a great deal. I enjoyed the actors performances a lot and I am glad to see such great actors in these roles. The story is well done as well with all of the original cartoon's aspects as well as some new ones. My favorite scene in the movie is where they're all at the table eating their imaginary supper. That is, until Peter starts a huge food fight. That's why it's enjoyable for kids because they all end up getting pies in the face and getting messy. I liked how they even threw pies at Tinkerbell. And it always makes me laugh to see Tinkerbell's bare feet get covered in messy pie and then she slams her bare feet down in the mess. I also find it hilarious when all of the cake and mess squishes up between her toes. Even Robin Williams stands in the mess on the table in his bare feet.
I like how actors will do lots of stuff like this. This is a very good film.

Good for adults and children

This movie is a good Peter Pan movie to watch with your family. It is geared towards children with an adult touch to keep even Mom and Dad interested. I recommend it for families to watch together.

A Spielberg Film That Just Sits There--It's Inert

Aside from "1941", HOOK is the only Steven Spielberg I have ever seen that I can comfortably live without in my video collection. To this day, a little over ten years after having first seen it, my impressions of the film have barely budged at all. There's lavish sets, huge crowds, spectacular special effects, and a trio of normally first-rate actors--namely Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman, and Julia Roberts. But there is simply no memorable movie-going experience given all this and the man behind the camera.

Spielberg has often cited his love for the Peter Pan story, and critics, both friends and enemies alike, have portrayed him as the real-life Hollywood version of Peter Pan. Thus, it was perhaps inevitable that he would make a film on the legend, resetting it in modern times. The problem is, however, he spent gargantuan amounts of money (at least $60 million) on sets, stars, and special effects that he forgot to put a real, effective story.

Hoffman, under all that make-up, makes for a very devious title character who kidnaps the kids of Peter Pan (Robin Williams), who is now Peter Banning, businessman. Indeed, Hoffman's performance is one of the highlights of this shockingly inert fantasy film; the legendary Maggie Smith's performance as Wendy is the other. Williams, normally a comic genius, gets very little to work with here; he is just plain bland. And Roberts tries to be cute as Tinkerbell, but instead gives probably the tackiest performance of her career. And the kids who play the Lost Boys are absolutely the most obnoxious bunch!

Not even John Williams' great score can save this staggering disappointment from Spielberg. HOOK only went to show that bigger isn't always better, especially if the story just sits there on the screen and does nothing. One expects more from Spielberg than this. Thankfully, he was able to recover yet again, as he had after "1941", going on to give us JURASSIC PARK, SCHINDLER'S LIST, and more.

EVRYONE WHO SAYS THAT THIS MOVIE IS BAD WOULDNT KNOW A GOOD MOVIE IF IT BIT THEM ON THE NOSE

When i first saw this movie i was blown away. This is the best movie every and no one/thing can change my opinion of that. All you adults out there who thinks that this movie is bad, grew up to fast and needs serious theropy

What If Peter Pan Grew Up?

Sometimes I find that it is quite refreshing and fun to revisit movies that I enjoyed as a kid, although at times the end result isn't quite how I remembered it. Some of the time when I revisit a movie that I loved so long ago, I discover that I no longer understand what it was that appealed to me back then. For example, the movie "Big" starring Tom Hanks; as a kid I loved this movie, but when I watched it again a couple of years ago on DVD, I couldn't understand what it was about the movie that I had enjoyed so much, other than the scene with the giant piano on the floor. All the humor and fun of the movie escaped me, and maybe it was because I don't have a clear memory of the 80's that I didn't enjoy the movie as much. I grew up in that decade, so I was young when this movie was initially released, therefore certain comedic references don't mean anything to me. One thing is for sure, whenever I do rewatch movies from my past, it's always like a new experience, because since I'm older now, I catch things that I didn't as a child, and the movies make more sense to me and I am able to give them a much more objective look than I did back then. So, when I see a movie that I remember enjoying as a kid and still enjoy it to this day, that is a true treat for me, and one recent example would be the 1991 release of Steven Spielberg's "Hook" starring Robin Williams ("Mrs. Doubtfire") and Dustin Hoffman ("Rain Man").

"Hook" is the what-if story of what would happen if Peter Pan (Robin Williams) chose to leave Neverland behind, and live out his life as a normal person, therefore growing older and even starting a family. However, just because Peter Pan has grown up and forgotten his many adventures in Neverland, one man hasn't forgotten the boy who could fly, and is determined to exact his revenge once and for all, that man is Captain Hook (Dustin Hoffman). After Hook kidnaps Pan's children, Tinkerbell (Julia Roberts) arrives to bring Peter back to Neverland and reintroduce him to the life he had left behind, and with the help of the Lost Boys, hopefully jog his memory so that Peter can once more remember how to fly, how to fight, how to crow, and ultimately how to be Peter Pan once again.

As a kid I remembered enjoying "Hook" when it arrived in theaters in 1991, so when I had the chance to watch it again recently on TV, I was curious to see whether the film would still hold the magic and wonder that it had for me back then. And I am happy to say that not only was it still as entertaining as it was back then, but I really enjoyed the story even more than I remembered previously. The reason was because I was able to appreciate what the extremely talented Steven Spielberg ("Jurassic Park") had created by examining the implications of what would happen to Peter if he chose to one day grow up and leave Neverland, and how the character would regain the heroic side of his life that he had forgotten. After I watched the movie again, I found myself wondering why some critics didn't like the film. Was it because they didn't like the 'what if' approach to Peter Pan growing up and forgetting his life in Neverland? Or was it that the somewhat more adult storyline didn't seem to jive with the original kid's story written by J.M. Barrie, at least it didn't in their opinions? Or did they think that for a Robin Williams movie, "Hook" just wasn't funny enough, and focused too much on drama and not enough on Robin Williams' obvious mastery of comedy? Whatever the reasons, I'll never understand why some disliked the movie, but I do know that I still enjoy it no matter what they may say.

I found the prospect of examining what would happen to Peter outside the realm of Neverland over an extended period of time was quite interesting, and was something that Spielberg and company dealt with in a very real, mature manner. Even though it was a kid's movie, the film contained many adult themes such as fear of losing one's family through selfishness, fear of the strange and unknown, and also rediscovering one's true self that had been buried for so long by the hardships faced in the real world. These elements were spread all over the storyline of the movie, but were done so in such a way that it wasn't overtly obvious, and therefore distracting and confusing to children. However, these elements weren't just treated in such a way that adults would find them insulting either, the mixture of this being a kid's movie, but also a drama with adult themes was handled surprisingly well.

The cast was extremely talented, and the two lead actors proved to be the ideal choices for their roles, even though at first glance they didn't necessarily appear to be. I for one wouldn't have thought of Robin Williams as a possibility to portray Peter Pan in any incarnation, but he handles him with just the right blend of drama and humor that made him into an intriguing, ultimately heroic, yet conflicted character. He is a man that wants desperately to save his children, but wants to hide from the possibility that he may have been the savior of Neverland known as Peter Pan, who had abandoned his heroic post so many years before, and that his actions in the past led to his current predicament in the present, and may ultimately change his future forever. Dustin Hoffman was more of an ideal choice to play Captain Hook, and one that frankly made more sense before I had even seen the movie. He gave audiences a Hook that was evil, scheming, and vengeful, but was also lonely and at times suicidal (a surprising aspect to the character, to say the least). To the film's credit, because it was by all accounts intended to be a kid's movie, the topic of suicide as contemplated by Hook, was only briefly touched upon and done so in a humorous way that would not offend or disturb any of the audience. The supporting cast was equally talented, creating characters that were just as memorable as the primary players. Julia Roberts ("Pretty Woman") as Tinkerbell and Bob Hoskins ("Michael") as Smee were both incredibly fun to watch, and their interactions with their respective counterparts (Peter Pan and Captain Hook) were some of the most engaging dramatic, and at times humorous, moments in the film. The cast members that comprised the Lost Boys were surprisingly very good for being so young. They played each of their characters as fun loving kids, who knew how to have a good time, but were also aware that theirs was a life full of danger and that one wrong move could mean their end. And rounding out the cast was Maggie Smith ('Harry Potter' series) as the grown up Wendy, who has devoted her life to providing a solid home for orphans and is the person that reintroduces Peter to his heroic past, and puts him on the path to rediscovery and hopefully the safe return of his children.

"Hook" is an extremely fun and interesting film to watch, as it deals with the prospect of what if Peter Pan actually grew up, and what would happen if his past came back to haunt him in a very real and unique way. It's a movie experience that is fun for the whole family, and is full of high-flying action, special effects that were cutting edge in 1991 (surprisingly they still hold up rather well to this day), and an engaging story that brings out the inner child in all of us.

"Hook" is rated PG for violence.

Somewhere out there

My spoiler is not directed to the movie itself, but to so many of the comments I have read about his movie. I saw this movie at the movie theater when it was first released and have seen it many times since then. It seems that many of the comments about his movie are much like Siskel and Ebert's old arguments, Gene leaning more to the technical merits of movie making and Roger leaning towards entertainment value. The actors alone provide tremendous entertainments value in a place where life and death since to matter even less than it does on this planet now, if that is possible. How Dustin Hoffman, who plays the indomitable Captain Hook, ranges from whimsical to cold-hearted with the flick of his ruffled wrist, "Kill them...kill them all." The movie raises and answers questions about the power of the mind, the will of the spirit and the transforming loves which comes from the heart. Put yourself in the mind of Peter's children and ask yourself how you would react after finding out Peter Pan IS your father.I highly recommend this movie for young and old, if only it reminds us to pay more attention to those who are most precious to us.

Poignant fun movie about family issues.

The movie Hook creates helpful insight about the importance of family.It suggests that parents can become better parents by getting back in touch with their own inner child and by giving their children the attention and love they need to thrive. It also points out some important issues about the negative influence of Hook who tried to alienate Peter's son Jack against his own Dad. This is an issue that comes to the fore when divorced parents try to alienate their children against the other parent. An enjoyable and sensible movie for the whole family regardless of age.

All Around Brilliance

People are Dumb. This movie is GOOD. All of the little things in it are amazing,and is my FAVORITE movie of all time. To say that this movie is dreadful is completely foolish. The movie is remarkably funny and is wonderful in almost all aspects. Dustin Hoffman and Bob Hoskins and amazing together. Smee is maybe my favorite character, next to Tootles and the little fat Lost Boy who rolls into a ball. As I said before all the little things in it are hilarious, such as every time Robin Williams turns around while still being Peter Danning, he turns with chest inflated and hands on hips( acting as Peter Pan). AMAZING. Also Glen Close is a pirate and that alone is reason enough for the movie to be rated a 10. Not to mention Rufio. Also amazing. the dialog between Robin Williams and Rufio while at the dinner table is wonderfully scripted and deserves to be watched over and over and over again. Robin Williams as Peter Pan was a wonderful choice because of his childlike acting ability. The Music. The Music is another reason the movie is so wonderful. John Williams is able to compose a score that can make you feel all of your emotions at once. All-together "Hook" is a wonderful piece of cinema that can be enjoyed by both parents and children.

What if Peter Pan grew up?

'Hook'is one of my favorite movies that I watched during my childhood, and even watching it again after so many years, I still cannot replace it for any of the recent movies about Peter Pan! I think it is an absurd that here in IMDb this wonderful movie is rated only 5,8! Until today, the best captain James Hook played is from this movie( with a great work of Dustin Hoffman) and so is Tinkerbell(Julia Roberts). The whole idea about Peter Pan being an adult,married, with kids, in our modern world is very original.Peter needs to rescue his children that were kidnapped by the captain James Hook, who wants revenge,but first Peter needs to remember how is to be a child again and make his imagination and memories to work.Hook is a masterpiece and I would really recommend it for people from all ages.:)

I suffer from acute peter pan syndrome

I have decided that every person that does not like this movie has no inner child.that is all.

Adventure just screams

its a great film, although for kids its quite funny in places and robin williams is great in it!! it just makes you want adventure and to get out of the hell hole that your life is. The kids are great actors and Captain Hook just totally makes the film! Great quotes and Julia Roberts is amazing in it! overall a great film

Peter Pan doesn't want to grow up? Well he has now!

What would happen if Peter Pan fell in love? This movie goes into detail about the boy who never wanted to grow up but does for love anyway. (Robin Williams - Peter Banning/Peter Pan) comes back to see Wendy (Maggie Smith) and finds out that she has grown up and is now a grandmother with a granddaughter whom Peter decides to give a real kiss to, and then falls in love with. Leaving Neverland, Peter is returned to time and begins to age, having children of his own. (Dustin Hoffman / Capt. James S. Hook) has decided he wants a showdown with the legendary Peter Pan and so orders for the abduction of his children to lure Peter back to Neverland. Upon finding out Peter has grown up, both the pirates and the lost boys are dubious as to whether or not it is Peter and whether or not he can cut it when it comes to fighting, playing and crowing, but Tinkerbell (Julia Roberts) arranges for 3 days to get Peter in shape. Peter finally gets back into the spirit, but not before Hook brainwashes Peters son into becoming a pirate. The lost boys rally behind their leader of old but in the fight (Dante Basco / Rufio) is killed. Hook is finally slain and Peters children are saved, and everyone gets to go back home, leaving the lost boys and Tink' sad but with a new leader ... ends on with an upbeat feel, nice feel-good movie for the kids.

Some reviewers just think too much!

I don't know what movie all those reviewers (for a living) were watching, but this movie is FUN!Just get a kid or two and sit down and watch. I dare you not to laugh.

Steven Spielberg is one of my all-time favorite directors, BUT...

...when you propose the ultimately silly story idea of "what would happen if Peter Pan grew up?", even the legendary director cannot save the inevitable answer from being...

WHO CARES!!!

Nostalgia Factor

I was drawn by Steven Spielberg's vision of Neverland. An impressionist and impressive vision of Peter Pan's surroundings. Spielberg tries to wake in each of us the child within, or at least make us remember it. It had a bit nostalgia effect on me, a very deep feeling of innocence. In this movie you can feel a kind of spirit floating, you feel the weight of the past, the legend. I mean, you feel like reading Peter Pan's stories since you where a kid and now you get the chance to know Neverland, where all those stories happened a long time ago. It is a very good feeling of fantasy and Spielberg's magic! I won't say it is a "must see", it's not. But for some people like me who can feel that "magic" in the movie it is a very good movie worth to see more than one time and to be remembered. Excellent directing! Good actors, specially Robin Williams and of course, Dustin Hoffman. Great soundtrack, the eternal John Williams.I understand the fact why some people hated the movie, if you never seen it i would recommend it. The feeling it had on me made me love it, the same effect on you may make you hate it, but i hope you get much pleasure as i did.

One of the worst pictures I've ever seen

The idea for the film is wonderful, but the reincarnation of Peter Pan as an adult just didn't fly with me. I disliked the acting of Robin Williams in this film and kept imagining that someone, such as Kevin Kline, would have been far superior. Dustin Hoffman, on the other hand, as Captain Hook was ingenious. I realize that this film is primarily for children, but the one-liners, dreadful sets, the "food" fight, and those three kissing mermaids didn't even seem appropriate for children. The talent that made up the film was entirely wasted and I can't imagine why any major name, such as Meryl Streep, would waste their time doing cameo performances. My feeling is that if you are a fan of the original "Peter Pan", you are much better off sticking with that rather than viewing this bit of nonsense. Why writers and directors want to "update" films/books/plays that were masterpieces is beyond me. I'm thinking of films such as "Scarlett", the story of Scarlett O'Hara AFTER "Gone With the Wind". Sequels and prequels are mostly not up to the caliber of the original film/book/play. I would not want my children to see "Hook"; I'd much prefer they read the original. As for adults, they should stay clear of the picture entirely unless they don't mind wasting one and three-quarter hours of their lives.

Hooked on HOOK

If you grew up with Peter Pan and are Panned Out, give this movie a chance. You won't regret it.


If you say Peter who? See this movie!

Robin Williams takes us on a roller coaster from high comedy to serious acting.

Music: John Williams in great form. Lots of fun in this score as John Williams pens yet another materpiece. John Williams seems to only compose for great movies and this is no exception.

Highly recommended for all ages. Just plain fun!

5-Stars

Never Never Land in the 1990's

My African American and Native American sons are hooked on Peter Pan. They wear their Pan and Hook costumes almost every day, fly a pirate flag over their beds and play with toy pirate ships. They love this version of Hook because the lost boys look their friends (unlike the all white boys and racist portrayal of Indians in the Disney cartoon). I disagree that ethnic diversity is "politically correct" or "contrived and cheapening". Ethnic diversity simply reflects the reality of our lives. When I discovered that Hook was out-of-print I found a copy on ebay.com

Slow moving and overlong

This movie could have been great but it is far from it.
It is probably one of the worst movies Robin Williams
and Dustin Hoffman ever made. It is slow moving and
about an hour too long. Most of the scenes with the Lost
Boys could have been eliminated.

A classic!

I dont get it. . . And I know many are along with me! I LOVE this film. It is one of my all-time favs along with Edward Scissorhands! When I saw this movie in the theaters years ago, I remember EVERYONE LOVING THIS FILM. All the reviews, all the journalists on TV , all the freaking audience members LOVED this movie. . . So why all the flake now? It makes no sense. I remember someone saying how this movie flopped at the box office. WHAT?! HOOK made 300 million worldwide! even by today's standards that's AWESOME!!!! The acting in this movie is exellent. The music is wonderfull ( i bought the soundtrack ) and the story is classic. And yes, sorry to disappoint, but Dustin made a much BETTER Hook than Jason Isacks!!!!! Nuff said.