An entertaining drama that plays fast and loose with the facts

Rating: 8/10 (10 March 2008)

This is the story of J.M. Barrie, the man behind Peter Pan, a fictional figure who, true to form, hasn't aged since his inception over a hundred years ago.
The cast is well-assembled, with Depp delivering a top-notch performance as always. That's not to disparage the others, including film veterans Julie Christie and Dustin Hoffman. Even the child actors, particularly Freddie Highmore, are convincingly authentic.
The directorial style is accomplished, with Marc Forster quietly adding to a resume of diverse and challenging films. Here the action flits seamlessly from fantasy to fact, often within the same scene.
Let it be known that the script deviates freely from fact. While I normally can't stand screenwriters 'improving' history this film is not an egregious offender since the script is mostly devoid of cliché. One of the most interesting questions that the characters are confronted with is how to maintain innocence in the face of life's trials and tribulations. This is not a meaningless Hollywood fluff piece, it is a film that attempts to provoke thought while it entertains.
If you're looking for historical accuracy, look elsewhere. Otherwise, just enjoy this film for what it is.