More than just a movie ...

Rating: 10/10 (8 October 2008)

I watched 'Finding Neverland' one Sunday afternoon. I could have never imagined a more wondrous, poignant storytelling of behind-the-curtain events which inevitably led to the greatest achievement of James Barrie: the much treasured 'Peter Pan'.
The movie follows Barrie (Depp) who, faced with a failing marriage and a writer's block, serendipitously encounters and is captivated by the Davies' boys. He indulges them with his powerful passion and enthusiasm for plays, and becomes more than a father figure to them, and in doing so gains the inspiration for his greatest creation.
Johnny Depp's characterization of Barrie is worthy of applause. With a brilliant supporting cast, particularly Freddie Highmore and Julie Christie, the movie enraptures the audience, engaging them in its mellifluous narrative only to be left in a pensive mood for all its bittersweet and heart-wrenching moments.
This semi-fictional work of art isn't just a film, but a cogent story of cherishing the child within, capable of welling up the eyes of the driest soul.
Highly recommended.