Honest and touching film, with masterful performance by Depp.

Rating: 10/10 (19 November 2005)

For quite a few years now it has been common knowledge that Johnny Depp is one of the best actors (young or old), if films. He has been known and admired for his work in unusual roles, and turning in some really extraordinary work. "Pirates of the Caribbean", "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" and of course any of his Tim Burton films. Most have been slightly offbeat, but they have all been splendid portrayals of characters that other actors obviously shy away from. If he never made another film, he should be recognized, rewarded and praised for this.
Thank God he's made "Finding Neverland". He has taken on what may appear to be a more conventional role, and turned it into a masterpiece of understanding and communicating who J.M. Barrie was and what a piece of theater and belief can mean to an individual, or to a family. I can't think of another actor who could transport an audience so easily. To see his Barrie is to understand the desire to help "transport" yourself or loved ones to a place that they can believe in.
The rest of the film is nothing short of exquisite. Marc Forster has crafted a superb film, and while moving some facts around, never gives the story a sense of artificiality.
The rest of the cast is superb as well. Especially Winslet as Sylvia Llewelyn Davies and Freddie Highmore as Peter Davies.
This film is a gem, and is to be treasured.
10 out of 10