A smart and entertaining movie

Rating: 8/10 (25 December 2004)

Finding Neverland is well crafted and emotionally involving throughout, succeeding across several dimensions. It realistically depicts a failed marriage, as well as a crucial stage in childhood development; it also explores the mechanisms of psychological escape. The movie has a lot going for it including entertaining production numbers -- everything but a proper ending. After ninety minutes of trusting the viewer, Neverland resorts to some heavy handed manipulation, tugging on heartstrings already pulled taught by a story that has unfolded seamlessly up to that point. This has the unwanted effect of making the viewer feel silly and a bit used for having experienced the expected emotions all along. While a little off-putting, it's a forgivable error. Generally a smart and entertaining movie.