Searching for the Promised Land.

Rating: Null/10 (5 March 2005)

Struggling playwright J.M. Barrie (another bravura role for Johnny Depp) gets inspiration from a young widow (Kate Winslet) and her four boys (led by Freddie Highmore) and the result is one of the most beloved children's stories ever conceived ("Peter Pan"). Fantastical cinematic experience with that pinch of comedy that mixes to form a demoralizing dramatic tale late that will leave you feeling numb all over. All-world performers Dustin Hoffman and Julie Christie are along for the ride, but seem more like guest stars than legitimate characters. "Finding Neverland" is a good looking picture, but ultimately the movie never does reach remarkable status. It just appears too British at times with Depp seeming somewhat out of place. The children do nothing noteworthy and this is a huge minus. They come off more as youthful brats from Carol Reed's "Oliver!" who truly never did grow up. One of those pictures that will likely be judged based upon your mood when seeing it. Tone-deaf direction hurts its cause. 4 stars out of 5.