You find a glimmer of happiness in this world, there's always someone who wants to destroy it.

Rating: 8/10 (30 April 2013)

Directed by Marc Forster
Starring Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet and Freddie Highmore
Written by Allan Knee and David Magee
'Finding Neverland' shares 'the story of J.M. Barrie's friendship with a family who inspired him to create Peter Pan.'
The vision of this film was great! It really captured the early 1900's. From the clothing to the sets, everything was spot on. The sets changing from fantasy to reality was great film-making! The imagination was easy to see and easy to relate to. The scene after the dinner sequence, when Johnny Depp and his wife slip through different doors, the sight of each open door is a real eye opener. Great editing! This film had great cinematography. Example was the kite scene as the camera acted as the kite and had a gorgeous god's eye view shot. Very creative. The quick shots throughout indicating Peter Pan references are fantastic, from the grandmother's hook to the boys flying through the window.
The story really hit me hard. Always believe. Never lose your inner child, great message and great writing. The origins of the 'Peter Pan' story was a great unfolding. It was like pulling a string of yarn from a ball, more and more gets revealed. The origin of 'Neverland' was phenomenal to experience. Really hits the heart. The story really shows that there can be such beauty and imagination in this world but there are also aspects that want to destroy it. The key is to keep believing.
Freddie Highmore stole the show for me. My eyes were glued to him throughout the film. He is such a cute little boy with such a mature acting performance. He can be adorable when necessary but he could also bring a serious performance when necessary as well. Johnny Depp brought great enthusiasm to the screen. It seems like the mood and emotions of the film revolved around his performance. His scenes with Highmore are my particular favorites. Have to acknowledge Kate Winslet's performance as well. Always lovely to see her on screen and her terrific acting skills is just icing on a terrific cake. Not necessarily a deep role but it's a great performance the film needed and plays a big factor in the story telling of 'Peter Pan.'
The music from the beginning showed you what kind of film you were about to watch. Upbeat and happy. It was great. The high tunes and pitches captured you in. The quick violins and piano playing was a great touch. The music brings a smile to your face as much as the writing and actors do. It's perfect. I loved every note. But it doesn't necessarily tell you the whole story. This film has its emotional/serious scenes and the music doesn't skip a beat.Marvelous!
'Finding Neverland' was beautifully written and orchestrated. Every aspect of the film seemed to come together to bring such an innocent and heart-warming tale. I recommend watching this film and not only once. Try to take something away from this picture, whether its personal or film-making related. There are so many messages sent, it's impossible to only react to only one.