It's Magical

Rating: Null/10 (9 April 2010)

That's the word that describes 'Finding Neverland'. I had seen it near the time of its release and waited so long to buy the special edition DVD as this is a must-have for my collection. Watching it again, I can easily say that this is among my all time favourite films. The magical world and the 'real world' juxtapose very well thanks to the mesmerizing score, the fantastic special effects, fine editing, the lyrical writing and poetic story itself and the superb direction.
J.M. Barrie has given us one of the most beloved children's novel and this movie beautifully captures the magic that Barrie created in his best works. There have been arguments that 'Finding Neverland' wasn't historically or factually accurate but that's not the point because this is an inspiration, not a depiction, of Barrie's life during the time he began writing 'Peter Pan' and had it been rather factual than imaginative, it would have lost its magic.
Johnny Depp is phenomenal as the creator of Peter Pan. The accent seems to have come very natural to him and his understated acting is outstanding. Kate Winslet too is terrific with her subtle performance. Her reaction to Barrie whenever he talks about Neverland and the fantasy world are remarkable. Julie Christie is very good and Dustin Hoffman provides some splendid comic relief with a laidback performance. Of the child actors, Freddy Highmore and Joe Prospero stand out.
Director Forster has earlier made the gripping 'Monster's Ball' and later on interesting movies like 'Stranger Than Fiction' and 'Stay' but without a doubt, 'Finding Neverland' is his greatest film to date. It's been a one of a kind movie experience. Magical.