In a word: "magical"

Rating: 9/10 (2 November 2004)

Herewith we provide a spoiler-free report. I have seen the film twice now -- the first time, at the U.S. premiere in Shreveport, La. at the Peter Pan Centennial Celebration (which continues through December). The renovated turn-of-the- century Strand theater was a lovely setting for the film, providing consonance with the debut performance of the play 'Peter Pan' as it unfolded on screen.
Before the showing of the film, three writers were on stage: William Joyce (children's book author/illustrator and Shreveport native) and James Hart (screenwriter of 'Hook') also a Shreveport native), who conceived the concept of the Peter Pan Centennial in their hometown, joined by screenwriter David Magee, representing Miramax. Magee said the whole FN project took 6 years from when he started writing it. He made a point of telling the audience that this film was shot BEFORE Johnny Depp played Captain Jack Sparrow. The screenplay and directing were superb. Depp is perfect. Perfection. His performance is understated, touching, gentle, sincere  the camera, the director, the screenwriter et. al. make brilliant use of his eyes. The on-screen chemistry between Johnny and Freddie Highmore is immense -- Johnny has met his match, at last, in this sprite of a child. Now I have an even greater enthusiasm for Charlie & the Chocolate Factory. The other supporting actors do well, including Angus Barnett and Mackenzie Crook who later filmed Pirates of the Caribbean. In essence, the film should be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar and, of course, Johnny will be nominated for Best Actor. And this time, my dears, he may take home the statue. The marked contrast between Johnny's portrayal of this character and the next major character he played (Captain Jack) underscores the breadth of his range, and hopefully the Academy will appreciate that. After viewing the film, I had the privilege of attending the high- toned and fancy to-do (dinner), which included a Q & A session with Magee (the screenwriter). My question: 'What did Johnny Depp bring to the role that you did not put down on paper?' At that point, I was under the influence (of Depp as well as alcohol) but I remember that Magee replied Johnny gave a brilliant performance, as expected, with an undercurrent of sadness that was most appropriate for portraying J.M. Barrie. Ah, the Deppth! Upon viewing the film for a second time, I was moved just as much as the first time. One interesting note: the Elton John song that originally played over the credits is now GONE! I guess, after the director and the star both publicly stated they didn't care for it, Miramax decided to delete it. No big loss ... much as I like Elton John, I didn't think the song fit the film.