This film presents a very positive message and is a lovely film, overall. However, younger children may become bored but if they are interested, I see no harm in it.
Finding Neverland
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Don't expect Peter Pan...This is about the author.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 11–13
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Finding Neverland was written by Nell Minow
Parents need to know that this really isn't a kids' movie. It's about J.M. Barrie and his relationship with four boys who have lost their father before the movie begins and who lose their mother before it ends. Barrie's marriage breaks up because (among other things) his wife has a new boyfriend. It will probably disappoint younger kids who come expecting something Peter Pan-like. If you do go with your kids, you might talk about sources of imagination and creativity.
Families Can Talk About
Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
- Families can talk about why Barrie wanted to play with the boys and why he was sorry to see them grow up. What is the best part of being a child? What is the best part of being a grown-up? Also, for aspiring young writers, what adventures in your own life can lead to your next great story?
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More on Finding Neverland
What’s the Story?
The story of the man who wrote about the boy who would not grow up has inspired this movie, loosely based on Peter Pan author James M. Barrie's relationship with the Davies boys and their mother. Playwright Barrie (Johnny Depp) has staged a recent flop, his producer (Dustin Hoffman) is getting impatient, and his wife (Radha Mitchell) finds him frustratingly distant. Then, Barrie meets the Davies children. Captured by their boyish imagination and touched by their loss, he begins to tell them stories and is eventually inspired to write a play about a boy who stays young forever. His relationship with the boys causes trouble with their grandmother (Julie Christie), who worries it will ruin her daughter(Winslet)'s chances for re-marriage. It further strains his marriage. Outsiders wonder if there is something improper going on. But all Barrie wants is to play pirates and Indians. The boys help him find enchantment -- they show him Neverland, and he shows it to the world.
Is It Any Good?
The movie has some lovely images. Barrie and his wife open their separate bedroom doors. Behind hers is a bed. Behind his is...Neverland. And as in the timeless play itself, the pleasures of endless childhood in a world in which we lose a little more youth every day are movingly portrayed.
Depp, Winslet, and Christie give touching performances, but the question for a movie like this is whether it is as illuminating or entertaining as the work we see created. In this case, the answer is no. The fantasy sequences have more power and the glimpses of the play itself are more appealing than the framing story. You keep wanting to tell them to get out of the way so that you, too, can get back to Neverland.
Movie Details
Studio: Miramax, Director: Marc Forster
Run time: 106 minutes
Theatrical release: 11/12/2004, DVD release: 03/22/2005
MPAA Rating: PG for mild thematic elements and brief language
Run time: 106 minutes
Theatrical release: 11/12/2004, DVD release: 03/22/2005
MPAA Rating: PG for mild thematic elements and brief language
Our Members Say
See all 35 member reviews
Most Recent Reviews
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I rate this title on for age 9 and give it
- My highlights are:
A very touching movie
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I rate this title on for age 9 and give it
- My highlights are:
A very touching movie
This film presents a very positive message and is a lovely film, overall. However, younger children may become bored but if they are interested, I see no harm in it.
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I rate this title iffy for age 11 and give it
Need to watch movie
All I can say is that this film was truly amazing. It was very touching and sad, this movie will definitely bring tears to your eyes. All thanks to the wonderful performance of talented cast. Johnny (Depp) does some superb acting (as usual) and Freddie (Highmore) was very impressive. But this film isn't about Peter Pan, it's about the author of the wonderful classic. So, don't expect any Pirates or fairies, although they do a stage play in the movie, and it has some of the characters from Neverland. Anyways, this film is really awesome, and I recommend it. But be prepared with some Tissue ;)
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I rate this title on for age 8 and give it
It's the only Johnny Depp movie I like. The acting is wonderful, though it's a bit sad.
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I rate this title pause for age 12 and give it
It's so sad!
The mom dies but I don't know why! When I saw the credits, they had sad music!
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I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
absolutely wonderful
In this one of a kind film johnny depp is at his best. I found it to be very well done with wonderful acting. It really is a good movie but not to much for younger kids, i only say this because they would more than likely say something like "mommy im bored" or perhaps "can we rent barney goes to space instead?" no such movie. Admittedly i cried my eyes out at the end but as i see it all good movies make us cry.
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I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
absolutely wonderful
In this one of a kind film johnny depp is at his best. I found it to be very well done with wonderful acting. It really is a good movie but not to much for younger kids, i only say this because they would more than likely say something like "mommy im bored" or perhaps "can we rent barney goes to space instead?" no such movie. Admittedly i cried my eyes out at the end but as i see it all good movies make us cry.
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I rate this title on for age 8 and give it
Brilliant. A must see for Johnny Depp fans
I watched this movie on a plane when I was nine and I actually enjoyed it. Dont expect an entire Peter Pan movie. This, in a way, a behind the scenes look.
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
wonderful
A finely tuned film in every aspect.
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
A sophisticated movie fit for 11 and older
Finally ... a movie I can take my 12-year-old to that has more substance than drama queens and princess-wanna-bees but isn't full of inappropriate behaviors and language. A sophisticated and magical movie that makes you think. Well worth the ticket price. There is some content that may be a little too sad for those under 10. :)
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I rate this title pause for age 0 and give it
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
A classic.
A brilliant movie with outstanding acting, use of color, storyline and emotion. The plot moves along graciously and effortlessly, captivating you and making this movie impossible to stop watching. I cry everytime at the end. Note that it contains many thematic elements that younger children may not understand or like.
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
A very touching movie!
I really enjoyed this movie. The acting is very well done, especially by Johnny Depp. I cried at the end, and some parts are a little heavy. Kids under the age of 8 would probably be confused by some parts, but for people older, I think they will probably love this movie.
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
Finding Neverland was a great story and many well love it.
A great film but may disapoint people in the way it was done.
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
Amazing Movie!!!!
This movie was extremely well written well performed. This wonderful movie is a must-see for anybody 7 or older. There were a few sad scenes, so be prepared for any one 7 or younger to cry. Overall, this movie was an A++++++!!
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
A Good Story
Judging by the promos, this movie looks like it might be for children but it really isn't. While I enjoyed the story, sad ending and all, this movie will be too slow and emotional for pre-teens and children. Beautiful photography and special effects. Great acting by Johnny Depp.
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I rate this title pause for age 0 and give it
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
sad but magical
Beautifully made, it truly captures the essence of childhood imagination but also the essene of childhood fears. This movie is true to life, vivid and engrossing. Even those who generally don't enjoy sad endings will not be put off by this one--it has the feeling of fulfillment and is full of hope. It's also an unusual take on the standard Peter Pan story--Johnny Depp is wonderful as J.M. Barrie. Recommended for ages 11 and up. A serious movie, may be a bit slow for younger kids, but overall brilliantly done.
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I rate this title pause for age 0 and give it
good but sad
The characters suffer from tragic events.. and it especially gets me because they are kids. Movie deals w/ serious issues (divorce, occupation, death), but plays down the severity a lot.
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Ratings at a Glance
| 67% | of parents say it gives kids positive messages |
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