 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Finding Neverland
- Review Date: March 19, 2005
- PG
- Genre: Drama
- 2004
Common Sense Media says
Not about Peter Pan, and not a kids' movie.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
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.
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.
What families can talk about
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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AGE
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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AGE
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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AGE
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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AGE
A tad boring, but really sad/sweet
Aw, this made me cry! But it was so sweet, and I've always wondered who inspired Peter Pan (The real person committed suicide after a few of his brothers deaths- sad fact) The characters get you to feel along with them. I zoned in and out of the movie though, it bored me (no offence, it just did) The imagination was really strong too, which I love, I LOVE it when people use their imagination, because a lot of people today copy off of eachother and look down on personality- typical society. The ending was pretty sad, and Peter was really emotional because of the trama that happened in his life. And Barrie was there for him :)
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AGE
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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AGE
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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AGE
wonderful
A finely tuned film in every aspect.
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AGE
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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| Topics: | book characters, history |
| Studio: | Miramax |
| Director: | Marc Forster |
| Cast: | Freddie Highmore, Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet |
| Genre: | Drama |
| Run time: | 106 minutes |
| Theatrical release date: | November 12, 2004 |
| DVD release date: | March 22, 2005 |
| MPAA rating: | PG |
| MPAA explanation: | mild thematic elements and brief language |
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