I've been wanting to see the movie Finding Neverland since I first saw the trailer for it this past summer. Supposedly it came out on October 22, but it didn't make it to Seattle until the 30th. If ever there was a movie anyone could go see without any kind of offense whatsoever, this is it. It is completely clean.
The story is about J. M. Barrie, author of Peter Pan (Peter and Wendy, for those of you who have also read the book). I've heard that it isn't horribly accurate, but accuracy aside, it is beautiful. Not perfect, but still a beautiful, beautiful movie, utterly charming. Yet, like "Life Is Beautiful," it reveals pain as deep as grief itself. We as the audience laughed out loud and cried together as we ran the full gamut of emotion. It wasn't a packed house, but I wouldn't expect many people to assume they'd enjoy it. It's a quiet film and has been advertised as such. Hype would be difficult. But those who miss it are indeed missing out.
The acting was top-notch, even--or especially--the children. The youngest of the four boys was, well, young but cute. The eldest played his development
nicely. Poor Jack didn't get a huge amount of screen time. Peter, second youngest, was smashing. His potrayal of a wooden little boy, trapped in a shell of adulthood since his fathers death, was honest, entirely believeable as his emotions would break through, whether in forgetful play, anger or deepest
sadness.
The special effects were a bit odd but well in keeping with the story. In fact, they were really quite inventive, considering the desperate attempts at realism too many films try to take. The score carried the emotion well without being imposing.
I wouldn't be shocked to see some Oscar nominations from this film. In fact, I'll be surprised if it's overlooked.
Beautiful.
Posted by jonhanneman at November 1, 2004 7:37 AMi viewed the trailer and fell in love with it...
but it's not here yet, which wrecks.
i'll keep watching for it.