There should be a standard formula in Hollywood; the caliber of a movie depends on if Johnny Depp is in it. After searching for weeks, I finally got a chance to see Finding Neverland, and boy, was it worth it. The story of James Barrie, and the family that inspires the creation of Peter Pan, is a marvelous tale of the power of imagination. Filled with captivating performances by Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet, as well as beautiful visuals and score, the film easily shines as one of the best this year.
After a dreadful opening reception to his most recent play, James Barrie (Depp) finds himself searching for a story that will help revive his career. While in the park the morning after opening night, he happens upon the Davies family in the park. The Davies’ are four boys who recently lost their father, and widowed mother, Sylvia (Winslet). Barrie forms a friendship with the family, and develops an especially close relationship with the second youngest, Peter (Freddie Highmore) who is still grieving over the loss of his father. The relationship is not without turmoil however, as James’ marriage to Mary (Rahda Mitchell) begins to deteriorate and Sylvia’s mother (Julie Christie) grows tired of James “invading” their lives. The final product is a masterful tale that is inspirational, yet surprisingly bitter-sweet.
Johnny Depp proves himself as one of the master performers of our time, with an Oscar-worthy performance that just might beat out Jamie Fox’s Ray Charles. Finally, Depp plays a man who is not overly quirky, but is instead searching for himself. It is refreshing to see him in a more “mainstream” role, and not surprisingly he excels. Kate Winslet also delivers an amazing performance as the widow who dreams of happiness. (Frankly, I see her as a dark horse Oscar contender as well). I had also heard a great deal about young Freddie Highmore, who plays Peter. They say Depp and Winslet recommended the child to play the title character in Tim Burton’s upcoming Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I believe it, as this child provides a surprising amount of depth in his persona. He handles himself like a seasoned vet on-screen, and has a great deal of chemistry with Johnny. The rest of performances are equally amazing, enhancing the vibrant story.
The directing is such a high point in this film as well. Marc Forster creates a magical world where reality and imagination begin to blur. The film has a slight Tim Burton feel to it, but not as elaborate. With beautiful scenery and whimsical cuts the film is breathtaking watch. Little innocuous things, like a cup of coffee and mailing stamps, begin to add to the beauty as well. The final product is something that is hard to describe. It begins to feel like a fairy tale.
Finding Neverland is quite possibly the best film of the year, narrowly beating out Ray. It’s magical, and Depp delivers his best performance since Captain Sparrow. The true story of Peter Pan is just as magical as the lad himself, and after seeing the story, you can’t help but want to find Neverland yourself.
4 OUT OF FOUR STARS
Overall Summary- Yep, it’s better than Ray. Yep, Johnny Depp is amazing. Yep, it’s my new favorite film of the year. Go see it (if you can find it).
