Depp Soften and Satisfies in Warm, Whimsical Story

The experience of going to the movies when we're younger is akin to the completely realized worlds we play in: it’s that kind of wonder. Rarely, though, do films today actually feature cultivating imagination as a theme. Even animated films instead focus on conflicts rooted in reality, apparently as part of satisfying the adults in the audience. Children lose their limitless fantasies soon, though, and celebration of imagination is welcome. This is what Marc Forster's new film is all about. Anchored by superb performances from Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet, Finding Neverland is a warm and rich family-oriented film that ranks as one of the best of the year.

Forster's previous work, such as the gritty and raw Monster's Ball, may not have suggested that a period piece that is at times comical was within his range. Johnny Depp, similarly, a great, cool actor with a tendency toward quirky, will surprise with his subdued yet commanding presence here. They have good material to build on as well. The script is the story of how Sylvia Llewelyn-Davies (Kate Winslet) and her four sons inspires J.M. Barrie to write his masterpiece play Peter Pan in early 1900's London. Dialogue can often be difficult but here it is real and well-connected to the theme. Moments of exquisite poignancy, particularly the end, will bring tears to the eyes, but laughs will definitely come at certain other moments. The plot does more than keep the audience’s attention while exploring the earlier discussed theme well: it is a wonderful study of familial and platonic dynamics acting as creative inspiration.

Building on this, Forster makes good use of the fantasy sequences, creating gorgeous images (some of which have to be computer-generated) and deftly cutting between the fantasy and the real-life view. One note: no one will want to miss the moment Barrie is inspired by Sylvia's haughty society mother (Julie Christie) to create Captain Hook. Forster also leads rhythmic editing and good staging. Take a look at the performances of the play Peter Pan within the film. Also, he does some nice things such as cutting between two similar arguments after the families have dinner together for the first time and I like the dissolves in the final moments.

Given the period of the story, the audience is in for some eye candy. The costumes by Alexandra Byrne are gorgeous, well-fitted and flattering to all the actors and with a feeling of inventiveness, too. The locations provide the perfect backdrop for them, lush greenery, fountains, and opulent interiors. The Barrie house, for example, is well-to-do but Sylvia's mother's is wealthy, as she is a Du Maurier. I also like the music, especially the end credits accompaniment.

Depp removes any hint of edginess out of his screen personae for this role, also adopting a Scottish brogue that never wavers. This performance should be Oscar nomination number two. Winslet, already a three-time nominee, believably plays a strong and capable mother, astounding in one scene with her son Peter (namesake of the character). What to nominate her for, this or Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind? Speaking of Peter, he is played by Freddie Highmore, a knockout child performer. Christie is just as good as expected, especially in a scene in which she sees the play. (You'll know it as soon as you see it.) And I haven't even mentioned Dustin Hoffman as Barrie's theatre producer and friend! What a cast.

Authorial inspiration, a celebration of the imagination, and drama wrapped in period piece with good direction and performances is why Finding Neverland is one of the best of the year. Even the title is perfect, as it immediately denotes a connection to Peter Pan and its creation, while also carrying a different, specific meaning for characters in the film. Bring the entire family and prepare to laugh and cry at a heartwarming tale.