Pan the Man flies again in this latest version of Peter Pan starring Jeremy Sumpter as Pan and Jason Isaacs as Captain Hook.
Already considered a nominee for an Oscar visual effects the world of Never Never Land is brought to life through the use of CGI developed landscapes but the visual effects fall short as Wendy and her brothers learn to fly as obvious green-screen techniques are used to propel them through the air. As well as the lush lands of Never Never Land are just as obvious creations of visual effects that they became far from impressive.
One intriguing bit on this installment that it sticks to the tale told many years ago by J. M. Barrie of the boy who wouldn’t grow up – and the girl whose family insists that she must.
Peter Pan focuses on the Pan vs. Hook aspect and builds upon Pan’s search for emotional attachment to something other than the idea of fun and eternal youth.
The storyline for the most part stays the same as renditions told before so there is no use in going into it, but there is one highlight to be found, the acting of Jeremy Sumpter.
The young actor plays the role of Peter Pan perfectly, adding life to a movie that would be lifeless without his portrayal of the insubordinate young man set on staying young forever even though his heart desires a family.
Peter Pan will be great for the kids over Christmas, even if the huge CGI alligator does scare them a bit. Since the effects are nothing to write home about when compared with other films now days it isn’t a necessity to see this one on the big screen, but it may be one of your only lighthearted options for the holiday season.
