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____Fans
of Johnny Depp have always known that
he is a versatile actor, rich in talent
and method, as well as one who chooses
roles that fit his style regardless
of whether or not the film in question
will be a huge successes. Well, to them
I say: right movie, right role and right
time.
____One
day someone besides
myself will nail down in words what
it is that draws a following to Depp.
I could say that he has become a more
seasoned actor as time goes on, but
there has always been a certain appeal
that has gone unchanged since "Nightmare
on Elm Street" and "21 Jump
Street". Whatever it is, I'm glad
he ended up in "Finding Neverland",
where he does a great job convincing
the audience that whatever J. M. Barrie
was as a person, it must have been (or
should have been) exactly like Depp's
characterization.
____The
tale begins after Barrie (Depp) finds
himself a playwright with a waning career
with an unstable wife. By chance he
meets a widower named Sylvia Llewelyn
Davies (Kate Winslet) and her four sons.
Through his encounter with this family
he develops a yearning to be apart of
their lives, and discovers the inspiration
to write what would become the familiar
"Peter Pan".
Barrie's relationship with Sylvia and
her boys is the essence of what good
intentions should be, and only once
in the movie are his intentions questioned
by an outsider in an out-of-place modern-day
suspicion. The story portrays the constant
struggle of man who means so well, yet
questions the result of his interference
in others' lives. At times comedic and
uplifting, "Finding Neverland"
also exploits the dark and baneful sides
of life.
____One
of my favorite aspects of "Finding
Neverland" is the nearly static
characterization of J.M. Barrie contrasting
the dynamism of the supporting roles.
This switch in the common storytelling
technique
is such an excellent tool. Kate Winslet
and her on-screen boys are exceptional,
and their portrayal as a hard-luck family
in need of a father-figure is powerful.
____The
movie takes us on a journey between
reality and an imaginary world, with
no attempts to blur the distinction
between the two. The end result of this
duel world is beautiful and touching.
Exceptionally acted, written, and in
all ways portrayed, "Finding Neverland"
is sure to tighten the Oscar race this
year. Categorically, it is not an biopic,
like "Ray" or "The Aviator",
yet is not entirely just a drama or
comedy. Its style is distinct. Like
the play "Peter Pan", "Finding
Neverland" is a story for all ages
that will endure for a very long time
to come.
-K. Tanaka
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