“Pan” is a special-effects extravaganza, a rollicking ride into Neverland! “This isn’t the story you’ve heard before,” the narrator states in a voiceover at the beginning of this prequel, of sorts, to the legendary story of Peter Pan. Indeed. Blackbeard has been added to this story, and we learn that Peter Pan and Hook, who would be “Captain Hook” before the hook, were actually friends in the beginning.
Young Levi Miller shows great promise and talent as Peter Pan. He displays a range of emotions from anger toward the hoarding lead nun at the orphanage, to raw sadness and tears when he, sort of, sees his mother for the first time near the conclusion of the film. This story, about a boy who must “believe” in order to learn how to fly, is jam-packed with action and challenges at every turn for young Peter and his cohorts, after they are whisked away from the orphanage into Neverland.
The movie contains a bit of harsh language and fantasy-violence as well. It features themes of loyalty and belief that the impossible can become possible. We are delighted to award it our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal for ages twelve plus. So get on board the Jolly Roger! Fun and danger await Peter Pan in Neverland, but just the “fun” awaits those who see this movie!
