Thomas Storai 
“Peter Pan & Wendy is a delightful Disney remake. It checks all the marks – it’s entertaining, touching and captures the spirit of the original film. David Lowery has avoided the mistake to make a copy-paste of the animated and instead he breathes new life into this classic story. And Jude Law is a scene stealer!”
Peter Pan is the latest Disney animated film to get the live-action treatment. This version is both based on the 1953 film and the 1914 novel Peter Pan and Wendy by J.M. Barrie. I was able to see the film earlier this week. It is now streaming on Disney Plus.
STORY
In my book, to make a good remake you cannot do the same thing all over again. You need to recapture the spirit of the original work while doing your own thing. And I think this is exactly what David Lowery did with Peter Pan and Wendy. He gives us a fresh new take on the classic story. The film is entertaining, it has some good humour but it is also quite touching. On top of that, the sword fights have the cool factor that make them fun to watch.
Furthermore, Lowery has added new depth to the story with the background story of Peter Pan and Hook. By doing that, there is so much more meaning as to why these two fight each other. There is also a contrast between the two and the ideology each represents. This version is actually more mature. But at the same time, it stays kid-friendly and can be enjoyed by the whole family. At its heart, Peter Pan and Wendy is a story about kids not wanting to grow up. However, on their journey they realize there is beauty in growing up and that doesn’t mean you loose who you are. It sends a meaningful message for kids.
The film is also well-paced. Despite a runtime under 2 hours, it doesn’t try to rush things. Indeed, it takes its time to introduce Wendy and her brothers before the story goes to Neverland. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best Disney live-action adaptations to date. And as such, it should have been given a theatrical release. I sincerely think it deserved to be seen on the big screen.
CAST
Moreover, Jude Law feels just right for the role of Captain Hook. He brilliantly portrays this ridiculous and yet threatening villain that we all love to hate. He delivers a layered performance that adds some depth to the character. And honestly, he is a scene stealer. But the real surprise is Alexander Molony as Peter Pan. He brings a lot of heart and energy to the character. In fact, he really is the Peter Pan we knew brought to life. Finally, Ever Anderson is also good as Wendy. She delivers a fierce performance.
VISUALS
Lowery has done a wonderful work with his cinematographer Bojan Bazelli and the VFX artists. The film looks stunning. It really feels like you are in a wonderful land. But, the London setting also feels true to how it was during that time period. Plus, there is a good balance of lighting and shadows which beautifully highlights the scenery. In addition, a great work has been done on the costumes.
SOUNDTRACK
Daniel Hart gives us an enchanting score which is exactly what you want for a fairy tale story like the one of Peter Pan and Wendy. It is a music that transports you with the characters into Neverland. On top of that, the pirates songs are absolutely great. They really feel like pirate songs.
VERDICT
Peter Pan & Wendy is a delightful Disney remake. It checks all the marks – it’s entertaining, touching and captures the spirit of the original film. David Lowery has avoided the mistake to make a copy-paste of the animated and instead he breathes new life into this classic story. Jude Law is just right for the role of Captain Hook, he is a scene stealer! Undoubtedly, it is one of the best Disney live-action adaptations to date.
Peter Pan & Wendy is now streaming on Disney Plus.
Collectables Editor at Future Of The Force.
Star Wars and Marvel specialist, anime expert
