It’s true that this isn’t the same as the original Disney film from 1953, but it remains a thoroughly enjoyable adventure that really does stir up that childlike sense of wonder. "Peter Banning" is portrayed as a successful businessman who tends to overlook his family. When he travels with them from America to London to visit "Granny Wendy" (played by Dame Maggie Smith), they discover he was adopted, after she found him among the many orphans she cared for – including his own mother, "Moira" (Caroline Goodall). Following a mysterious kidnapping of his two children from their nursery one snowy night, Peter starts to recall events from before his adoption. With some magic and sparkle provided by "Tink" (Julia Roberts), he soon finds himself back in "Never Never Land," confronting his longtime enemy "Capt. Hook" (Dustin Hoffman) in a major showdown to rescue his children. Remaining doubtful about everything, he needs to rediscover belief, hope, and joy before he can even persuade the "Lost Boys" to help him on this risky mission. The film is genuinely entertaining; Hoffman delivers an excellent performance as the sophisticated villain with a hook, and even the child actors aren’t too irritating. There are some hilarious food fights, along with plenty of acrobatics and playful antics. I did have reservations about the idea of "the Pan" – it felt somewhat overly serious and threatening, considering Barrie's original story aims to remind us about what truly matters: relationships, faithfulness, affection, and especially fun! It does run a bit long; the start is slow, but once things get moving, it’s definitely worth watching for its humor that appeals to all ages. The musical score, composed by John Williams, is instantly familiar. I'm very fond of this story, and if this film helps keep its positive message alive (and also supports London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital), then that can only be a good thing. Second star to the right and straight on 'til morning...

On September 19, 2026
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