111 minutes, Adventure/Fantasy, PG

There have been numerous renditions of J.M. Barrie’s much-loved character Peter Pan brought to life on the big screen over the enduring course of close to 100 years, and now we have the latest take of the boy who never grows up, as told in PAN. Selected to play the adventurous 12-year-old at the completion of worldwide auditions is Levi Miller, a newcomer hailing from our very own homeland, Australia. An invented origin story for Peter Pan and Captain Hook, Peter is plucked from his Orphanage during World War II in London and whisked away into the fairytale kingdom of Neverland. There, he will encounter the fun and the dangers of this magical new world where he discovers his true fate – to be the boy who becomes Peter Pan.

Being a prequel (of sorts) to the legend of Peter Pan, PAN certainly ticks the boxes in bringing original ideas for a strongly utilised character, some of which have caused quite a stir. In case you’ve not heard, there has been some controversy surrounding the casting of the Caucasian Rooney Mara in a role only ever played by Native American’s, in Tiger Lily. However, this casting choice turns out to be less of a concern in comparison to a number of others plaguing PAN. After a promising opening sequence, PAN fails to execute those original ideas in a satisfying enough manner. The magical kingdom of Neverland is missing a vital component – the magic. Throughout a bloated, magic-free middle act it becomes evident this family film is truly lacking another required element in order to be a success – humour. Even Hugh Jackman, who is a magnificent Blackbeard, seems to be aware of the script’s lack for a laugh, making the most of every comical opportunity there could be. As PAN continues on, struggling to live up to its early promise, an irritating, inexplicably self-important portrayal of Captain Hook by Garrett Hedlund and an ineffectual, meek showing of Mr Smee from Adeel Akhtar further damage the films limited enjoyment. As for young Levi Miller, he deserved better, in a fierce showing as Peter Pan. A real let down from the usually classy filmmaker who brought us ATONEMENT and HANNA, Joe Wright has disappointingly got too much of PAN, so wrong.

♥ ♥ ½

PAN – Film Trailer

Footnote to Parents
Some scenes may scare a younger crowd. The violence and fantasy scenes should not be too intense or strong for ages above 8, or so. Some mild language to also mention, but it is very infrequent.

Moviedoc wishes to thank Village Roadshow and Village Cinemas, Jam Factory for the invitation to the media screening of PAN.

Review by Moviedoc
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