Movie Review: Revisiting Neverland in "Pan"

"Pan" takes us back to simpler times where pirates and ships, and mermaids and fairies conquer different storybooks that become figments of every child in the old days... It's visually- stimulating effects, action sequences, and exciting adventures are very engaging for children and the young at hearts. A spectacle array of moving storybook pages! 

There is excitement on how the plot slowly unravel details of the loved Neverland adventure with Peter before he became the Pan. The stunning visual display and theatrical movements of the cast has made this film a wonderful masterpiece primarily targeting the younger audiences. The whimsical simplicity of the plot reminds you of the adventure that we all had in our minds while reading the pages of the book where the film was based.

There has been several play of high-contrasting elements in the film "Pan." The vibrant colors of the sets in Neverland are contrasting from the subdued and cold chroma keys of the war infested areas in Europe. The innocence in the way Peter acted and behaved which is opposite the dark and destructive nature of the pirate Blackbeard. The connection between the younger Hook and Tiger Lily, Peter and his friendship with Hook, and the prophecy of Neverland and what really happened to Peter's mom - are just a few of the things to look forward to in this film.

The short but captivating scene in the Mermaid lagoon with the infamous crocodile was one of our favorites. There are several scenes with a kick that kids would surely love. We couldn't even contain the reactions we have on some scenes since we watched it in 3D. 

Australian child actor Levi Miller makes his Hollywood major feature film debut in Warner Bros. Pictures' action adventure “Pan” after being chosen in a worldwide search for the central role of Peter.

In the film, Peter is a smart and rebellious 12-year-old boy who has spent his entire life in a dreary London orphanage called the Lambeth Home for Boys, a truly Dickensian dwelling run by a heartless nun. That he still holds out hope that his mother will return for him speaks to the strength of his spirit, and when he finds himself swept away to a fantastical world of pirates, warriors and fairies, his determination to be reunited with her is only strengthened.

Newcomer Levi Miller Nabs the Lead Role of Peter in "Pan"

Though the character was created more than a century ago, Wright says, “This is Peter Pan for 2015, a complete reframing of the story as we all know and love it. It’s Peter’s origin story and a classic hero’s journey set in a big, beautiful, bold world.

Hugh Jackman, Garrett Hedlund, Rooney Mara, Amanda Seyfried and Levi Miller Explores the Origin Story of Peter "Pan"

Jackman's Blackbeard is the pirate all pirates fear, the most formidable presence in all of Neverland, and master of a vast mining camp in the sky. At times grand, at others diabolically cruel, Blackbeard kidnaps children from other worlds to mine for the priceless pixie dust with properties Blackbeard has reason to covet. Blackbeard himself fears only two things: the increasing scarcity of the pixie dust and a prophecy that tells of a boy who will vanquish him – a boy who can fly.

Hugh Jackman Joins Dragon Parade and Meets Hong Kong Fans for "Pan"

With mysterious origins and the swagger of a pirate-in-the-making, James Hook is among the captive dust miners at ruthless pirate Blackbeard's camp in Neverland. Working alongside Peter (Levi Miller), he observes the boy’s unique abilities and together they stage a daring escape that propels them into the adventure of a lifetime deep into Neverland.

Garrett Hedlund is James Hook, Future Captain, in "Pan" 

Pan (2015)
PG-13  |  111 min  |  Adventure, Family, Fantasy  |  8 October 2015 (Philippines)

Our ratings: ★★★★★★★★★☆

'Pan' is a nostalgic tour back to our childhood memories that are filled with fantastic creatures and places only available in our wild imagination. The prequel offered excitement, adventure, and stunning visual effects that would be remembered by audiences of all ages. Our thoughts of Neverland will never be the same after watching 'Pan'

Watch "Pan" Main Trailer Sets Up Origins of Peter, Blackbeard and Hook

Opened across the Philippines on Thursday, October 8, “Pan” is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.