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Depp and Forster have enchanted most mainstream critics.

Harry Forbes (Catholic News Service) calls it "a beautiful and affecting addition to the 'Peter Pan' filmography. While not entirely adhering to the facts, the fictionalized approach taken by screenwriter David Magee … is acceptable, and feels true enough in spirit to overlook the inaccuracies. This story of creativity and the power of imagination is a winner. But bring your tissues; you'll need them."

Russ Breimeier (Christianity Today Movies) offers criticism, calling it "a glass ¼ empty," and praise, saying he was "swept up in the spirit and imagination expressed in the movie, a charming and dramatic tearjerker that's sweet without resorting to syrup. Though the content is wholesome enough for the whole family, it's really geared for adults seeking to recapture the lost wonder and innocence of youth. It just might inspire you to re-examine the world around you with younger, more whimsical eyes-and also revisit a literary classic."

Finding Neverland: Josh Hurst (Reveal) says, "Stories this inspiring and well-told don't come along too often, and, thankfully, this one is aided by its excellent ensemble cast. All of them can have Oscars as far as I'm concerned." Referring to the film's emphasis on the importance of stories, he adds, "Indeed, stories are important. They can provide us with encouragement and healing, and then send us back into the real world with fresh wisdom and strength to face whatever challenges this world may present us. Finding Neverland does this and much more. It's a world of magic and joy, and one that I hope to visit again very, very soon."

Elliott Ryan (CBN) writes, "Overall, this is a well-acted movie that may go on to become almost as beloved as Barrie's play."

Rhonda Handlon (Plugged In) says the film "does a masterful job of illuminating the creative process. Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet more than earn their keep here, delivering deep and enchanting performances. But what makes this film so engaging and fascinating—and keeps it from turning into yet another by-the-numbers biopic—is its nuanced attention to the way small decisions can so radically change your life."

A ready-to-download Movie Discussion Guide related to this movie is available at ChristianityTodayMoviesStore.com. Use this guide after the movie to help you and your small group better connect your faith to pop culture.

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