Ever since the original Peter Pan story was put to paper, the adventures of Peter and Neverland have been chronicled in various different formats (books, movies, TV shows, etc.). This re-telling of the Pan story, set on stage with Mary Martin portraying the rambunctious youngster, has a certain charm that is all its own.
Unlike some Pan stories that may take themselves a bit too seriously, this edition is made for children and it shows in nearly every scene. Both Captain Hook and his merry band of pirates and the Tiger Lilly-led Indians are played for slapstick/silly humor, while Martin's Pan and Wendy are quite whimsical themselves.
Yet, despite the child-oriented humor and content, adults can also enjoy the film for the exact same reasons. Instead of playing like, say, a typical Disney film (where little tidbits are thrown in every once in awhile to keep parents moderately entertained) this production will charm adults on the sole premise of its youthful exuberance.
Perhaps the highlight of the entire Pan experience, though, are the musical numbers (especially those featuring Cyril Ritchard's Hook). The Indian numbers are particularly fun, while "Hook's Tango" is probably the highlight of the entire film.
So, though older children may roll their eyes at the hokey plot/acting/humor, young kiddies will still revel in it again and again!
Unlike some Pan stories that may take themselves a bit too seriously, this edition is made for children and it shows in nearly every scene. Both Captain Hook and his merry band of pirates and the Tiger Lilly-led Indians are played for slapstick/silly humor, while Martin's Pan and Wendy are quite whimsical themselves.
Yet, despite the child-oriented humor and content, adults can also enjoy the film for the exact same reasons. Instead of playing like, say, a typical Disney film (where little tidbits are thrown in every once in awhile to keep parents moderately entertained) this production will charm adults on the sole premise of its youthful exuberance.
Perhaps the highlight of the entire Pan experience, though, are the musical numbers (especially those featuring Cyril Ritchard's Hook). The Indian numbers are particularly fun, while "Hook's Tango" is probably the highlight of the entire film.
So, though older children may roll their eyes at the hokey plot/acting/humor, young kiddies will still revel in it again and again!