1 Rare Videos' Good Service
Purchased this thru Rare Videos in FlA. via Amazon. It was as advertised, English, Widescreen Version, excellent sound & NEW. I would recommend Rare Videos for other DVD's which are unavailable for purchase in retail or discount stores. Am thrilled to be sending to my grandson for his birthday. Forgot what a delightful movie this was until I reviewed it before sending it on to him (5 yrs. old).
2 Best Disney Movie EVER!!!
Okay, so I'm a fifteen-year-old boy. This movie has always been my favorite of all the Disney movies. I would (and still do) watch it over and over when I was little, and it is keeps getting better and better. Disney had better get this one back on the shelves soon, because I missed it the last time it came out! When this movie comes out again (which I feel sure should happen in at least 10 years) you can bet I will be one of the first people in line! I don't care if I'm in college, I'll still get it. Maybe even watch it in my dorm with the door open! I don't care if people see me, Peter Pan is one of Disney's classics. Almost everyone loves the classics, instead of the crap they put out now. This is one movie that you must have, whether you want to have a Disney collection, or because you like the classics. Like I said, this is one of Disney's best and I won't miss out on the chance of getting it when it comes out. And you shouldn't either!!
3 Just a lil' bit of Pixie Dust......
I am so in love with this movie, as are my kids-I watched Pan as a kid myself and to this day never got bored watching it again and again. Along with the classic Disney Princess movies-Pan is one of Disney's greatest. Even the sequel "Return to Neverland" is close in comparison. It makes every boy want to be Pan and every little girl want to be Tink!!!
4 Perfect Peter Pan
a classic disney film with superb special features and special audiio commentary by disney pioneers... this is an animation gem with good songs and simple yet engaging plot... but slow style story telling . :)
watch it...
5 The non-missing scene
In response to two other reviewers here, the "if you believe in fairies clap your hands" scene is in many other versions of "Peter Pan," including the various widely-seen TV productions, but it was never in the Disney cartoon. Those who think it was are mixing up their memories.
6 protectionism gone mad
Yes, there IS a scene missing from the 1953 Disney movie! We watched it again recently after seeing "Finding Neverland". I was waiting for the "if you believe in fairies, clap your hands!" part (my favorite moment in the original film), but IT NEVER CAME! What is Disney thinking???!!! Does anyone know if the unedited original is available for sale anywhere?
7 MISSING SCENE?
IS THERE A "LOST" OR "STOLEN" SCENE DELETED FROM PETER PAN?
PLEASE REFER TO THE TWO REVIEWS LISTED BELOW.
This brings me to my question: as a kid, I had both a 33 1/3 record with songs from Disney movies and a tall book based on the movie. On the record, there was a song, "Do You Believe in Fairies? (Then Clap Your Hands)" which was played when Tinkerbell almost died. In the book, Peter gets Wendy and all the children to clap their hands to bring Tinkerbell back to life. I know I'm not dreaming this up - I still have both the record and the book.
Both my sister (who's ten years older than I) and myself seem to remember that this was originally in the movie. Can anyone shed some light on this for us?
Reviewer: Did I miss something in watching this version? I seem to recall that when Tinker Bell's light is fading the audience is asked to repeat that "I believe in fairies" or something to that effect. However, in this version, that portion has been edited out. Peter locates Tinker Bell as her light is fading and we know she is seriously injured and then it simply cuts to the pirate ship and then Peter and Tinker show up just fine with no explanation of how she survived. What gives? Political correctness of an anti-belief in fairy type?
WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO THIS PART OF THE STORY? I READ ALL 103 REVIEWS AND NO ONE HAS GIVEN AN ANSWER.
8 I Love This Movie!
The children in the Darling family love story about Peter Pan. So naturally when he shows up one night looking for his missing shadow, they're thrilled to go back with him to Never Land. There, they face Indians and "the world's most famous crook," Captain Hook. Will they survive their adventures with the boy who never wants to grow up?
I have always had a fascination with this story. As a kid I remember checking the Disney picture book version out of the library week after week. When I finally got to see it, I was enthralled. There is just something magical about the story. It's partially the coming together of all the boyhood adventures in one place. Mermaids, Indians, and Pirates? What more could any boy want? And, of course, the ability to fly. The "You can fly" sequence over London is one of my all time favorites. The whole movie really is animated very well with a story that movies quickly from place to place with lots of humor to keep everyone entertained and gorgeous animation of the fanciful Never Land.
This special edition is worth tracking down. The picture (original full frame) is sharp and the surround sound is very nice. Extras include a documentary on the making of the movie and a promotional theatrical featurette from the original release. The "audio commentary" is unique. Hosted by Roy Disney, it consists of selections from interviews of the voice talent, live action models, animators, and animation historians. While not your usual commentary, it's fascinating stuff and well worth a listen. Finally, there's a treasure hunt game and DVD storybook for kids.
This movie still brings a smile to my face and probably always will. Maybe my friends are right when they say I love this movie so much because I always wanted to be Peter Pan.
9 SOLID EXTRAS MAKE THIS CLASSIC SHINE
I'll admit i am a sucker for extras. i don't even buy a DVD unless there are some extras on them and Disney comes through with a very good "making of" documentary, supporting featurettes, commentary by Disney animators, galleries and more.
Peter Pan the boy who did not want to grow up. Wendy, John, and Michael children who know well who Peter Pan is. Wendy tells her little brothers stories of Peter Pan each night before bed.
One night Peter Pan and his little fairy Tinker Bell come to visit and hear the stories, and also to find his shadow. Wendy and the boys wake up to find Peter Pan in their room, when he finally asks them to come visit his Never Never Land. He shares with them the lost boys who need a mother and someone to tell them stories. Wendy and her brothers agree to come. With a pinch of pixie dust and good thoughts they begin to fly, following Peter, second star to your right and straight on till morning. The adventure begins, pirates, mermaids, Captain Hook, join in and enjoy the magical journey, that takes only one night. Fun for the whole family!
Features the voices of Hans Conried as Captain Hook, Bobby Driscoll as Peter Pan, and Kathryn Beaumont as Wendy. She was also the voice of Alice in Alice in Wonderland.
The animation is solid but not spectacular. Typical of Disney from the 1950's. A must have!
10 "And then we'll shanghai Wendy!"-Captain Hook
"SHANGHAI WENDY?", the pirates reply.!!! That's what I say!!!
Captain Hook is, his fellow pirates say, "the world's most famous crook"!
If it weren't for Peter Pan, I would not have a name! I'm most grateful to be named after Wendy Darling, a most gracious heroine and foster mother to the Lost Boys of Never, Never Land. I'm so glad too that Disney left out the ending where Wendy grows up after all, gets married, and meets Peter Pan after so many years of separation. What a rotten ending, I've always thought, so glad this version ended differently.
There's not really a moral to the story, just a fanciful adventure/children's story of innocent kids battling Captain Hook and his cohorts. Another Disney classic!
"Say your prayers, Hook!!!", Peter Pan replies when he saves the day!
11 Poor adaptation of Barrie's play misses the point.
"The Disney version" of "Peter Pan" clearly demonstrates what is so wrong with "The Disney version" of too many classic stories. It turns Barrie's play into a simple adventure tale, in which the dramatic and (dare I say it?) psycho-sexual elements at the center of Barrie's fantasy are discarded wholesale.
There are defensible reasons for this, I suppose. Drama requires talking, but characters who stand around gabbing bring an animated film to a dead stop. I also suspect that Disney simply didn't understand the story in the first place. It wasn't until the Ashman/Menken era that Disney films finally developed any dramatic focus.
It's unfortunate, because "Peter Pan" starts off well enough. The late Sammy Fain's "Second Star from the Right," played over the title cards, has one of the most-ravishing melodies in the history of American popular music. (Look for the albums "Bibbidi Bobbidi Bach" and "Heigh-Ho! Mozart" for superb "classical" arrangements of Disney tunes.) The "You Can Fly" sequence is inspired (and can you name any other pop song with an accelerando passage?). But everything quickly bogs down thereafter, with Captain Hook's machinations providing the only fun.
There just aren't enough good things in the Disney "Peter Pan" to make up for its failure to treat the source material in an honest and serious fashion.
12 A quick, enjoyable Disney viewing.
This movie animates one of the most imaginative plays ever written, albeit with a little 'Disneyfication.' It's by far my favorite; there is an enjoyably long spectrum of characters. Every time I watch this movie, it takes me back to those times I wish I was in Never-Never-Land.
P.S. The claim that this movie is an allegory to the JFK years is easily refutable, since this movie was made in 1953, while the play is over a century old.
13 Lousy Movie, but Great Symbolism!
I won't lie. It's been over six years since I have actually seen this movie. Back then I didn't like it. I still don't. But now, I have realized something: there is symbolism in this movie. You see, Peter Pan represents a certain someone. Who, you ask? Come closer. Now, we all know that the character Tinkerbell was modeled after, (or at least drawn to the likeness of), Marilyn Monroe. Coincidence? I don't think so. Can you guess who Pan is yet? Oh-kay, Peter Pan stands for John F. Kennedy- you know, irresponsible, young, womanizing, etc. Don't believe me? Look at Pan! He's dressed in green, the color of the Irish. He associates with not one, not two, but three women in this film. Sounds like JFK to me. Wendy stands as the voice of reason, Jackie. Captain Hook, of course, is Lee Harvey Oswald, and that alligator... or crocodile... thing, is Jack Ruby. Odd, isn't it?
Well, I hope you've enjoyed this little essay... or review... or... ah, whatever.
14 not a good version of my favorite story!!
i've always loved Peter Pan, and I grew up watching this cartoon along with the Mary Martin version. But after seeing the new live action Peter Pan, I have to conclude that this version is dull as dirt!!! First of all, Wendy and her brothers aren't SUPOPOSED to be telling stories ABOUT Peter Pan...the kids aren't supposed to have heard of him!! So when Peter flies in, it's very anti-climatic. Wendy is just like, Oh, Peter, you're here finally. Yawn!! I think Wendy had a lovely voice but the character is just annoying!! All she does is babble on while she sews Peters shadow. There is zero connection between Peter and Wendy, and that's a big problem. Tinkerbelle is the best character in this, but, she doesn't even get her famous death scene where everyone claps to bring her to life!! Hook using a bomb to hurt Peter instead of poisoning his "medicine" was really lame. Worst of all, with the exception of "You Can Fly!' all of the songs are lame. Do I even have to mention the idiotic "Red Man" song?? eww. Plus, the Lost Boys aren't supposed to be morons with retarded voices. Very dissapointing. This bland version is ok for little kids, but, to get the REAL story of Peter Pan, watch the NEW movie!!!
15 a classic but not one of my favorites
This is a great movie for kids, I loved it when I was little. I still think it's great. What I don't understand is this whole racist thing. I'm pretty sure that I am one of the only people who honestly doesn't think about racial issues at all when watching movies like this. My aunt is full-blooded Cherokee Indian and she loves this movie. I guess I just don't think about things the way many others do. I don't want to get into a discussion of all this p.c. propoganda. All I'm saying is, this movie is definitely a classic, and should be a part of any kid's life.
16 One of the best Disney movies: EVER
Peter Pan is one of the most entertaining and charming Disney movies ever made. It follows the adventures of Wendy, John, and Michael Darling, and of course the boy who never grew up, Peter Pan. Captain Hook is one of the funniest and evil villains ever created and his first mate, Smee, is absolutely hilarious.
I have to admit that this movie doesn't follow the book very much, but is better. The characters are so much more lovable in Disney's tale. Now why couldn't Barrie be this imaginative?
A new, live version of Peter Pan recenyly came out. and when I saw it I couldn't help but be disappointed. I missed all of those timeless songs, charming characters, and humor. Peter was dressed as if he came straight from the jungle, and unfortunately it followed the book. I know you may think that sounds odd of me to say that I didn't like it because it was an accurate adaption, but it's true.
So if you want to watch an exciting and classic movie buy this DVD.
17 Horrible adaptation of a wonderful story!
I would have given this a single star (or none if possible) except for a few redeeming qualities. Before I rant, I'll admit that it wasn't -all- bad. First, I liked Peter's voice, it captured his spirit very well. Second, I liked John and Michael, very cute. Third, I liked Nana. That's all I liked. Okay, first of all, this movie was NOTHING like the story! The only similarities were the fact that there was a Peter, a Wendy, mermaids, Hook, etc, but none of them seemed to have the same personality as in the book! Wendy was horribly annoying in the movie, and only slightly so in the book. Tinkerbell was portrayed pretty well in this version (spiteful and jealous of Wendy) but they skipped the fact that she mended their differences. In the movie, Peter is a fairly normal type of boy. In the book, he's wonderful, cocky, strong, and smart. The Lost Boys were just very different in the book. In the movie, they were cartoony, stupid, and slow, unlike the book. I agree that the portrayal of the redman was sort of incorrect in the movie, but it wasn't so different in the book. There was respect in both, although I think the visuals were slightly insulting. Hook was also very ugly in the movie, and described as very cold and attractive in the book. Overall, it just insulted me how unlike the book it was. If you loved the book, don't inch near this movie. If you haven't read it, then proceed to this movie...at your own risk!!!
18 One Of My Favorite Disney Movies
The day my dad bought me this tape back in april 1993, I instantly fell in-love with it. And while it was only the third addition to my Disney collection back then (following "The Little Mermaid" & "Beauty and the Beast"), today, having over 20 Disney films in my library, it still remains one of my favorite Disney movies ever.
I loved everything about this film, but mostly the glossy animation. It reminds me of that in "Cinderella". Very pristine, very detailed, amazing colors. Equally important, the characters are very appealing, especially Tinker-Bell and the evil-yet-hilarious Captain Hook. Wendy is also a great character, drawn very beautifully. The story of "Peter Pan" has always interested me, and therefore I had high expectations upon watching this movie for the first time. I remember watching it with my sisters; we were totally blown away by it. It's easily a classic in a league of its own.
19 You people haven't read the book, have you?
You people who complain about jealousy and malice! Most characters in the original novel -were- jealous and mean, but they had redeeming qualities. As a movie, this does disappoint me, but only the pictures. None of the characters looked as I imagined them except John and Michael. The costumes were off. Disney always does that. Pleaaase read the book, people! It's so wonderful. AND SEE THE LIVE REMAKE THAT JUST CAME OUT, IT'S AWESOME!
20 Worth returning to Neverland
So you want to try to never grow old. You could pick no better movie to try with than Disney's Peter Pan.
The story parallels Barrie's unforgettable novel almost perfectly. Wendy tells stories of Peter to her younger brothers. Peter hears these stories from outside Wendy's window and decides to take her to Neverland with him so that she can share her stories with his "Lost Boys".
With one of the strongest songs in the Disney library, "You Can Fly" to Neverland and watch the rest of Peter's adventures with Wendy.
Captain Hook is one of the most memorable Disney villains ever, especially with the croc chasing him almost every time you see him. Tinkerbell eventually becomes one of the most seen of all Disney characters. And the portrayal of Peter Pan is dead on to the original material - he really is "the boy who never grew up".
The many extras packed into this single DVD, including a sing along (=without= "You Can Fly"? Horrors!), the usual "making of" featurette, and some wonderful commentary by Roy Disney and many of the original animators, make this disc almost a must buy for Disney fans.
Highly recommended for any family with children. Highly recommended for any collection of animation greats - almost irreplaceable in a library of Disney classics.
21 I Liked This Movie!
I saw this Disney animated Peter Pan movie and I liked it and I rcommend this movie to anyone who likes a good animated movie!
22 Peter Pan
I love this movie, as I do all the earlier Disney animations. I read the review by Carolinapooh, and I, too, remember that the part about clapping to keep Tinkerbell alive was in the movie! If you watch it, you will see Tinkerbell fading, and then there is an abrupt cut and suddenly she's OK. Why would they have taken it out? Maybe they think kids today are just too sophisticated for that, and sadly, they may be right.
23 One of the better Disney adaptations
Of all the Disney adaptated tales, Peter Pan was proably one of the best. While not as Dark as JM Barrie's original story, it keeps the spirit of the original work and makes it family friendly without betraying it (Hercules anyone? Talk about completly gutting the source material). This is an acceptable adaptation in comparrison to Hercules.
Peter's arrogance and pretty much being oblivious to the way the girls around him feel about him is right on point. Tink, Wendy, and even Tiger Lily all want Peter to be something he can never be, a man. While his willingness to sacrafice for the good of others and be a knight in shinning armor of sorts must be what draws the girls in, but on a personal level he can never connect in a mature way. Even when he starts out on a nobel effort (like saving Tiger Lily) he gets so caught up in the game he just about forgets that he's there to save the young lady. This is certainly an impression of Peter given in the book. You can't really hate him for his moments of being a silly boy, especially when it comes to girls, because that's all he is and all he can ever be, a boy. And as for the 'jealouse women' reactions that circle the film, it's important to note they're not women -- they're girls. Yes, Tink is a fairy but her sense of things seems to be at the same level as Wendy.
Some of the complaints I've heard about the film are the way the Indians are portrayed. And quite a few lines ('ugh', 'How', the 'red man' song) are proably an unfortunate product of the time. But the fact is, when I was a kid I did run around saying 'bwah, bwah, bwah' when I played 'Indian'. So it makes sense in a world locked into a child's sense of the world the indians (to proper english children) would be a bit exagurated.
So all in all, Disney did a pretty good job adapting this into a film. And it's still a favorite. All in all it's a good peice. I'm a grown woman still hoping Peter will visit my window one day. And my little sisters love the movie.
24 This Movie Is AWESOME!
This movie is one of the coolest movies! I like Wendy and John and (of course) Peter Pan. Captain Hook and Mr. Smee are funny too. I also like the mermaids...they are so pretty! However, this movie is probably least like the book out of all the Disney movies. In the book, Wendy's father doesn't even threaten to give her her own room! The book actually was better than the movie, which I gave four stars because they were so different. My favorite part of the movie was where they were at Mermaid Lagoon, where Captain Hook was dangling off a cliff and Peter said "I say Captain, do you hear something?" and you heard the ticking of the crocodile. I don't know why that was so funny to me.
Anyway, this is a cool movie, and if you haven't seen it you definitely should rent it. : )
P.S.
What was the DEAL with Peter Pan's voice in the sequel? It is TOTALLY weird!!!
25 This Movie Is Wonderful!
I absolutly LOVE this movie! I'm 16 years old to date, and yet I feel like a child again everytime I watch it!
Let's face it:
1. The scene where Peter and the Darling children fly off to Never-Land is nothing less than BEAUTIFUL.
2. The battles with Captain Hook and his crew of cut-throat pirates are breathtaking.
3. The Indian Dance scene is excellent (Tiger Lily is soooooooo cute!).
4. The crocodile scenes are HILARIOUS!!! Trust me, you WILL laugh your own brains out when ol' Hook looks at that Tick-Tock Croc and freaks out as if its the end of the world (control yourself, Cap'n! Geez!!).
Oh, and Mr. Smee (Hook's goofy, right-hand man) is so funny, I can't look at that guy for a few moments before I feel like giggling my head off!
This Movie Is Wonderful, that's all I've got to say.
26 Is something missing..."Do You Believe in Fairies"?
My three and four-year-old nieces loved this movie. It's never really been one of my favorites (mainly because Peter Pan annoys me to no end - like other reviewers I'd like to see Captain Hook get a good one in) but that's just my opinion. (I didn't like the original book for the same reason.) I liked it more when I was a kid. I give it four stars for that reason.
This brings me to my question: as a kid, I had both a 33 1/3 record with songs from Disney movies and a tall book based on the movie. On the record, there was a song, "Do You Believe in Fairies? (Then Clap Your Hands)" which was played when Tinkerbell almost died. In the book, Peter gets Wendy and all the children to clap their hands to bring Tinkerbell back to life. I know I'm not dreaming this up - I still have both the record and the book.
Both my sister (who's ten years older than I) and myself seem to remember that this was originally in the movie. Can anyone shed some light on this for us?
27 Dated and Disappointing
My wife and I are big Disney fans and purchased this movie with a lot of anticipation. We were both extremely disappointed. Almost all of the characters in this film are cruel and unlikeable, including Peter Pan himself. Tinkerbell is nasty and consumed with jealousy, completely one-dimensional, and Peter is a shallow, self-absorbed imp. It's hard to imagine anyone--especially sweet Wendy--liking him. Even minor characters like the mermaids are given a jealous, petty edge.
The playful theme that we associate with the Peter Pan tale is almost nowhere to be found in this movie. I can see by all the positive reviews that my view is in the minority, and that's okay. I really wanted to like this movie, but couldn't. I kept hoping that Captain Hook--who had his hand cut off by Peter and fed to a crocodile (!)--could get ahold of bratty Peter and teach him a lesson.
28 Peter Pan is no Codfish, we rank it #2.
Our family voted PP as the 2nd best Disney movie, behind only The Lion King. It has something for boys and girls of all ages, including the 2 things that make a movie truly great for my 9 year old son•À? swords and sword fights. This is a movie we have owned a long time and it gets watched several times per year. Pete•À?s Dragon is our most watched movie period but PD came in 3rd.
We had a lot of fun by gathering the family together to rank the 41 Disney movies we have that include some cartoon work. All the kids, ages 6 to 27, participated along with mother and dad. Peter Pan is no Codfish, we rank it #2. Lion King was selected number 1 of the 41 as the family favorite, but narrowly. Peter Pan was 2. Pete•À?s Dragon 3, Beauty & the beast 4 and Sleeping Beauty 5.
29 Easiest way to manage my 4 year old
I had never seen Peter Pan in my childhood. My wife and daughter saw a sequel (I think) while in Perth, Ozzieland, and were thrilled. Feeling left out, I ordered this special edition. Not what they saw in the theater; but it is something that my daughter has averaged 5 runs a week for the last three months. If she fusses over her dinner - the mention of a time out for Peter Pan gets instant results.
Now to go find the sequel!
30 One of Disney's "Good" features
There are four classes of Disney films: the Classics (Snow White, Pinocchio, Sleeping Beauty), the Good Films (Robin Hood, Alice in Wonderland), the Yawners, or Unremarkable Films (The Aristocats, The Sword in the Stone), and the Failures (The Black Cauldron). Basically, all but the last class are ones that are enjoyable, and only the first two classes are worthy of being hailed as "Classics" by the Disney marketing machine.
Peter Pan fall distinctly in the second class, the "Good" films. Great villain (both Hook and the crocodile), great hero, and great story, but just shy of being perfect in the execution in a few places. Still, it's a classic Disney film, and "good" for Disney is a perfect feature for all but a few animation studios.
This edition has a decent amount of extras, including a commentary track (which I haven't listened to), and making-of featurettes. All in all, this is about as good as it gets for a Disney release outside of the Platinum Editions. If you can find it, make every effort to buy it.
31 A Classic Childhood Favorite
I never get tired of watching Peter Pan, probably because the concept of flying children introduced me to never-ending possibilities as a child.
I highly recommend this movie to children, parents, people of all ages. The first time I saw this movie I was a child and the last time I saw it was about a month ago at the age of 19.
32 The a=Amazing Special Edition
Peter Pan is a wonderful movie! I have loved it ever since I was a kid and even my kids love it too. When I heard about the special edition I told my kids and we all got very excited, we love this DVD. My 12-year-old daughter especially loves it, this is her favorite movie! Its a very family orented movie for everyone. This classic will never grow old in my heart!
33 Fantastic
It`s great!!! I love that it has the spanish track also for muy baby. Great buy!!!
34 Peter Pan
I'm still a fan of the Disney Classics but I have to say that Peter Pan isn't one of my favorites and for the same reason that a lot of people don't like this one and that is the scenes with the Indians (hence 4 stars unstead of 5).
PETER PAN is about the boy who could never grow up and after chasing his shadow in the bedroom of Wendy, John and Michael, he invites the 3 to fly with him to Neverland. It's a wonderful story of adventure, fun and flying. All children will enjoy this one.
Now again, my reason for taking a star off is obviously for the derogatory and stereotypical depiction of Native Americans in this movie. Regardless that this movie was made in 1953 still doens't make it right. As parents, it really should be the responsibilty of the parents to explain and to teach children the right way. I will say that every child should enjoy PETER PAN, but afterwards every parent should take the time to explain to the children that making fun of another culture is wrong.
Either way it goes, if you're looking for other great Disney classics look for BEAUTY AND THE BEAST SPECIAL EDITION, THE FOX AND THE HOUND, ROBIN HOOD, SLEEPING BEAUTY and CINDERELLA. Also check out some of the new Disney's like MONSTERS INC and TOY STORY and TOY STORY 2.
35 A work of art.
I have to thank Disney for leaving this film uncut. But I wonder why Disney choose to censor Fantasia and not this film. They both have racial sterotypes. Anyway I'm just happy they didn't censor it. Please release all your films uncut, unedited and unPC.
36 Not one of my favorites
I am a Disneyphile and own a lot of the cassettes and DVDs of the animated movies. I enjoyed Peter Pan a lot as a kid because I was obsessed with the fantasy of flying. I have to say, however, that I am not a big fan of Peter Pan now because of the sequences with the Indians. The stereotypes are more harmful than in any Disney movie, even more so than Dumbo and Song of the South (which, interestingly, is not in circulation in the United States, although it is more condescending than outright racist than Peter Pan. I think that speaks volumes about the racial situation in this country, that not every ethnic group has made the same strides in civil rights).
Unlike the animated sequences in Dumbo and Song of the South, where characters were simply given "Black" dialects, in Peter Pan, ethnic stereotypes are given form. All the Indians have bright red skin except for the beautiful chief's daughter. They are "cartoon" characters with four fingers and exaggerated body types (again, with the exception of the chief's daughter). The dialogue is insulting, of the "me smoke-um peace pipe" variety. And all the white kids play "Indian", making the bwu-bwu-bwu sounds, something I really don't wish to encourage in my own children.
I know the movie is a product of its time, but I think that a big indicator of where racial attitudes toward Native Americans stand today that people still refuse to be offended by it and dismiss any condemnation of the movie as politically-correct B.S. I don't believe it should be changed, because I think it's important not to erase history. But I think its problems outshine its trimphs. There are dozens of animated Disney movies out there. I'd rather not have this movie be my children's first glimpse at Native American culture.
37 Buy the movie if you don't already own the movie
If you don't currently own Peter Pan, and love the movie, you still have time to buy it on video and dvd. But hurry up because Peter Pan and along with Beauty and the Beast, Beauty and the Beast The Enchanted Christmas and Return to Neverland are going out of stock on 1/31/03. Along with some other titles. Whether you believe it or not that Peter Pan's voice died in 1968 because he had been abusing himself and his body was founde by kids playing in an abanded village bulding but I think it took sometime to to discover he was the voice of Peter Pan.
38 Fine Disney
Peter Pan may not be as beautifully crafted as Snow White or Pinocchio, and the music may not reach the same heights, but even four-star Disney is pretty darned fine entertainment. Like those earlier masterpieces, Disney's Peter Pan is better than the original (worried that the Disney version is not politically correct?-try Barrie's story and suffer apoplexy). Saw Peter Pan when I was three years old and enjoyed it thoroughly again 37 and now 51 years later. It may not be highly refined, but it's irresistible nonetheless, and miles ahead of anything Disney has made in the past 30 years.
To those who want Disney to edit out the knives and guns, cast the Indians and females in their modern p.c. stereotypes, and give Peter a monologue about saving the environment in Never Land, keep in mind that when the studio got finished pleasing not just you but everybody else with a gripe, there would be nothing left of the movie-or of much else written before the current age of political correctness.
Give me Hamlet and Paradise Lost exactly as they were created. Peter Pan, too.
39 Fine Disney
Peter Pan may not be as beautifully crafted as Snow White or Pinocchio, and the music may not reach the same heights, but even four-star Disney is pretty darned fine entertainment. Like those earlier masterpieces, Disney's Peter Pan is better than the original (worried that the Disney version is not politically correct?•À?try Barrie's story and suffer apoplexy). Saw Peter Pan when I was three years old and enjoyed it thoroughly again 37 and now 51 years later. It may not be highly refined, but it's irresistible nonetheless, and miles ahead of anything Disney has made in the past 30 years.
To those who want Disney to edit out the knives and guns, cast the Indians and females in their modern p.c. stereotypes, and give Peter a monologue about saving the environment in Never Land, keep in mind that when the studio got finished pleasing not just you but everybody else with a gripe, there would be nothing left of the movie•À?or of much else written before the current age of political correctness.
Give me Hamlet and Paradise Lost exactly as they were created. Peter Pan, too.
40 You'll (almost) believe you can fly
Of all Walt Disney's animated films, "Peter Pan" is my personal favorite. This classic tale of the little boy who never grew up has Disney stamped all over it. It also varies refreshingly from the versions that preceded it. In previous plays acted on the stage, Peter Pan was always played by a young woman, but in the Disney version he is all boy. He's brash, mischievous, more than a little cocksure of himself, able to fight and defeat a grown pirate captain, and on top of all this, he can fly. What else is needed for a children's hero? Tinker Bell is one of Disney's best inventions. On the stage she is a blob of light flitting here and there; only in animation could she be realized as a real pixie, vain, conceited, totally devoted to Peter and madly jealous of Wendy. The three children, Wendy, John and Michael, are very well done in the movie, and the opening family scenes are priceless. When Peter and Tinkerbell sneak through the children's window, and zoom back out again with the children in tow, we want to sprinkle on some pixie dust and fly right out there with them. Second star to the right, here we come. The scenes at Neverland are funny and original, and the pirates are a riot. One of Disney's most hilarious, and underrated, characters in all his films, is the crocodile, Hook's nemesis, who can't wait to get another chomp out of him. (Poor Hook is reduced to a bundle of shattered nerves every time he hears that tick-tock, tick-tock coming towards his ship.) The only negative in this film is the scene in the Indian village; the stereotypes that were accepted without question in the 1950s are almost embarrassing now. However, it can't and doesn't detract from the fun. The songs are okay, nut nothing special; it's the action and animation that make this movie. Of all Disney's animated films, "Peter Pan" was the one I used to wish was real when I was a child. Maybe there is a little of Peter Pan in all of us.
41 Peter Pan
Peter Pan is an exciting movie of make believe, fun for children of all ages to watch. I am disappointed that I cannot show it to my children because of the disgusting depiction of Aboriginal people throughout it. In one spot it actually says "The red man is cunning but not intelligent". I hope Disney has realized its errors and I think an edited version should be released with an apology to Aboriginal people.
42 A Masterpiece
Peter Pan is one of the greatest films Disney has ever made. Whenever the name "Peter Pan" is mentioned, virtually everybody thinks of Disney's version of Peter, Tinker Bell and Captian Hook. The story has never before been told so well. I loved this movie when I was in kindergarten and I love it even more now that I'm an adult. This movie gets an A+
43 My son's favorite movie!
My almost-3-year-old LOVES this movie. He pretends that he is Peter Pan and I am Wendy. We watched it just before going to Disneyland, and we were so glad... much of the park refers to the movie.
It's a great show that has been all but forgotten by the current generation.
44 Peter Pan is a good movie!
I like the Peter Pan! Just not the new Special Edition DVD! It is very boring extras and the movie isn't really remaster at all! I find my VHS tape that is a classic version to be better than the one on the DVD! However, I got this because I collect all the Animated Films from the Disney Studios! I wish I worked there, I would really help the Disney Company bring back the magic! I will one day!
Thank you! :)
45 Return to Never neverland!!
To the second star on the right and you will reach Neverland! Where pirates rule the sea, the Native Indians are the civilized, and meet Peter Pan and his lost boys. This is a true Disney classic that everyone must have! And don't just get the VHS, GET THE DVD! The picture quality is much better, stronger, and sharper, talk about dpi high resolution! What's more interesting is that don't watch it on your TV for best resolution, watch it on your computer for the extreme! The features are great too, my favourite is the concept art archive, all these original sketches and paintings just make me want to drool. You won't believe the ability of these artists back in the 1950s. One of the interesting feature is the history of making of Peter Pan. It shows you how the musical was first started, and Disney transformed Peter Pan into a boy! Unlike the musical that is played by an actress (though the musical is excellent too).
If you are a Disney fan I wouldn't doubt you will miss this DVD.
46 Racist scenes and no "making of "short
When I bought the Peter Pan Special Edition I had forgotten the racist portrayal of the Indians in the movie. They do live in Neverland but will kids make the distinction that if they live in Neverland it is make believe? Will they understand that not all Indians say Ugg and How like the ones in this movie? I didn't remember the "what Makes the Red Man Red" number from when I was kid but that was before video. Now kids can watch it over and over again.
Also, my copy does not have the "making of" short even though it says it does on the case. This was very disappointing because I was hoping it would address the racism issue.
47 "just think happy thoughts"
In my opinion, "Peter Pan" is a dinsey masterpeice and one of the best classic Disney films. Wendy, John, and Michael all believe in the magic and wonder of Peter Pan, and one night as they are dreaming wendy is awoken by moving around in the nursey, there standing before them is "Peter Pan"who takes them to where he lives and where kids will never grow up into adults, Neverland. While discovering neverland they meet up with enchanting mermaids, indains. Wendy ,Micheal,John meets pans family sort of speak the lost boys and discover the wonder and childlike fantasies of never growing up. But most of all, they meet Peter Pan's biggest adversary,the mean and devilish Captain Hook.
I watched peter pan for the first time when i was five "Peter Pan" is a great classic film. When I was a kid, I used to watch it all the time and i still do, mainly because I used to wish that I would never grow up, just like Peter Pan and the lost boys. Now that I'm grown, I don't have those thoughts any more, but I still enjoy watching "Peter Pan." It's a good movie. It's funny at times and exciting, it gives me a little bit of nostalgia everytime I watch it, and it even has unforgettable songs such as "You Can Fly." I don't see where it matters how old you are, there's not anything wrong with watching cartoons after you're grown, If you like classic cartoon movies or if you have any children, This will absolutely hold their attention "Peter Pan" would be a great movie to own.
48 high-flying Disney classic
PETER PAN remains one of Disney's most fondly-remembered films. Despite appearing in the same decade as Mary Martin's Broadway and television version, it is neither lessened nor ignored in comparison.
Peter Pan (voiced by Disney's resident juvenile lead Bobby Driscoll) takes young Wendy (Kathryn Beaumont) along with Michael and John on a flight of fancy to Neverland, where you can never grow old.
In their fantastic adventure, Peter and the Lost Boys battle the nefarious Captain Hook (Hans Conried), the bumbling Crocodile and the bloodthirsty Indians.
The story deals with the abandoned dreams of childhood, a child's wish to remain young and the resentment of having to grow up. James Barrie's story speaks to the child in all of us.
This beautiful new DVD reissue coincides with Disney's new sequel, RETURN TO NEVERLAND, and includes a fantastic audio commentary, still galleries, DVD storybook and featurettes.
49 different through my adult eyes
I've been making a point of re-watching all the Disney classics from my youth and commenting on them with adult eyes. It's been a very interesting experience, and PETER PAN is no exception.
What stands out are all the elements Disney wouldn't dare put in an animated film today...like the carefree knife play and the pirate who Captian Hook picks off with his hand gun. But by and large, the whole fire engine red faced "injun" scene is pretty amazing. Prune-faced and hook-nosed, the red man hits every stereotype in the book...and it just goes on and on.
While we're all familiar with the story of PETER PAN, I had no recollection the whole thing was essentially motivated by jealous females. Tinkerbell is jealous of Wendy. The mermaids are jealous of Wendy. Wendy is jealous of Tigerlily. Jealous Tinkerbell sells Peter out (at least Tigerlily was smart enough to keep her mouth shut). All are vying for Peter's attention, and he's near oblivious to the lot of it.
And Peter, in my opinion, is kind of an unlikable jerk (along with the retarded lost boys). A wise-guy, who pouts and listens to no one, he turns on his best friend, Tinkerbell, and banishes her forever, making the effort to reconcile only when he thinks she's about to die. At one point, I was kind of hoping Captian Hook would at least get one good shot in.
It's an all right piece of animation, better than SNOW WHITE and far better than ALICE IN WONDERLAND...but not nearly as good as JUNGLE BOOK, which is by far my Disney favorite. PETER PAN lands somewhere between SNOW WHITE and ROBIN HOOD on my scale. With the most enjoyable parts involving the hungry crocodile or Wendy's littlest brother (who's really cute).
50 Held my 4-year old's attention!!
When I was a little tyke of 3, my mother took me to a drive-in theater in Los Angeles to see Disney's Peter Pan. Although I had a three-year old's attention span, Mom said I was fascinated by the music and visuals.
I debated buying one of Disney's newer movies like Atlantis, or The Emperor's New Groove, but when I saw the Special Edition of Peter Pan, my decision was made easier.
My 4-year old boy immediately tried prying the shrink-wrap off of the DVD after it arrived at our home. He had seen all of the trailers for Return to Neverland, so he recognized Peter Pan right away!
My son was captivated by this wonderful classic. What's not to like about it? Great songs ("You Can Fly", and the mildly annoying "Following the Leader"), characters to whom he could relate (John and Michael, plus the Lost Boys), magic, fairies, mermaids, and pirates -- what else could a boy ask for? My son actually sat still for the ENTIRE movie. This was an all time first!
Parts of this movie would never have made it out of the editing room in today's hyper-sensitive and politically correct environment. The segments with the Indians portrays them with a classic stereotype that comes across as mildly offensive and uncomfortable today. After all, I don't think Native Americans use words like "ugh" and "how." Plus, the references to them as "red men" would make many people cringe today.
An earlier reviewer mentioned that his daughter did not like Peter Pan. That does not surprise me. Women are painted with broad stereotypes in this movie, from jealousy and fickleness, to being helpless. This is a movie that will definitely appeal to boys, but may leave the little girls longing for Mulan or The Little Mermaid. Parents may want to consider this.
In spite of these shortcomings, this DVD has launched itself to the top of our play list at home, along with Iron Giant and Titan AE.
51 Fun movie! My Daughter didnt like it much though :(
my 2 1/2 year old didn't get too scared or think that it was creepy... which is good. But, she always gets bored half way through. :(
I guess she is to young for it.
My husband and I thought it was neat though.
GREAT family movie if you have a little older children because the parents will like it too :)
52 Peter Pan
I bought my video tape used. Well, I thought I was buying it used but when it arrived, well packaged from the seller through Amazon.com, it appeared to have been unopened. The movie looks great and the kids absolutely love it (3&4 years old).
53 Magical Fun
This is a classic Disney, from a story filled with magic that appeals to all ages. My three year olds watch it over and over, and love to read the story too.
54 Not up to par with collector's editions, but some bonuses
Disney should stick with the quality and quantity of bonus material in its collector's edition DVDs. Peter Pan is a must-have for all Disney fans and families with children, but there are not nearly as many bonus features to enjoy. All in all, it's a good buy though.
55 Not up to par with collector's editions, but some bonuses
Disney should stick with the quality and quantity of bonus material in its collector's edition DVDs. Peter Pan is a must-have for all Disney fans and families with children, but there are not nearly as many bonus features to enjoy. All in all, it's a good buy though.
56 Peter Pan
Did I miss something in watching this version? I seem to recall that when Tinker Bell's light is fading the audience is asked to repeat that "I believe in fairies" or something to that effect. However, in this version, that portion has been edited out. Peter locates Tinker Bell as her light is fading and we know she is seriously injured and then it simply cuts to the pirate ship and then Peter and Tinker show up just fine with no explanation of how she survived. What gives? Political correctness of an anti-belief in fairy type?
57 Peter Pan Problem
Everyone knows how great this movie is and what a milestone it was for the Disney company, so I won't ramble on about it, but I think it is very important for everyone buying it for the documentary included on the tape to know that it isn't on there, so don't waste your time looking. I thought I had a bad tape, so I called Disney and they told me that somewhere in editing, they had made a mistake, and forgot to put the documentary on the tape. OOOPS! Avoid the mess and just get the DVD.
58 Outstanding, timeless
Classic. Must buy for any toddler/kid collection. Excellent story rendition, animation, music.
59 We can Fly!!!
All I can say is WOW!!
I hadnt watched Peter Pan in about 15 years, but it somehow remained one of my favourites. I got the Special Edition DVD last night and immediatly ripped the Amazon box and the wrapping..... I watched the movie....and suddenly I remembered I could fly.
This is a fantastic story, where as a child you can relate, and certainly wish Peter will lose his shadow in your bedroom.
This version has also some very interesting features, like language tracks in French and Spanish (its really funny to hear the characters in another language), commentaries, games and more!
And... after watching it again, and again, and again.... it still remains as one of my favourites!!
60 You will never grow old once you visit Neverland
The Special Edition Peter Pan includes the "making of" film as well as the original introduction by Walt Disney himself. Bringing the older classics to the digital arena is a great concept that allows you to view the pictures and sound as they were intended. I give this disc the highest rating of five stars for features, picture and sound. Better hurry, these Disney DVD's are only around for a short time, usually sixty days.
61 Great Disney Classic!
After Disney did " Alice in Wonderland", he did his own version of the story of " Peter Pan". It's about a imaginary boy
named " Peter" who takes three Children from england into a
wonderful and magical place called " Neverland" where they can
never grow up, but wait! there is big trouble brewing when the
evil " Captain Hook" has plans for him. absoultly wonderful disney cartoon.
62 Enchanting
This is one of the best movies Disney has ever made. The reason I gave it four stars is because the women are made as the enemies in this film. But as a child that didn't matter. Your children will love dreaming that neverland really exsist. I highly reccommend buying this movie for your children.
63 Great DVD!!
I purchased the Special Edition the day after it was released. The film essentially looks the same as it always has, except that the backgrounds are clearer. There must be something about digital revitilization of movies that just makes the background stand out more! In addition to this, the soundtrack has improved--quite noticeably.
As for the Bonus Features--they're very well done and worth viewing! The Making of Peter Pan was very informative and colorful...lots of pictures and sketches from production in the late 40s-1953.
Captain Hook is as clever as always...Peter Pan a great character. Does anyone else wonder why his ears are pointed though? Hmm...and Tinker Bell sparkles. What a pixie! As a whole, great entertainment and an improvement from my 1990 VHS (when it was first released onto video!!) and even from the DVD version released just about 3 years ago. I'm just so happy to have this movie on DVD now as it is one of my favorites...Hurray for Captain Pan!
64 A must see disney magic and adventure
I love this movie because it makes you believe in magic and also makes you believe in Neverland. Where only your dreams and imagination and pixie dust take you!
I also have seen Peter Pan in Return To Neverland and I loved it. I just wish that they still had the old character, the crocidile that Captian Hook was afraid of.
I also have the soundtrack. For any of you who loved the songs and music in the original Peter Pan I advise you to buy it. I love it. Every night I listen to it!
If you have children it would be a treat for them to listen to the magic that Disney has for them.
65 favorite disney film gets a deccent dvd release
Peter Pan has always been my favorite anmaited disney film I knew many people say there favorites are lady and the Tramp or The Lion King but Peter Pan has always had a special place in my heart. The limited edtion dvd release was bare bones with nothing but the trailer which is missing from this release. The new release greatly improves on the first with a great transferI mean the Godfather Trilogy was awful but this is just like the reccent Snow White and Dumbo releases. Features are good, but not up to par with Snow White i guess we will only get one release a year as comperhenisve as that one looks like it will be Beauty and The Beast in october.The features include too short features a orginal making of peter pan that is 12 minutes long that was also feautred on the vhs release four years ago another featurette that is 16 minutes and a little more informative then the first one. A sing along following the leader,a nice storybook hosted by wendy,A peter Pan interactive Treasure Hunt game and a still gallery of 63 rare storyboards, concept art and drawings.Bottom line if you love this movie as much as I do buy this version, But let's hope disney puts a two disc collectors edtion out one day it would be whorth 50 bucks to me.
66 An enjoyable Classic, but definately dated.
I remember loving Peter Pan as a child. As an adult I purchased the DVD for my children. The scenes with "Following the Leader," and the scenes in the nursery are classic Disney. I also have a new respect for how creative the animation was for the time when it was created.
I would recommend this Disney film, but as an adult, I noticed things that deterred from movie. I still enjoy the movie, but I cringe at the depiction of the females of this film being nothing more than frivolous beauties with nothing to do other than fight over a non-pubescent boy. (There evidently was not a female writer on staff!) I also have trouble with the Indian portrayal. I can't decide whether Disney is poking fun at the way Caucasians perceived Native Americans, or if the writers were typical of their time period.
67 HEAR BOBBY DRISCOLL SPEAK FROM BEYOND
"PETER PAN" a Disney favorite from 1953 has been resurrected, remastered and restored for its premier digital transfer. The Technicolor animation is once again pristine and the sound is crystal clear.
Although the animation style is far-removed from the detailed, classic, illustrator style of "Snow White" and "Pinnochio," it is still fluid, with nicely framed compositions that have a rougher, more spontaneous, almost sketchy look that ushered in a modernistic wave of Disney animation.
The bonus material is significant, especially the fabulous commentary track hosted by Roy Disney (Walt's nephew) and the making-of documentary with always affable and informed Leonard Maltin and old time animators Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnson and the voice of Wendy, Kathryn Beaumont. There's a preview of the new big screen feature "Return to Neverland" among other extras.
There's a notorious element to this movie in the haunting presence of the late, brilliant and beautiful child star Bobby Driscoll (the voice of Peter Pan). He was discovered dead of a drug overdose in a condemned New York tenement in 1968 and buried in a pauper's grave. More than a year later he was finally identified through fingerprints. "Peter Pan" is a fitting tribute to Driscoll's remarkable, natural, talents. And the genius of Walt Disney in visualizing the darker elements barely, if even, hinted at in the original fantasy.
68 I forgot how great this movie was !
What a treat, to be as thrilled with a movie as my two year old is. PAN PAN PAN ! That's all we hear in our house now!
69 PETER PAN: This 14th Disney Masterpiece Never Grows Old!!
Disney's "Peter Pan" is one of their most enchantingly delightful animated features, telling the story of how Peter Pan whisked Wendy, John, and Michael off to his home in Never Land for a magical adventure none of them would ever forget fighting Captin Hook and his ruthless band of pirates.
Although the original 1999 "Limited Issue" DVD lacked bonus features (with the only one being the option to watch the movie in French), fans of the film have been rewarded for waiting with this Special Edition. The movie looks better then it did on any previous release, and that's reason enough to buy this masterpiece. But the extra features -- oh! True, this disc pales in comparison to the Platinum Edition release of "Snow White" (unfortunately "Peter Pan" is NOT one of the nine other Platinum Editions to be issued over the next decade) but for one disc I'd say they did a pretty nice job. "You Can Fly: The Making of Peter Pan" was also provided on the 1998 45th Anniversary Limited Edition VHS, but it's worthy of another watch. After seeing the movie again, start with that, and then see the wonderful 13-minute 1952 promotional featurette "The Peter Pan Story." They're even more exellent when viewed together.
Next, head back to the movie, but turn on the audio commentary this time. Hosted by Roy E. Disney, it provides some really amazing information on the film I never knew before. Other commentators include Walt Disney himself (pieced together from old interviews, etc.), some of his Nine Old Men, other vetran animators, Kathryn Beaumont (who provided Wendy's voice in the feature), and of course noted film critic Lenoard Multin, among others. Next, take a few minutes to examine the vast visiual gallery. Wonderful stuff in there for fans and casuial viewers alike.
The bonuses aimed at kids are worth a look too. The best by far was the "Following the Leader" sing-along, although it looked a bit dull (not being taken from the newly restored version of the film, but an older one), and the Pirate Treasure Hunt game was fun, if too easy. The DVD storybook was AWFUL, though, attempting to create a new story out of the animation that was already created for the original movie. If that sounds confusing, don't worry, don't bother with the feature. Another note: Why couldn't they have put a "You Can Fly" sing along on the disc as well? There was a Sing Along videotape devoted to that one as the title tune, so a version does exsist. I'dve much prefered it over "Following the Leader," but really would've liked both. Oh well.
Lastly, there's a new trailer for "Return to Never Land" (NOT either of the theatrical ones; this one has some really great new footage) that's worth a look before you go see the movie. And if you buy this before March 31, your child will get in free -- as an extra bonus, there's one free child's admission movie ticket for "Return" inside every Special Edition DVD and video.
In addition to all this, new trailers show that among others "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh" will make it to DVD this year (finally) in October for the former and May for the latter. Great news, I think. Plus there's a really cute Disney TV spot called "Magic Happens" on the second menu of trailers.
All in all, this is a wonderful DVD -- much better then the Limited Issue edition -- and I'm glad to own it. Something you shouldn't miss! ***** (5/5)
70 fun, if dated, film with no dvd extras
The Disney people were awfully talented, but they sure weren't leading the political correctness parade! There are definitely some egregious sexist plot devices and racially insulting utterings here that make this film seem dated, but it is difficult not to enjoy the great plot, wonderful songs and excellent direction. Captain Hook is a colorful villain, Tinkerbell rocks, and some of the scenes just take your breath away -- flying over London on the way to Neverland and our first sight of the island, for example.
The dvd edition is disappointing. You can listen to the film in English or French, and that is about it -- no subtitles, no storyboards, no voiceover, no extras at all. For the price, you might want to buy the VHS edition instead. I believe there is a new dvd edition with extras and that may be more worthwhile. This would be a less expensive alternative if you just want a copy for kids' viewing, perhaps. If watching with children, you should also be prepared to discuss why we don't use the terms 'redskins' and 'injuns' anymore.
Recommended with reservations.
71 I'm in love....
When I was five, I was in love with Peter Pan. I thought I was going to marry him when I got older, and tried jumping out of a window, thinking I could fly. Now, at 14, I moved on to Michael. He's adorable! But..ahem...
This classic Disney movie is about Peter Pan, Neverland, the lost buys.... Wendy tells her younger brothers, John and Michael, stories about Peter Pan every night. Peter Pan himself loves these stories, and when he finds out that there will be no more stories because Wendy is moving from the nursery, he takes matters into his owns hands. He teaches the kids how to fly and takes them to Neverland, where the adventure starts.
No matter what your age is, if you have any taste, you'll love this movie.
72 author hates or fears women
I am an adult who usually enjoys Disney movies, but this is the worst one I've ever seen. The author and/or adaptors into cartoon, portray all female characters except Wendy as jealous and malicious. Tinkerbell is jealous of Wendy and tries to get others to hurt her. The mermaids are jealous of Wendy and mistreat her. Then even Wendy becomes jealous of the Indian princess. The boys have all the fun, and Peter seems to relish the girls sniping at eachother over his attention. Very shallow and disappointing cartoon.
73 Peter Pan is a delight!
Even though I'm a teenager, I still love this movie! Everything it is superb!
One of the things that amazes me each time I watch it is the animation. The colors are absolutely gorgeous, and the views from above England and Never Never Land are truly stunning.
"Peter Pan" also has a great musical score. One of the best songs is "You Can Fly," sung while the children are flying over London.
The one problem I had with this movie was that there were almost no solos. After awhile, you may get tired of hearing the chorus.
Otherwise, this a fabulous movie. I recommend it to everyone!
74 Definitive, Classic Disney, Best of the Best!
From the first time I saw this feature back in the '50s, I have loved it most of all...there is so much here that is reminiscent of the Golden Times of childhood, what a special time it is and how fleeting...the idea that one can choose not to grow up at all, but live as a perennial child in a place of beauty, some danger, although not real danger, just enough to keep things interesting, and adventures and wonderful spots throughout the island to visit, is a universally appealing one. The music is perfectly suited to this vision of Halcyon days gone by, from the favorite "I Can Fly" to "The Pirate Song" to "What Makes the Red Man Red" to the Lullaby that Wendy sings to the Lost Boys, it's just wonderfully evocative and captures the mood of each moment perfectly.
The opening shot that slowly zooms in to the Darling house is fabulous, as is the extraordinary detail of the house itself; I notice something different every time I see it. The animators built an exact miniature of the house down to the smallest detail and fixtures, etc, to aid them in their drawing, and this attention to detail and quality are very apparent throughout.
The voices, from Bobby Driscoll as Peter to Kathryn Beaumont as Wendy are wonderfully voiced, very believable without being cloying or self conscious, real kids having real adventures.
The colors are so various and rich it stuns the eye, as does the shot of the Island of Never Never Land, the first time we see it, from high above, the Pirate Ship anchored in the harbor, Mermaid Lagoon, the Indian Camp, etc, it is SO beautiful and amazing that they (the animators) were so astute in their picture of a child's fantasy, their own island of adventures. The interaction between Captain Hook and the Crocodile is very funny, as is the byplay with Hook and Smee, the bumbling, endearing servant to the Captain. Tinker Bell is great as the jealous, somewhat snippy fairy who accompanies Pan wherever he goes and displays loyalty of the first order, being willing to sacrifice her life for his.
I also love the animal outfits worn with great joy by the Lost Boys, who are a fascinating group in their own right. Despite all the fun and adventure, the Darling children opt to return to their own home and Pan obliges them in yet another visually stunning scene when Tinkerbell transforms the Pirate Ship into a thing of beauty by showering it completely with golden fairy dust.
When they have been safely deposited back into their room, the Darlings return from their party just in time to see Peter sailing across the night sky in the wonderful Pirate Ship, which travels across the Moon on a sea of clouds...Wendy, Mr. and Mrs. Darling watch from the Nursery window, and we leave them there, a family, happy and united in their wonderment, the adults and the child, together in their memories of a wonderful chapter of Youth Eternal, as all remember their own experiences with Peter Pan, the boy of Youth and Joy forever.
75 Delightful Disney film
"Peter Pan" still retains its charm, wit and heart expressed in its animation, which has been cleaned up quite a bit, while faithfully following Barbie's book. It's probably the film that spawned the adventurous 1991 "Hook," but this animated feature is far better than "Hook."
"Peter Pan" is when two English parents leave for a party, leaving behind the nursemaid dog Nana and their three children, Wendy, Michael, and John behind. Not long after their parents have left, Peter Pan and his tiny accomplice Tinker Bell crash in, looking for Peter's shadow, spawning the entertaining, funny, and charming results, leading to a fluffernutter happy ending.
What this is one of Disney's latter classics that remains one of my favorite Disney classics, among the handsomely made "Sleeping Beauty" that wins you over with its captivating animation and the lush classical music, while "Bambi" wins you over with heart and good nature. But "Peter Pan" wins you over with heart, humor and just the right amount of magic.
The special edition VHS and DVD come with a free movie ticket to see the sequel "Return to Neverland" and it comes fully restored to its original brilliance, which makes it all the more enjoyable to see and hear this delightful Disney feature. Perfect for anyone looking for 77 minutes to spare.
76 The Best of the Best
I'm 22, and been watching this movie since I was 4 or so. It's got everything a boy could want. The ability to fly, fight pirates, meet and chat with mermaids, and kiss an Indian princess. Your children will enjoy this, I still do. Buy this now!!!!
77 PETER PAN IS A GREAT MOVIE!!!!
Disney's Peter Pan is the finest Peter Pan movie ever made.Disney's animation in this film is very strong,they make Never Land so beautiful and Captain Hook's ship looks almost real!This film has very good Music.From songs to background music.A film all ages can endure.
This fantastical film begins in London where Wendy,John,and Michael's bedtime stories hero,Peter Pan visits them.Peter later invites them on a magical journey to Never Land.With the help of Tinker Bell,his feisty sidekick,a shower of Pixie Dust and some Happy Thoughts,Peter teaches them how to fly.Off they soar to an enchanted island filled with wonder and terror.Later they fall into the clutches of Peter's arch enemy,Captain Hook and his band of pirates.From the stunning scenes of the flight to Never Land,to the underground home of the Lost Boys,to the stardust ship in the moonlight-Peter Pan defines Disney magic.
78 Peter Pan - Limited Issue DVD
"Peter Pan", the 2nd Disney Classic that I added to my DVD library is another keeper. Another favorite from my childhood, the film is still a great experience to watch. The animation is still classic, as is the story. Of course, the appeal of the film has changed for me, from what it was when I was a kid. It is now a classic animation film, rather then just a cartoon.
I was suprised with Disney didn't announce that this film was going to be part of their "Platinum Editions", but this DVD (while no extras) is still worth the purchase for the film its self. The picture is adequete as is the Dolby Digital Mix (Adequete for an animated film that is).
If you are a DVD Collector, you should strongly consider purchasing this DVD, and all of Disney's Classics.
79 excitement~
my brother liked this film about these kids that tell stories about peter pan and then he finally comes and takes them to his world where he wants them to stay, and if they dont they can never come back. The land is for kids only and they wil never grow up there. There are mermaids, and pirates, etc and new charecters and kids and exciteing for the whole family.~
80 My Son Wet Himself With Laughter
It had been a long time since I had seen this Disney Classic, but I thought it was an absolute hoot! My 4-year-old son laughed so hard at the crocodile sequences that he wet himself! (for him, a first) This is an excellent piece of entertainment. To Hell with the "stereotyping" complaints. If you are too PC to endure them, then don't watch the movie. Simple, huh? This is a fantasy, and has more in common with the Warner Bros. approach to cartooning than most people realise. Just compare Bugs and Y.Sam to Pan and Hook and you'll see what I mean. It is far less honey sweet than most other early Disney classics. Oh, and incidently, the last time Disney bent over backwards for the "Native American Sensitivity Crowd," the result was "POKABOREME." A bomb, if memory serves. Come on folks, lighten up! By the way, why is it nobody complains about the stereotyped Brits and Pirates?
81 Pure Magic!
When someone asks "what is your favorite Disney movie" I usually reply, "Beauty and the Beast" or "The Lion King", as do most people. There is one Disney movie, which almost everyone loves, yet always seems to forget, "Peter Pan". This is one of Disney's most wonderfully brilliant and magical movies ever. It combines the joy of childhood with the seriousness of growing up. I remember watching it so often that I wore out my video. Anyone of any age can enjoy this film...and will.
82 Oh C'mon
This is a wonderful book. Poetic and a brilliant read. What touched me most about this book was the part about John Huff. The reason is it was so very real. The emotion Doug felt was heartfelt. I know because I read it just as one of my best friends was moving away. It nearly moved me to tears not an easy task. Then there is the Lonely One. A chilling character that you never actually know. Yet the fear of the mother is felt by you. The question is this. What did everyone find so confusing? It is obvious that they either have never read Bradbury, or are incredibly daft. Yes it tells different stories, such as the middle aged man and the old woman, with lime-vanilla ice. But confusing? Never. Were one story stopped another picked up rather easy to understand. My recommendation, if you don't wished to be touched by Bradbury's jawcraker and poetic masterpiece, and never want to feel, then ovoid the book. If you want to go back in time and feel the joy's and sorrows of what most of us have left behind then buy it. In the words of Bradbury himself in the beginning of the book. "The wine still waits in the cellars below. My beloved family still sits on the porch in the dark. The fire balloon still drifts and burns in the night sky of an as yet unburied summer. Why and how? Because I say it is so."
83 Disney at it's best
One of my favorite Disney films. Love the music & Tinkerbell is one of my favorite characters. No extras on the disc though. Disney is famous for that. Great picture quality & love the music.
84 Poor presentation of a great film
Peter Pan is a terrific film full of swahbuckling adventure, great music and heart. The DVD on the other hand is an empty experience. The only extra feature is a French language trak. Not too much fun if you don't know French. Thankfully I already own this film on a laser disc which has two documentaries, concept art, character design concepts, storyboard art, and some of the live-action refrence footage used by the animators. These are the kinds of things I want to see on a DVD release. I mean the disc can hold 4 hours on one side alone, so space isn't a problem. Come on Disney, get it right.
If you don't already have a decent version of Peter Pan (or by some cosmic twist of fate, have never even seen it) then by all means buy this DVD. But if you're looking for more than the film itself you'll just have to wait for the special edition of Peter Pan (whenever and IF it ever comes out).
85 Oh Come ON!
This is a great movie. It's funny, well written and tells a wonderful story. However, I'm sick of this steryotype crap. Give me a break people, this movie was made a long time ago, when they made movies with a decent story line, and didn't compromise that to make all the poor little people happy. Looses up. Don't talk to your kids about it being "wrong" or "evil" what next burn it 'cos it's offensive? Give me a break. Let peoople make movies properly, and don't worry about offending everyone in the world. Most people aren't offended and out dumber those that for whatever reason are. Get a life.
86 Great Movie, Great Edition, Not so Great Special Features
Peter Pan is one of my favorite all-time Disney movies. It's a very good example of the wonderful sense of humor and imagination Walt had when he was still alive. It was marvelous to see the film again that as a child I had rented and re-watched so many times my father finally bought it for me.
The film has gone through some restoration work and the colors on this DVD version are vivid and beautiful, unlike the faded and sometimes scratchy film I remember from the earlier release I owned as a child. Perhaps it's also a marvel of DVD compared VHS. I would definitely consider this the collector's version of Peter Pan.
However, I was hoping for a bit more in the way of special features. I feel this way about most of Disney's releases to DVD. I would loved to have seen more about the development of the film, perhaps a trailer or new reels for its first release, anything. However, the only feature included is an alternate soundtrack in French.
I still think that it is worth the extra price for the DVD (but then, my original VHS video was eventually shredded by a broken VCR, so I'm glad to know that will never happen again). It's certainly a movie I still plan to watch again and again.
87 A lot of memories with this one
In my opinion, "Peter Pan" is one of the most classic and one of the best of the classic Disney films. Wendy, John, and Michael all believe in Peter Pan, and one night they finally get lucky. "Peter Pan" takes them to where he lives and where kids will never grow up into adults, Neverland. While there, Wendy, John, and Michael meet other kids and discover the wonder and childlike fantasies of never growing up. But most of all, they meet Peter Pan's biggest adversary, Captain Hook.
"Peter Pan" is a great classic film. When I was a kid, I used to like it a lot, mainly because I used to wish that I would never grow up, just like Peter Pan and some of the other kids. Now that I'm grown, I don't have those thoughts any more, but I still enjoy watching "Peter Pan." It's a good movie. Parts of it are funny, it gives me a little bit of nostalgia everytime I watch it, and it even has some good songs that are unforgettable, such as "You Can Fly." I don't see where it matters how old you are, there's not anything wrong with watching cartoons after you're grown, unlike what my dad thinks. If you like classic cartoon movies or if you have any kids, "Peter Pan" would be a great movie to get.
88 Am I Remembering this right?
I watched this video with my children. It was the first time I've seen Peter Pan since my own childhood and it was every bit as captivating as I'd remembered - with one exception. I waited expectantly for the moment that Peter Pan asks the audience to help him save Tinkerbell. It seems that the scene was cut short. Without that critical footage, it just wasn't the same movie.
89 A good kids movie but the content is abit outdated.
After sitting down and watching this movie for the 20th time this week, I must still agree with my special little guy that this is a great movie. He loves it and that is important since it is a kids movie. Forget about the cinematic effects or the lack of. The real important question is: do the kids like it? My kid loves it! And I am sure that your kids will too...
Why the 3 stars, well the movie uses some time "filler" scenes with a native American theme. I find this scene to be abit unrelated and stereotypes native Americans/Canadians. Too many politically incorrect references that are out of touch with today's society. I have to explain to my little guy that the movie is wrong and that these references are not acceptable in this day and society. Other then that it's a great film.
90 DVD is dissappointing
Disney is definitely letting down the DVD communtiy compared to other companies. Aside from some artwork, this DVD has nothing else on it except the movie itself. Good heavens for the price Disney charges, there should be a painted cell from the movie coming with the DVD.
The story itself is a classic. The animation has not held up all that well, though I think some of that has to be due to the introduction of computer animation.
None of the songs are really noteworthy.
91 Never land is the dream home for every one
This movie rocks! I have and can draw from it very well. Tink has a great attitude and yeah, she deserves Peter alot more than Wendy does! This movie is almost tied but still second to The Road to Eldorado in my favorites.
Thanx for taking the time to read my review
Kel
92 Tough to justify in 2000
My daughter really likes this movie but we had to have many reminders that women ARENT "easy to trick when they are jealous" and that Native Americans do not act like they do in the movie. I don't like censorship of any kind but in this day and age I cant just let this movie be seen without a discussion of "fantasy vs. reality".
If you want to have this in your collection, by all means do so, it IS a classic story, and in defense of Disney, Barrie was a notorious mysogenist, However, a discussion of stereotypes would be a nice way to offset this sometimes mean-spirited movie.
93 Not the best but still very good.
I did love Tinkerbell, one of my all time favorite Disney characters & the music was great. A few things could have been changed, but not much.
94 A good movie marred by some embarassing stereotypes
This is an enchanting story, and I'd give it 5 stars if it weren't for a bit of unfortunate sterotyping of American Indians. In particular, a song sung by the Indian characters ("What Makes The Red Man Red?") is intended to be funny, but now it just comes across as embarrassing. I fully realize this sort of thing was par for the course in Hollywood at the time. But it's still unfortunate that I now have to explain to my kids that it's really NOT OK in our family to use skin color as the punch line to a joke.
95 A good movie marred by some embarassing stereotypes
This is an enchanting story, and I'd give it 5 stars if it weren't for a bit of unfortunate sterotyping of American Indians. In particular, a song sung by the Indian characters ("What Makes The Red Man Red?") is intended to be funny, but now it just comes across as embarrassing. I fully realize this sort of thing was par for the course in Hollywood at the time. But it's still unfortunate that I now have to explain to my kids that it's really NOT OK in our family to use skin color as the punch line to a joke.
96 Classic
Old Disney...when Walt was alive set a precedent that was distroyed by many films until Lion King.
97 THERE IS NO WIDESCREEN VERSION !
I can't add anything to the praise for this film. If you love Disney films, this is considered one of the classics. I just wish to briefly comment on the criticism of the lack of a widescreen version. The first widescreen film, The King and I, was released in 1956. Previous to this all films were full screen. Peter Pan, released in 1953, and a good many of the Disney classics are only available in full screen aspect. This is not the Pan and Scan alteration of an original Widescreen format. The way this film is presented on the DVD is the original aspect ratio; Nothing has been altered. I have seen this so called criticism leveled against many Hollywood classics such as Casablanca, Gone with the Wind and The Wizard of Oz. Please, get off your high horse and stop whinning about how Disney or whatever movie company is ripping you off. None of these films ever had a widescreen version to begin with. Do a little research and you could be content to enjoy these classics in the aspect ratio they were orginally presented in. Thats all I wish to say.
98 My FAVORITE movie of ALL times!
Peter Pan was the first movie I ever saw in theaters. I've been in love with it ever since. For a year I called my dad "Peter".My email address is tinkerbell343. I was Tinkerbell for Halloween 5 years in a row! I begged my parents to take me to see Peter Pan on ice! It is a brilliant story, one of imagination and adventure. It is full of fairies, pirates, and the wanting to stay a child. It is perfect for children(and grown ups), and I HIGHLY recommend it!
99 GREAT MOVIE - DISSAPOINTING DVD!
IT IS SAD THAT DISNEY HAS BECOME THE MULTIZILLION DOLLAR INSTITUTION THAT IT HAS. IF IT WAS STILL UNDER THE WATCHFUL CARING EYES OF WALT DISNEY HIMSELF, I DON'T THINK THE DVD VERSION OF THIS MOVIE I JUST PURCHASED WOULD BE THE SAME. THE MOVIE OF COURSE IS AS GREAT AS IT ALWAYS WAS - A WONDER OF ARTISTRY & FANTASY SEAMLESSLY BLENDED TOGETHER. THE COLORS ARE AS BEAUTIFUL AS EVER. THE SOUND IS O.K., BUT I WOULD THINK THAT DISNEY COULD DO SOMETHING IN THE WAY OF RESTORATION AS FAR AS THE HISS THAT IS VERY NOTICEABLE - ESPECIALLY IN THE LOUDER PASSAGES.
I ALSO AM NO DUMMY WHEN IT COMES TO GENERAL DVD KNOWLEDGE, BUT I WAS TOTALLY CONFUSED LOOKING AT THE BACK OF THE DVD CASE AS TO WHETHER THIS MOVIE WAS A WIDESCREEN VERSION OR FULL SCREEN. IT CLEARLY STATES IN MINISCULE LETTERS UNDER THE RUNNING TIME THAT PETER PAN IS PRESENTED IN ITS ORIGINAL THEATRICAL ASPECT RATIO, APPROX. 1.33:1. I (AND PROBABLY ANYONE ELSE BESIDES ROGER EBERT) WOULD GUESS THAT THIS MEANS IT APPEARS AS IT WAS ORIGINALLY SHOWN IN THEATRES - WIDESCREEN! I WAS MORE THAN TICKED TO FIND LATER THAT IT IS IN FACT A PAN AND SCAN VERSION, AND AFTER PAYING NOT A SMALL SUM OF MONEY, I FEEL A LITTLE ROOKED.
MY SUGGESTION IS TO KEEP WATCHING THAT WORN OUT VHS COPY UNTIL DISNEY DECIDES TO INVEST A LITTLE MORE IN ONE OF THEIR CROWN ACHIEVEMENTS. OH AND DON'T WORRY TOO MUCH ABOUT THAT LIMITED ISSUE NONSENSE MEANING THAT THEY ONLY MANUFACTURE EACH MOVIE TITLE ON A LIMITED NUMBER RUN ONLY ONCE PER GENERATION (WITH DISNEY, GENERATIONS ARE BORN QUITE OFTEN). RIGHT NOW, THEY OBVIOUSLY ARE HAVING A GIGANTIC CASE OF TIGHTWADITIS AND YET ARE STILL PRICING THEIR TITLES WELL ABOVE OTHER STUDIOS. SAD, SAD, SAD!
I ONLY HOPE WE ALL CAN SEE THIS MOVIE IN ITS FULL WIDESCREEN GLORY AND SOUND SOON! PETER PAN IN ITSELF IS STILL MAGICAL!
100 GREAT MOVIE - DISSAPOINTING DVD!
IT IS SAD THAT DISNEY HAS BECOME THE MULTIZILLION DOLLAR INSTITUTION THAT IT HAS. IF IT WAS STILL UNDER THE WATCHFUL CARING EYES OF WALT DISNEY HIMSELF, I DON'T THINK THE DVD VERSION OF THIS MOVIE I JUST PURCHASED WOULD BE THE SAME. THE MOVIE OF COURSE IS AS GREAT AS IT ALWAYS WAS - A WONDER OF ARTISTRY & FANTASY SEAMLESSLY BLENDED TOGETHER. THE COLORS ARE AS BEAUTIFUL AS EVER. THE SOUND IS O.K., BUT I WOULD THINK THAT DISNEY COULD DO SOMETHING IN THE WAY OF RESTORATION AS FAR AS THE HISS THAT IS VERY NOTICEABLE - ESPECIALLY IN THE LOUDER PASSAGES.
I ALSO AM NO DUMMY WHEN IT COMES TO GENERAL DVD KNOWLEDGE, BUT I WAS TOTALLY CONFUSED LOOKING AT THE BACK OF THE DVD CASE AS TO WHETHER THIS MOVIE WAS A WIDESCREEN VERSION OR FULL SCREEN. IT CLEARLY STATES IN MINISCULE LETTERS UNDER THE RUNNING TIME THAT PETER PAN IS PRESENTED IN ITS ORIGINAL THEATRICAL ASPECT RATIO, APPROX. 1.33:1. I (AND PROBABLY ANYONE ELSE BESIDES ROGER EBERT) WOULD GUESS THAT THIS MEANS IT APPEARS AS IT WAS ORIGINALLY SHOWN IN THEATRES - WIDESCREEN! I WAS MORE THAN TICKED TO FIND LATER THAT IT IS IN FACT A PAN AND SCAN VERSION, AND AFTER PAYING NOT A SMALL SUM OF MONEY, I FEEL A LITTLE ROOKED.
MY SUGGESTION IS TO KEEP WATCHING THAT WORN OUT VHS COPY UNTIL DISNEY DECIDES TO INVEST A LITTLE MORE IN ONE OF THEIR CROWN ACHIEVEMENTS. OH AND DON'T WORRY TOO MUCH ABOUT THAT LIMITED ISSUE NONSENSE MEANING THAT THEY ONLY MANUFACTURE EACH MOVIE TITLE ON A LIMITED NUMBER RUN ONLY ONCE PER GENERATION (WITH DISNEY, GENERATIONS ARE BORN QUITE OFTEN). RIGHT NOW, THEY OBVIOUSLY ARE HAVING A GIGANTIC CASE OF TIGHTWADITIS AND YET ARE STILL PRICING THEIR TITLES WELL ABOVE OTHER STUDIOS. SAD, SAD, SAD!
I ONLY HOPE WE ALL CAN SEE THIS MOVIE IN ITS FULL WIDESCREEN GLORY AND SOUND SOON! PETER PAN IN ITSELF IS STILL MAGICAL!
