The Disney classic Peter Pan gets a fresh retelling in the 2015 release titled “Pan,” featuring Marvel icon Hugh Jackman as the notorious pirate Blackbeard. The film also stars Garrett Hedlund as a young James Hook and Levi Miller as the 12-year-old Peter Pan. Directed by Joe Wright, with a substantial budget of $150 million, the movie promises high production value and impressive cinematography, enhanced by a generous use of CGI for special effects.
For fans of Hugh Jackman, especially those who admire his portrayal of Wolverine, “Pan” offers a unique opportunity to see him in a different yet equally compelling role. Jackman’s portrayal of Blackbeard adds a layer of gravitas and menace to the character, making him a memorable villain in this fantasy adventure.
In this retelling, Peter Pan and James Hook are depicted as close friends, a stark contrast to their traditional adversarial relationship. Hook, who still has both hands, joins Peter in a quest to thwart Blackbeard’s plans to ravage Neverland. The story begins with Peter being abandoned on the steps of a London orphanage during the 1930s, wearing a pan flute pendant left by his mother, Mary. As Peter grows older amidst the turmoil of World War II, he discovers that the orphanage’s headmistress is embezzling funds meant for the children. The headmistress then collaborates with pirates to kidnap Peter, whisking him away to Neverland aboard a flying pirate ship.
Upon their arrival in Neverland, Peter and other children are forced by Blackbeard to mine Pixum fairy dust, which Blackbeard uses to prevent aging. Among the enslaved children is James Hook, who quickly forms a strong bond with Peter. After Peter insults some of Blackbeard’s men, he is punished by being made to walk the plank over the mine entrance. Miraculously, Peter survives by flying for the first time, catching Blackbeard’s attention. Blackbeard recalls a prophecy that foretells his demise at the hands of a flying boy.
Peter, Hook, and Hook’s friend Smee manage to steal one of the pirates’ flying ships and escape into Neverland’s forests. Peter is determined to find his mother, believing she is waiting for him in Neverland. During their journey, they encounter local fairies, one of whom reveals that Peter’s mother, Mary, was once the love of Blackbeard’s life. However, she fell in love with a fairy prince and gave birth to Peter, whom she hid in the “other” world to protect him.
The film then follows Peter’s quest to find his mother, the development of his abilities as a half-fairy, and his efforts to protect Neverland from Blackbeard. Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Blackbeard adds a significant depth to the character, making him a formidable antagonist in this epic tale.
Despite its high production values and star-studded cast, “Pan” received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, some critics pointed out that chaotic action scenes and rapid plot development detracted from the film’s more magical moments. However, Levi Miller’s performance as Peter Pan was widely praised. Audience scores on CinemaScore and PostTrak were more favorable, with approval ratings of B+ and 78 percent, respectively.
“Pan” premiered on September 25, 2015, in Australia and on October 9 in the United States. The film grossed $35.09 million domestically and $93.9 million internationally, totaling $128.99 million worldwide. Unfortunately, this was not enough to cover its $150 million production cost, plus marketing and distribution expenses. Despite its financial shortcomings, the film remains a visually stunning and imaginative retelling of the classic Peter Pan story.
For those interested in experiencing this fantasy adventure, “Pan” is available for streaming on Netflix. The film offers a unique take on the beloved tale, with Hugh Jackman delivering a standout performance as the iconic villain Blackbeard.
Source: Rotten Tomatoes, CinemaScore, PostTrak
