Peter Pan

A pet project of Walt Disney's since 1939, this animated version of James M. Barrie's Peter Pan reached full fruition in 1953. Eschewing much of Barrie's gentle whimsy (not to mention the more sinister aspects of the leading character), Disney and his staff fashioned a cheery, tuneful cartoon ...more

By 1953, the Disney studio had animation down to a fine science. Critics had gotten used to the magic of animation as well, which may explain why Peter Pan, an entertaining and agreeable little gem, did not receive as strong a critical reception as it deserved. Audiences, however, responded enthusiastically, and have continued to do so down through the years. Although the original story has been "Disneyfied," much to the chagrin of purists, the result is exciting, imaginative, and engaging. ...more