Yesterday, we brought you the first images from Joe Wright’s Pan, a new interpretation of the Peter Pan story that serves as something of an origin tale for the boy who refused to grow up. In this version, the notorious pirate Blackbeard (Hugh Jackman) is abducting World War II-era orphans in the middle of the night and spiriting them away to Neverland. For what purpose, we aren’t entirely sure, but the first Pan trailer makes it quite clear that most of the film will exist in a bright, colorful land of fantasy. Check it out below.
Watch the exclusive trailer for #PAN starring @RealHughJackman, Garrett Hedlund, Rooney Mara and Levi Miller! https://t.co/Ao78jodZqc
— Pan (@pan) November 25, 2014
While there’s no denying how gorgeous this footage is, it’s reminiscent of yesterday’s photos in that it’s very difficult to get a sense of tone. While much of it seems whimsical and playful, there are also hints of something much darker at play here. I’m also not sure if Jackman’s Blackbeard is meant to come across as goofy as he does in some of these scenes, or if something about the portrayal isn’t being effectively communicated here.
The characterization of Hook also comes across as puzzling. He seems less like the dashing, Indiana Jones type of adventurer that early descriptions pegged him as, and more like a buffoon. And with Blackbeard looking so much like the iconic version of Hook, it’s pretty easy to see that when Hook’s villainous turn occurs, he’ll look to Blackbeard to influence his new image.
Finally, I know there was a bit of an uproar when Rooney Mara was cast as Tiger Lily, but she’s a fine actress, and she looks to be having fun with the role. Would it have been more politically correct to cast a Native American actress? Sure, but it also would’ve made more sense to cast Japanese actresses for the leading roles in Memoirs of a Geisha, rather than three Chinese actresses, but that movie turned out alright. We don’t have to over-analyze every single event looking for social injustice… do we?
Anyway, at first look, the Pan trailer present a colorful vision that should easily catch the eyes of children, as well as a different-enough take on the story that could attract some curious adults, as well. Enjoy these character posters, and note how much better Jackman looks without the wig.
Pan opens on June 16, 2015.
The story of an orphan who is spirited away to the magical Neverland. There, he finds both fun and dangers, and ultimately discovers his destiny — to become the hero who will be forever known as Peter Pan.
hugh jackman joe wright levi miller pan rooney mara