First Reactions To 'Peter Pan & Wendy' Call The Film “Mature”

A scene still from Disney's live-action PETER PAN & WENDY, exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2023 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Disney’s latest reimagining of a classic tale, Peter Pan & Wendy arrives on Disney+ this Friday, and critics gave their initial thoughts on the film earlier today. While reactions varied, some praising Ever Anderson’s performance and others noting their surprise at how much they enjoyed the film. Peter Pan & Wendy arrives on Disney+ on Friday, April 28 at 12:00 AM PST alongside reviews of the film. View some of the reactions to Peter Pan & Wendy below:

Next Best Picture’s Daniel Howat praised the film for the maturity it brings to the adaptation.

Yes, #PeterPanAndWendy is still just another version of an overly familiar story, but David Lowery brings a surprising maturity to it.

That, along with some gorgeous music and stunning visual moments, make this a pleasant, magical surprise overall. pic.twitter.com/LkhhwO243k

— Daniel Howat (@howatdk) April 24, 2023

Zach Pope commented on how the film maintains the same aura of the original animated feature.

#PeterPanAndWendy is GREAT!

David Lowery showcases the best of his ability while crafting a throwback to early 2000’s Fairytale movies mixing depth but also

Never forgetting the essence of what made the animated feature so magical!

Count me as a fan! pic.twitter.com/dnWurwqzjJ

— Zach Pope (@popetheking) April 24, 2023

Streamr’s Managing Editor Josh Martin-Jones noted director David Lowery’s creative vision for the film.

Lowery’s vision is clear and he's done a good job at bringing this well-known story to life. The film has some stunning landscape shots throughout.

Alexander Molony makes for a wonderful Peter Pan whilst Ever Anderson has some great moments as Wendy. #PeterPanAndWendy pic.twitter.com/KVnyqKmTEA

— Josh Martin-Jones (@JoshM_Jones) April 24, 2023

Sarah El-Mahmoud of CinemaBlend gave the entire cast praise, noting Jude Law’s Captain Hook as the standout.

I'm happy #PeterPanAndWendy exists. The entire cast is wonderful, with Jude Law especially fantastic as a more grounded Hook. Lowery balances Disney nods with sweet & deep new angles for the story. I'm mixed on it overall, it missed some opps for more epic Neverland adventure! pic.twitter.com/K2dgr8O1aY

— sarah el-mahmoud (@sarah_elmahmoud) April 20, 2023

I was surprised how much I enjoyed #PeterPanAndWendy. The film does a good job at diving in to the backstories of Peter & Hook, which I think adds to the lure. I really enjoyed Jude Law’s performance as Hook and Ever Anderson is brilliant as Wendy, who is real star of the film. pic.twitter.com/cWN9THzd9o

— Joseph Deckelmeier (@joedeckelmeier) April 20, 2023

I'm completely shocked to admit how much I enjoyed Peter Pan & Wendy! Sure, it's the same story, but this one somehow feels more mature. Peter & Hook's past relationship adds a lot more heart to it, while Ever Anderson brings something new to Wendy. #PeterPanAndWendy pic.twitter.com/YzBkg40eHB

— Tessa Smith - Mama's Geeky (@MamasGeeky) April 24, 2023