#14 Peter Pan

Disney's take on another beloved English classic, Peter Pan strives to define itself apart from its source material (and the parade of other adaptations). Eschewing the stage tradition of having Peter Pan played by a woman, the studio cast frequent Disney star Bobby Driscoll in the title role, drawing him as decidedly male (though admittedly elfin). This adaptation also dispenses with some of the darker elements of J.M. Barrie's work in favor of light, escapist adventure.

And it's quite the adventure to be had. Peter Pan seems determined to capture every childhood fantasy in one film: learning to fly, a wild, untamed island to explore, fighting pirates, the prospect of never having to grow up. The voice casting is superb; the endlessly charming Kathryn Beaumont returns as Wendy, and the rest of the cast achieve the rare feat of having child voice actors that are all talented, giving their characters distinct personality without falling into the "annoying child actor" trap. Captain Hook, meanwhile, earns a spot in the pantheon of Disney villains, characterized by a mix of piratical swagger and theatrical flamboyance.

While there's plenty of fun and adventure at hand, other aspects of the film stick out as glaringly antiquated - specifically, its treatment of the Indians. They're all grossly caricatured, invoking every bad stereotype about Native Americans, and treated as little more than an amusing sideshow. The character designs are either ugly or cartoonish, with the exception of Tiger Lily, who only exists to be captured, rescued, and then dance around looking pretty. On the subject, the film isn't great with its treatment of women, either; Tinkerbell and the mermaids all become homicidally jealous at the mere presence of Wendy, who manages to be a solid, level-headed character until Tiger Lily enters the picture, and then she stalks off in a huff as well. What exactly is it about Peter Pan that seems to make every woman around him become obsessed with him?

At its core, the story of Peter Pan is a timeless one, touching on quintessential childhood fantasies and themes that most people can relate to. While this take on it may have aged poorly in some respects, there's plenty to appreciate about it as well. While Disney's own 2003 live-action take recaptured the spirit of the tale without the 1950's baggage, it might be worth revisiting in animated form; with such a universally appealing narrative, Peter Pan provides plenty for imaginative artists (and audiences) to work with.