Marc Forster’s “Finding Neverland” is an example of the best that cinema has to offer. Not only is the film a triumph in its own right, but it is also proof that Miramax has returned to doing what the company does best — making great movies on small budgets.

“Finding Neverland” tells the story of Scottish playwright J.M. Barrie (Johnny Depp) who, after a chance encounter with Sylvia Llewelyn Davies (Kate Winslet) and her four boys in a park, strikes up an unlikely friendship with the family. They spend the summer together, and the events inspire Barrie to create the classic “Peter Pan.”

The movie’s performances feel utterly convincing and tragically intimate. Depp leads the way in his second Oscar-nominated role — he marvelously conveys the quiet constraint of a man forced to grow up too soon. As astounding as Depp’s portrayal is, the young actors who play the Davies boys steal the show. Freddie Highmore, playing Peter, delivers a performance so captivating and engrossing that becomes heartbreaking. Additional turns from screen legends like Dustin Hoffman and Julie Christie make this movie truly memorable.

Forster (“Monster’s Ball”) should be commended for seamlessly including many allusions to the “Peter Pan” story without making them feel forced. On the contrary, they’re quite compulsory and well placed. In a movie that could easily be overdone, Forster’s deft directing never lets the film stray for a moment.

After “Finding Neverland” was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including a win for Best Original Score, it’s surprising that Miramax didn’t include more features on the DVD. However, those included are excellent: full-length commentary, outtakes, deleted scenes and a featurette exploring the production of the film. The featurette shows how a number of the great scenes in the film were constructed, oftentimes in unorthodox ways.

In a year full of biopics, “Finding Neverland” stands out as one of the best. The winner of the National Board of Review’s Best Picture honor, “Neverland” blends classic Hollywood style and contemporary filmmaking to create a movie that enthralls and entertains. In a movie filled with great shots, the haunting emotion displayed by Highmore in the final scene will linger with viewers long after the credits roll. “Finding Neverland” is one of the most charming films of 2004, and the DVD reflects it.

Ratings:

Movie: 4 out of 5 stars

Picture/Sound: 4 out of 5 stars

Special Features: 3 out of 5 stars