The Magic Faraway Tree, a new film adaptation of Enid Blyton’s classic children’s novel, is a beautiful and sincere movie that will inspire children and parents alike. Written by comedian Simon Farnaby—the screenwriter behind such modern children’s classics as Paddington 2 and Wonka—the film follows the city-based Thompson family, who relocate to a rural farmhouse in the English countryside. The family’s 3 screen-addicted kids struggle with the change and, when exploring the forest on their new property, stumble across a magical tree filled with benevolent supernatural beings that they befriend.
Acclaimed TV director Ben Gregor tries his hand at feature-making to great success. His directorial instincts are sharp, and he masterfully balances his film’s tone between comedic adventure romp and heartwarming family story. The performances of the cast are wonderful, particularly Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy’s, who bring incredible warmth to their roles as the Thompson parents. Billie Gadson as Fran, the youngest daughter of the Thompson family, is also a treat, giving a genuinely excellent child performance that cements her as a young actor to watch. Nicola Coughlan and Rebecca Ferguson—as a friendly fairy and an evil magic queen, respectively—are excellent with their limited screen time and make the film’s world feel fleshed out and lived in.
The film is an ode to childlike wonder, and stresses the importance of refusing to allow that wonder to be beaten out of you by societal expectations. It is a message that is important for kids to hear, and is sure to resonate with parents too. Overall, The Magic Faraway Tree is a charming and poignant new addition to children’s cinema canon—run, don’t walk, to see it.
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