Five Children and It

Five Children and It is a delightfully magical adventure film released in 2004, directed by John Stephenson and stars the gifted young actor Freddie Highmore along with the accomplished Tara Fitzgerald and Alex Jennings. The film is an adaption of the famous children's book 'Five Children and It' written by E. Nesbit, which has been much loved by generations since its first publication in 1902. Set in the backdrop of early 20th century England, this cinematic version brings the whimsy and charm of the book to life with a refreshing twist.

The events of the film follow the Darling family comprising five children - Cyril (Jonathan Bailey), Anthea (Jessica Claridge), Robert (Freddie Highmore), the youngest, the Lamb, and their teenage sister, Jane (Poppy Rogers). With their father (Kenneth Branagh) off to war and their mother (Tara Fitzgerald) occupied in her own way, the children are ushered off to the residence of their eccentric uncle, Albert (Alex Jennings). Reluctantly adapting to their new home, the brood is in for a thrilling turn of events when they stumble upon an enchanted creature living in the sandpit on the estate.

The mysterious and elusive entity, referred to as 'It,' is a sand fairy, also known as a Psammead (voiced by the unparalleled Eddie Izzard), with rather peculiar traits and an unusual appearance. The Psammead has the extraordinary power to grant one wish a day—a wish that withers away with the coming of the dusk. The creature itself is a blend of puppetry and CGI, well-crafted and imaginative, that adds a fantastical aura to the film.

The narrative follows the escapades the children embark on, fueled by their daily wishes. These wishes, however, have a knack for going awry, leading to an array of unexpected consequences and hilarious predicaments. The children's choices also serve as a subtle commentary on the nature of desires and the importance of understanding the difference between what you want and what you need.

Freddie Highmore, well-known for his exceptional skills as a child actor, delivers a confident and engaging performance as Robert, navigating the character’s fears, aspirations, and developing maturity as the story unfolds. Tara Fitzgerald anchors the film in the more serious and grounded reality of war-time England, providing a solid emotional compass to the family's dynamic.

Alex Jennings delivers an impeccable performance as Uncle Albert, bringing wit, humor, and a dash of warmth to his offbeat character. Jonathan Bailey and Jessica Claridge as the elder siblings Cyril and Anthea portray their characters with a balanced blend of mischief and wisdom gained from their adventures. Poppy Rogers stands out in her performance as the sophisticated teenager Jane, grappling with the common trials of adolescence amidst the magic.

What sets the film apart is the blend of humour and heart. Each wish grants not only a bout of laughter, but also a lesson learned, a bond strengthened, a fear overcome. It further delves into the idea of the true meaning of family and the significance of unity during challenging times. The film, while staying true to the essence of the original story, also takes liberties in sculpting its characters and plot lines, expertly weaving historical elements into its narrative.

The detailed production design, the stunning locations, and the lush green English countryside lend an enchanting visual appeal to the movie. The vibrant colour palette filled with hints of sepia and nostalgia capture the dream-like quality of the narrative, further complemented by the whimsical score that carries the viewer along the narrative arc.

Five Children and It is a film that equally caters to children and adults, encouraging its audience to retain a sense of magic and wonder in their daily lives while being grounded in their familial relationships and duties. The film's overall charm lies in its simplicity, wit, and the heartwarming portrayal of childhood and familial bonds. It's a must-see for those in search of a feel-good family film, filled with laughter, life lessons, and a touch of wilful wonder.