jeromezaha
I loved Mary Martin like I love Julie Andrews. Growing up in the 80s we had two real versions (possibly only two) of peter pan. Walt Disney's original, and Mary Martin play taped "peter pan" with Cyril Ritchard. I had it on VHS, but it seemed so clear like it was filmed in the 80s. Still looks good. "Spoilers": Never seen the "remake" with Cathy Rigby. I watched Christopher walken as hook. Rhythmically talking, but with more actual singing then Kirk.
echoch1
This thread has some confusing information in it. I think I can add some information.The 1955 version of Peter Pan was done live from NY and then redone the following year. That version was preserved on Kinescope, but not videotape.In 1960, NBC re-staged the production and videotaped it in their wonderful old Brooklyn studios - by the way, I believe that The Cosby Show in the '80s was produced at the same NBC Brooklyn Studios.The 1960 production was videotaped and rebroadcast a number of times, and may be available on VHS now.As the 4-year old son of an NBC publicity flack, I had the wonderful privilege of attending the taping of the show and I have a magnificent b&w photograph of me, in a gray flannel suit - in gray shorts no less - with Mary Martin in full costume.It is one of the treasures of my childhood and Peter Pan has always been a favorite of mine.By the way, there is/was a cast recording of Peter Pan - I want to say that it was on RCA Victor records, since of course, RCA owned NBC. But I have always been under the impression that is was of the Broadway play. This thread implies that the show never made it to Broadway, so I am not sure. However, I am certain that there was a record - vinyl, 33 1/3, long play, etc."I know a place where dreams are born...."Eric
cynthiano
I agree that the lead character of "Peter Pan" was masterfully played by the late Mary Martin. The dance routines with the "Indians" were very humorous, but may be considered racist today, especially since the chief was played by a blond (Sondra Lee). My children particularly liked the music and singing. Also they were thrilled with the movie magic of flight, which was pretty good, considering this was a televised stage play from over 40 years ago. I would say the biggest drawback to this movie is also its greatest attribute, which is Peter Pan himself (or herself). My 2 year old kept saying he is a girl. I know it has become a tradition for Peter to be played by a female, but it is rather confusing to young children.
rebeljenn
This version of Peter Pan was, in my opinion, better than the Disney animation. Peter Pan is played by Mary Martin, and the film is made like a theatre production. It was much more enjoyable to watch than the animation, although I never really enjoyed the story of Peter Pan and the lost boys. This film has its charm because of the techniques used in production. It's interactive more than anything else, and the flying scenes are amazing. It is amazing what they could do to create the story, and I guess that is why it is better (in my opinion) than the animation. I would recommend this to children as I think it is enjoyable and I think Mary Martin did a good job.
AD
