Review: ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children’ Tim Burton has created a relatable illusion and fantasy

In recent years there have been a number of young adult book to film adaptations – some have been terrible and others okay, but very rarely have there been adaptations that do the original concept any justice. The latest film to feel the wrath of the book to film franchise business is ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children’, adapted from the novel by Ransom Riggs. With direction from Tim Burton, and screenwriting from Jane Goldman – this franchise was in safe hands.

‘Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children’ is focused around Jake a teenager who manages to piece together clues from his Grandfather Abe, that lead him to an alternate reality. Through the manipulation of time and space, Jake finds a secret refuge for ‘peculiars’. The longer Jake spends in this home learning about the children and their special powers – he also begins to discover his true self, and his own peculiarity.

At times, Asa Butterfield (Jake) comes across as monotone but I couldn’t help but root for him and his happiness throughout the film. Eva Green (Miss Peregrine) amongst her love for her peculiar children also radiates a seriousness in her role. (I think that’s down to Tim Burton’s directing style though.) Samuel L. Jackson (Mr. Barron) adds quirk and humour with his passive aggressive witty one-liners.

Although not on screen, Tim Burton is the true star of this film. How? With his distinctive style, and ability to transport watchers into his weird and wonderful alternate universe. To think Tim Burton started his directing on ‘Pee-wee’s Big Adventure’ (1985) is strange, but isn’t surprising. Is it? He has become a modern day auteur, and built a reputation for his gothic, dark fantasy family films. ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children’ is the perfect example, and I couldn’t imagine anyone else directing it. It stands out to me as Tim Burton reminding everyone that he is back and better than ever.

Overall? ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children’ is a family film that breaks convention stereotypes, and focuses on the human experience. Sharing the messages of saying goodbye, growing up and manipulating time in the process – Tim Burton has created a relatable illusion and fantasy.

5/5

‘Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children’ is out everywhere from September 30. 

Featured image courtesy of Think Jam.