Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare is a bold and macabre reimagining of J.M. Barrie’s beloved tale, directed and written by Scott Jeffrey, who continues to redefine public domain stories in the horror genre. As the third installment in The Twisted Childhood Universe (TCU), the 2025 British independent film expands the series’ trademark style with a darkly creative and unsettling take on Peter Pan. With standout performances, commendable production values, and a uniquely twisted narrative, the film delivers a compelling experience for horror fans.
The story centers on Wendy Darling (Megan Placito), who embarks on a desperate quest to rescue her brother, Michael (Peter DeSouza-Feighoney), from the clutches of an unhinged Peter Pan (Martin Portlock) and a drug-addicted, reimagined Tinkerbell (Kit Green). The plot doesn’t shy away from its grim premise—Peter’s abduction of children under the guise of taking them to "Neverland" becomes a chilling metaphor for predation, with flashbacks revealing his brutal origins and unhinged nature.
Portlock’s portrayal of Peter Pan is a standout. His performance oscillates between whimsical and terrifying, channeling shades of Heath Ledger’s Joker, Ethan Hawke’s Grabber from The Black Phone, and even Freddy Krueger. With his scarred face, lip-licking mannerisms, and menacing unpredictability, Portlock’s Peter is equal parts captivating and disturbing. Megan Placito’s Wendy shines as a tough, resourceful protagonist who refuses to give up, even when faced with unimaginable horrors. Her fear and determination are palpable, especially during the film’s most intense sequences.
The supporting cast adds depth to the narrative. Kit Green’s portrayal of Tinkerbell—a transgender character addicted to what she believes is fairy dust—is both unexpected and effective, offering a tragic perspective on Peter’s manipulative cruelty. The layered performances, especially from the ensemble, help elevate the film beyond its budgetary constraints.
Visually, Neverland Nightmare is a cut above many of its indie horror peers. The makeup and gore effects are gruesome and convincing, with brutal deaths that will satisfy even seasoned gore enthusiasts. From a shocking scalping scene in the opening minutes to the climactic showdown, the violence is unapologetically graphic, reminiscent of the Terrifier franchise. The production design deserves praise, as each room in Peter’s lair becomes progressively more nightmarish, enhancing the oppressive atmosphere.
Jeffrey’s direction shows a thoughtful balance of grounded storytelling and occasional fantasy elements. This approach gives the film a grim sense of realism while keeping viewers guessing. The second act is particularly strong, featuring suspenseful sequences that had me on the edge of my seat. The nods to Barrie’s original story—including a chilling cameo by Captain Hook—ground the film in its source material while reimagining it in disturbing ways.
The film is far from Hitchcock, but it does offer enough twists and reveals to keep audiences engaged. The decision to expand the cast and story scope, as opposed to the confined settings of Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey, feels refreshing. The pacing is just right, ensuring the narrative remains gripping without overstaying its welcome.
That said, a few lingering questions remain by the film’s end, setting the stage for potential sequels. Given the genuine effort and creativity displayed here, it’s easy to root for Jeffrey to continue exploring twisted takes on classic tales.
Though Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare is undeniably dark and far from whimsical, it retains enough fantasy to remind us of its origins. For fans of reimagined fairy tales and brutal horror, this film is a bloody treat. I’m curious to see where Jeffrey takes the TCU next, with Bambi and Pinocchio on the horizon. If this film is any indication, we’re in for more nightmarish delights.
Jessie Hobson