Neverwas (2005)

Psychiatrist Zach Riley (Aaron Eckhart) takes a job at Millwood Mental Hospital in order to learn more about the place that failed his author father (Nick Nolte). Schizophrenic Gabriel Fisher (Ian McKellen) is certain that Zachary is there to rescue him for the dungeon and return him to his kingdom in Neverwas. Returning to Millwood has a great effect on Zach. But does Gabriel hold the key to his father’s secrets or is he losing all grip on reality?

Fantasy and reality blend in this magical atmospheric drama. Sir Ian McKellen is riveting as the multi-facted protagonist. Eckhart manages the evolution of lost child to redeemed man beautifully. Supporting actors William Hurt, Alan Cumming, Vera Farmiga, Brittany Murphy, and Jessica Lang provide a myriad of characters that serve to further highlight the human pathos herein.

As I see it, Neverwas is an understated gem that deserves a look.  Equal parts Bridge to Terebithia and J.R.R. Tolkein, Neverwas is a fantastical journey inside reality.