Looking back at the careers of Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy, it can be hard to find a lot of joyful stuff. Obviously, Garfield played Spider-Man for a few years so that’s not completely the case. And there’s something inspirational to be found in their previous film together, 2017’s Breathe, about a disabled man overcoming life’s challenges. But in terms of experiences that are purely innocent, sweet, and allowing for them to have fun like kids, The Magic Faraway Tree was something they both had needed for a long time.
That was the sentiment I got while talking with Garfield and Foy about The Magic Faraway Tree, a contemporary adaptation of Enid Blyton’s beloved book about a family who flee the city to the English countryside. There, they discover a magic forest and a giant tree that can transport them to many wondrous worlds full of extraordinary people.
In my conversation with Garfield and Foy, we talked about The Magic Faraway Tree being a kind of escape for them. We also talked about how the film is placed in a modern setting where kids are too occupied with their smartphones and tablets to experience the world around them. And, of course, I had to ask them which of the many worlds in the story they’d love the most: a world of desserts or birthdays? Desserts for me, please!
I also spoke with director Ben Gregor on the challenge of bringing a book beloved by millions to the big screen.
The Magic Faraway Tree is in theaters now! Check out my interview below, and the review here!
