 THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
MPAA Rating:
 for battle sequences and frightening momentsReviewed by: Chris Monroe Good
Moviemaking Quality:
 Primary Audience:
Family, Kids
but not very young children Genre:
Fantasy, Action/Adventure, Kids/Family
Length:
2 hr. 20 min.
Year of Release:
2005
         Relevant Issues
Our INTERVIEW with the director and producer, plus the White Witch How can I be (and feel) forgiven for what I’ve done wrong? Answer If God forgives me every time I ask, why do I still feel so guilty? Answer 
If God created Satan, and Satan is evil, is evil God’s fault? Answer What is the Christian perspective on war? Answer 
“There are a thousand stories in the land of Narnia… The first is about to be told.” Finally, the long awaited, much anticipated adaptation of the beloved children’s story from The Chronicles of Narnia come to the big screen. This second of seven books from the series authored by C.S. Lewis over fifty years ago creates the substance with which this film, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe mystifies, mesmerizes, enlightens and entertains anyone who is willing to embrace it. Doors to your imagination will unavoidably be opened — as might a door to your very heart and soul. A wonderful adventure. An illustrious biblical metaphor. A beautiful Christmas story. A captivating fantasy. From the very heart of renowned Christian apologetic C.S. Lewis is the story of four children, Peter (William Moseley), Susan (Anna Popplewell), Edmund (Skandar Keynes) and Lucy (Georgie Henley) who discover a world they would have never thought possible. It’s World War II and these siblings are sent away for safe keeping into the English countryside to stay with a delightful old professor (Jim Broadbent) until danger subsides at their home in London. But after an unexpected discovery in the back of a coat closet, Lucy introduces her brothers and sister to a realm of make-believe that is more fun than any fantasy and more real than life and death. It is a world that provides friends and enemies, battles and betrayals, family unity and sacrifice, and a promise to become a king or queen. But is the film The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe like the book? Director Andrew Adamson (Shrek, Shrek II) says that what you get from the book is what you will get from the movie. This does not mean Adamson did not make changes, however (see our interview article for more on this). But this movie has been made by all kinds of different people and companies, from all different backgrounds and walks of life and various worldviews. Did not some things have to change in order for a movie like this to be released into the mainstream media? Yes, there are changes, but ardent fans that have cherished these books for decades can rest assured knowing that these filmmakers remain faithful to its origins. The characters, storyline, themes and creativity all remain intact from the original charming children’s story. For those who have not read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe there may be questions as to what kind of children’s story this is exactly, involving battles and betrayals, a White Witch and “deep magic.” Is this just more Harry Potter? No, it is not, and it is definitely a story for kids (perhaps no younger than 7) - as well as for anyone who is willing to become like a child and enjoy it. Like so many great stories, this one is not about glorifying what is evil, but instead showing the triumph of what is good. There is the evil White Witch (Tilda Swinton), but there is also the great Lion and King of Narnia, Aslan (voice of Liam Neeson), whom Swinton describes as the “epitome of all good.” One of the producing companies for this film is Disney, and as with so many of their children’s stories there is a noble effort to filter violence and curtail any incident that could be harmful or disturbing for younger kids. For instance, on different occasions when someone is killed, the incident is inferred rather than being gratuitously depicted. There are depictions of wounds being incurred during the furious battle scene, but there is no recollection of any blood being shown. The moments go by quick and should not be too overwhelming. The most frightening moment, however, is when Aslan goes to the stone table and passes through a host of scary creatures. So what is it with this story that believers in Christ are so eager to connect? Is there a deeper meaning? Is the “deep magic” a reference to something else? Producer Mark Johnson (Rain Man, Avalon, The Rookie, The Notebook) says that so many of them read these books as kids and only thought of it as a good children’s story. But, Johnson says, C.S. Lewis was obviously a Christian, as well as a Christian writer, and states, “If you want to find all kinds of Christian symbolism in it, it’s certainly there.” Without going through the entire movie and interpreting point for point what those parallels are, suffice it to say that significant metaphors resound throughout this story, namely having the faith of a child, the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, as well as His resurrection from the dead, resulting in salvation for sinners. Is the goal then for making The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to produce a “Christian” movie? Perhaps for some, but, as Johnson also points out, C.S. Lewis himself said that his book was not a “Christian” book. If you are a believer in Christ, you will most likely see the parallels to Jesus and the Gospel, but this movie can certainly be enjoyed by anyone who watches it. If you are not familiar with the Gospel, but are somehow intrigued or interested, this story is a very delightful way to open up your heart and mind to it in an indirect way and cause you to consider the Good News as you may never have before. Further, in light of the Gospel, it is highly appropriate that The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a children’s story, because as Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3, NIV). Lucy is the youngest of the four children, and also the first to discover Narnia. When I asked actress Georgie Henley, who plays Lucy, what she liked best about her character, she said, “I loved her because she is so pure; very, very pure — and I think that is a gorgeous quality to have.” This movie is a faithful adaptation and provides high quality, wholesome entertainment. You may not get everything from the movie that you get from the book, but the essence is there. It feels like there is more heart that comes through in the book, but while watching the film there is still the feeling of a grandfather divulging a significant tale to his grandchildren. Fans of the book should not be disappointed, and when considering a movie for the family at Christmas time, this one will refresh and delight like the first fall of winter snow. Violence: Mild / Profanity: None / Sex/Nudity: None Year of Release — 2005 / USA release: December 9, 2005 (wide).
 POSITIVE
Positive - …This movie leaves you hanging by the edge of your seat from the opening scene to the closing credits. I was so impressed with the rendering of the animals via the computer animation. The animals portrayed very human-like expressions, like looking sad or happy. It seemed very believable. The actors who portrayed Peter, Susan, Edmund,and Lucy were convincing in their roles. There is no indecency or vulgarity in it. Even though it is compelling and decent to watch, there are some cautions that parents need to know. Positive - My 12 and 14 year old sons, husband and I saw this film together last night at a 'sneak peak.' How refreshing! The splendidly done film stayed true to the book! It was perfectly cast (adorable children!), great acting, and wonderful effects. I refuse to believe those animals were computer generated! Of course, the message behind the story was the best part. This film was more than a '5' — a must see for everyone! Discover more!
   What will the biblical Millennium be like? (the future thousand-year reign of Christ on earth) 
Coloring page: The lion and the lamb Article: “Narnia” Co-Producer is an active Christian (in our Christian Film News section) Positive - As I heard Narnia for the first time as a child, I sat with sketching pad and pencil in hand, drawing the wonderful worlds the author painted in my mind. Years later, these images remain as strong as they once were, in a book as familiar to me as a wind’s somber whisper. The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe was one of, if not the, favorite book of my childhood. When I learned my favorite story of all time was coming to the silver screen, I prayed it would be wonderful. I was not disappointed. Positive - …'Does the cinematic version of… do justice to the literary masterpiece written by CS Lewis?'. We all stood by in questioning anticipation prior to the release of 'The Passion of the Christ', wondering how Hollywood or shall I say, Mel Gibson would represent Jesus Christ. Then the world dropped their jaw at the gut-wrenching sacrifice that Christ went through and the impact the movie depiction had on the world. Collectively and as one unified body, we all lifted our hands in praise and delight. Now we have the Chronicles of Narnia, which was intended to not only be an escape into the land of fantasy and fun but a teaching mechanism to show the sacrifice and love that Jesus has for mankind. The question of the movie giving credibility to CS Lewis and the Bible is nothing less than a resounding YES! The movie in my opinion, will be compared to the Passion of the Christ and may in fact reach more people because of its rating and storyline. I sincerely hope at least. I was asked by someone after the movie, if I felt the film was an 'in your face' approach to the Christian aspect of the movie. My answer was ' If you can can’t see Christ in this movie then you must be blind. You cannot get more in your face than this movie.' CS Lewis’s character 'Aslan' is hitting the mainstream in movie format will show that Jesus’s name in fictional format will give Jesus Christ His do credence. Positive - …I am one of the judges for the Heartland Film Festival that screens films for their Truly Moving Picture Award. A Truly Moving Picture '…explores the human journey by artistically expressing hope and respect for the positive values of life.' Heartland gave that award to this film. Positive - …I had the great privilege yesterday of seeing the highly anticipated The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe from Disney/Walden. I haven’t been so eager to see a film since The Passion of the Christ, nor felt the same sense of relief and joy! The movie is lovely.Narnia is a wonderland. The kids are going to love it. They are going to want to walk through that wardrobe with Lucy time after time.the tone of LW&W is as close to the book as probably could have been achieved. All the lines the Christians are worrying about are in there. All the scenes you want to see are here and lovingly rendered. So everybody can relax and get ready to enjoy…I personally cried every moment Aslan was on the screen…People were saying 8 year olds could handle it fine. I agree. But I also think littler kids should go…Bring your kids to see The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe! Bring them again!”… Positive - This film was simply amazing. 'Twas an epic… a thrill ride from start to finish. It was wholesome — a good, edifying film. I felt uplifted by this film; nowadays, my spirit is affected by the mire of language, sensuality, etc. common to so many movies these days. In fact, the rhetoric in this masterpiece was pure and even eloquent at times. The war violence is not gratuitous nor prolonged. Positive - …Just over a week ago, a team from the Mission America Coalition joined other leaders from around the country to view a rough cut of The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe… They got it right… The imagery of this film is compelling, as is the opportunity to explain its true meaning to seekers in our own generation…we urge churches and ministries to take full advantage of the movie’s release… Aslan is on the move.… Positive - …At the Disney lot I recently saw a full, rough cut version of Walden Media’s new film The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. I went in with some trepidation, wondering whether the heart of the story would be left intact. I was not only satisfied that it was; I felt the redemptive message was even stronger than I’d hoped.… Positive - …This film has everything Christians have sought in a movie - it is well-written, well-acted and it contains a solid metaphor for Jesus Christ in the person of Aslan the lion that is subtle enough to stimulate conversation with unbelievers. It is a powerful film. I saw it last Friday night at a screening in New York and tears came to my eyes; not only because of the content, but because Walden Media and Disney have teamed up to give us something we can cheer and support.…” Positive - …The movie was very well cast and the computer characters and effects were of high caliber. The music was over all good, although sometimes it was hard to hear what the lyrics were. I frankly think that it should have been rated somewhere between PG and PG-13 because several of the moments are tense, frightening, or just down right creepy. I was impressed how there was also an amazing amount of humor that helped to make the film lighter. I loved Mr. and Mrs. Beaver! I was shocked at some of the parents in the audience for bringing their children who were 2-6 years old (all I can say is 'not my child' when I’m a parent). Honestly, I would not think of bringing a child any younger than 10 years old to view it. Also be aware of the fact that you should bring Kleenex to the theatre, for I was regretting several times that I didn’t bring any. The one main thing which disturbed me was the scene where Aslan is killed by the White Witch. It is an incredibly moving section, and I wanted to jump up and present the Gospel to the audience, for I know that some of the families there only thought of it as 'good children’s literature.' Oh, the simple truth that ONE really did love us 'traitors' so much that He did sacrifice Himself…and then rose from the dead! Positive - I took my two daughters (10 and 8) out of school to see this movie. We’ve been watching the preparations for almost 2 years and have been praying fervently that it would change lives in the viewers. Great movie. Positive - I am a huge fan of the books and was eagerly awaiting this movie. It did not disappoint in the least! The Chronicles of Narnia is one of the my favorite series, and I was so pleased that my favorite book, Lion Witch and Wardrobe, remained accurate and true to CS Lewis' vision. …the actors were all wonderful and true to what I had imagined them to be. I enjoyed watching the movie and reading the books to find the allegory of Christ and everytime I re-read and watch the movies I find more. It keeps the book alive and also represents the growth of my faith. It was nice to see a movie that is fun and so spiritual, if you take the time to look for it. I hope the growing trend in Hollywood is to produce more movies like this one! I recommend this movie for all ages (except very young) and for both fans of the series and people new to Narnia! Positive - Having waited for this movie for five years , since I first heard about a screenplay in the works. To all the amazing sneak peaks, my deepest fear was that Chronicles would be like the Disney versions of Madelene L’Engle’s books. Thankfully my fears are un founded. Have seen this movie twice, I could not be more thrilled on the acting, special effects, and of course Aslan. The acting and screenplay are fantastic (for there was talk of making this set in California and having the turkish delight be cheese burgers), the highlight is the adding of scenes for Mr. Tumnus’s character. James McAvey and Georgie Henely are amazing together, and they really portray the friendship much better then the book does. Aslan is so beautifully cinemized, it is impossible to take your eyes off of him during the scenes he is in. All in all, nothing can be said to detract from this movie, it is pure cinematic, and movie adaptation genius, and hopefully we will see more Chronicles of Narnia movies in the near future. Positive - Fantastic! Well worth the wait! Disney has positively surprised! Excellent moral rating: inspite of scary creatures on the witch’s side — evil is ugly and should be frightening! Not for children under 7 or 8. (I sat next to a family with a 5 or 6 year old that cried repeatedly at the evil guys — not fun for her parents or those close by). Left out a few things and add a few things (including adding scripture at a pivotal point! Amen!), but the story and message remains well intact. Highly enjoyable by all ages - not just a children’s movie! Wonderful cast! Repeatedly watchable! Positive - INCREDIBLE MOVIE - From the animation, the story telling, the acting, the adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s writing, etc. …Throughout the movie I continued to think about Christ and the sacrifice he made for me, which is what C.S. Lewis intended. It amazed me that Disney put this picture out without tampering with the story or trying to hide/avoid the meaning behind the story. Like I said 'INCREDIBLE MOVIE' Positive - …The first book in the Chronicles of Narnia is The Magician’s Nephew which tells the story of how Narnia came to be. How the White Witch came to be there and what started the whole thing. From the creation to the fall of Adam to how the wardrobe came to be where it ended up.… Positive - …It was well done, with great effects, and a very plausible story-line. They certainly captured the heart of the movie. I intend to go again. For standing on a fence, it is a truly magnificent, grand and spectacular film. I imagined the events in the book, but the makers of a movie have a more vivid imagination than I do, and they made it more wonderful than I had imagined. I loved how they worked statues, and winter, and the size & depth of Narnia. They capture the essence of the beavers well. I like how they made giants, and they also made non vaporware bad-guys. They were plausible, and strong enough to be an adversary, something that many tales lack. It was very well done. Positive - …I loved it, my kids loved it, my husband loved it. I read this as a child, read it to my daughter (the whole series) when she was 9, and now am in the third book with my son who is now 9. This movie, with some minor changes, remained intact with the message intended clearly given. I pray my non-Christian friends watch this movie and start asking me questions so we may all have the hope and peace of knowing that life on Earth is not all there is to living…'It is finished'! Positive - Amazing! I took my 14, 12 and 5 year old to see this movie. I was hesitant to take my five year old because of the death of Aslan I knew was sure to be shown. My husband and I are extremely careful about what we allow our our children to see, but we felt this was a good parable for our 5 yr. old to see, so she could liken it to the story of Jesus — we could use it as a teaching tool. Positive - Narnia was truly a fantastic film from start to finish! The acting (all by mostly unknowns) was superb, the effects fantastic, and the story totally engrossing. I find it sad that some secular critics have trashed this film as 'nothing more than a Christian tract'. The movie was made to faithfully realize C.S. Lewis’s vision, and does just that. It doesn’t cram anything down anyone’s throat, but Christians will appreciate the symbolism and allegorical references to Christ and forgiveness. Any adventure or fantasy fan will appreciate this movie. For younger viewers, I urge some caution, however, as the battle scenes are intense, and the various creatures could definitely be frightening to children. I must say, while I am not the type to be easily offended by objectionable content in films, it is always refreshing to see a movie succeed on such a tremendous level without resorting to language, sexuality, or excessive violence. Narnia has my vote for Best Picture this year! Positive - There are many things in life that are risky. It could be argued there are few things more risky than to take a classic novel and turn it into a screenplay. We saw this with Lord of the Rings. There was a lot of excitement surrounding the news of not one, but three movies being made for this trilogy, but it was coupled with apprehension. Questions were being asked. Are these movies going to stand up to the novel? Are the changes that were made going to adversely affect the story? If you can’t fit the whole novel in the movie, what are they going to leave out? Positive - The film as a whole was superb. I only wish that they had given it more time to develop the characters a little more (Aslan especially). I was relieved to see how well Lucy came across. The actress who portrayed Lucy without a doubt upped the film’s quality by several notches. I was also delighted to see James McAvoy (Rory O’Shea Was Here) as Tumnus. He was perfect for this role. Positive - My family and our friend’s family went to see Narnia this afternoon not knowing quite what to expect. We love the Narnia books and Focus on the Family Radio drama and were sort of worried about there being a watering down of the story and it’s closeness to the Gospel, and magic being promoted above truth and morality. We were therefore thrilled when we watched it this afternoon and saw the how close to the book it actually was and how plainly the death of Aslan reminded us of what Christ did on the cross, dying for us as Aslan died for Edmund. It was beautifully told, funny, charming, no bad words or sexual references, and though some of the battle scenes were a bit scary for the youngest of our group, we were surprised that we never saw any blood, even on Peter’s sword! Positive - Beautifully shot, wonderfully acted film. …The young actors were outstanding and engaging. For my older daughter (age 12), the biblical and spiritual allegories were evident. When we were in the car after the movie, I simply asked “Who was Aslan.” She replied, “Christ.” The witch was mean and Tilda Swinton played the part well. We all were amazed at how seamlessly the movie incorporates human and animal. In the opening battle charge, it is as though the cheetahs are truly running alongside centaurs and King Peter. The themes are many to talk about: sacrifice, when the innocent are harmed, the wrong decisions sin can cause you to make..and the consequences of those decisions, love and devotion to family, empathy for the hurting and weak, hope in the face of insurmountable odds, faith, trusting someone at their word and the need to be faithful to your words, death is a part of the world, second chances provided by a loving Father, and that war (in the children’s life’s in London and in the world of Narnia) is a part of who we are as society. I hope this movie does well for we would like to see sequels from the Narnia Chronicles. Positive - Excellent movie, near perfect transition from book. …I also found myself liking the actors because they don’t seem like actors but real kids, responding in a natural way.… neutral
Neutral - …I usually have no problem with differences between book and movie versions because I recognize that they’re different mediums. However, in this movie, it seemed that they changed all the wrong scenes for all the wrong reasons. Before I continue, let me make one thing clear. You (and your kids) can probably go in and watch this movie on a superficial level and not have a problem with any of the issues that I’m talking about. That’s because I have a very analytical mind and I love to really analyze movies. On this superficial level — just watching it for fun, not really paying attention to details or picking everything apart — it’s a great Christian allegory with no sex, gory violence or bad words. Neutral - C. Gooch’s comments are on the money. I’ve probably read the Chronicles 10 times over since I was age 5 and say quite seriously that they are some of the most important theology (the study of the nature of God) that I’ve ever encountered. The main themes in the book are NOT a) personal empowerment; b) family solidarity; c) love of country; d) courage for freedom’s sake; e) inspiration through prophetic turn of events, etc. Rather, the main theme is the Person of Aslan. Aslan is not just an interesting character—EVERYTHING hinges upon Him. As Lucy sobs in Voyage of the Dawn Treader when Aslan says that they will not return to Narnia again, 'It isn’t Narnia, you know…It’s you…How can we live, never meeting you?' Neutral - After enduring the very long wait for a big budget film adaptation of one of the most beloved books of the last decade, I must confess I am a bit disappointed. Allow me to clarify, as a typical Disney movie I found it perfect. I’ve watched a lot of Disney films over the years and this had Disney’s great acting, directing, and special effects, but it was not the grand epic I had hoped for. I’m not trying to be insensitive, but I found the characters to be somewhat superficial, without the depth say of Lord of the Rings. This will not be an academy award winner, but rather a fantastic book adapted into just another typical Disney production. Absolutely perfect for 8-13 year olds. Disappointment may follow hopeful adults that are expecting more. NEGATIVE
Negative - First let’s list the good things. A lot of believers were worried that the Christian viewpoint of the film would be lost or distorted in the transition to a Hollywood blockbuster type film. It hasn’t been The sacrifice on the stone table, the forgiving of the sinning traitor - it’s all here. The film is very faithful to the book - you could argue overly faithful (they are after all very different media). The cinematography is excellent - great use made of light and color, a refreshing change from the fashionable 'dark' look that many directors afflict their work with, and also with the New Zealand locations. The special effects are great, and by that I mean they make the film look good and help the story along, rather than being just an end in themselves. Jim Broadbent is good as the professor and James McAvoy is VERY good as Mr Tumnus. This is a family film, there’s no sex, nudity, or swearing. The violence (and there’s quite a lot of that in CS Lewis) is toned down so you don’t see any gratuitous blood and gore. Comments from young people
Positive - This is called a 'children’s story,' but that does NOT mean that adults will be bored! (In fact, I was on the edge of my seat for much of the time.) This movie was so good I hope they never have to remake it! I also hope they make the rest of the books into movies, too. It is very encouraging to see something so uplifting come into theatres when the likes of 'Brokeback Mountain' are trying to get to us.… Positive - This movie helped me to understand a little more of the immeasurable and unconditional Love of Christ. I cried during parts of the movie because I couldn’t help but think about how much Jesus had to suffer and go through so much shame for my sake, just like when Aslan sacrificed himself. My reaction after watching The Chronicles of Narnia was, 'Thank You so much, God, for loving me as I am and accepting me as Your own. Thank You for already overcoming Satan and Death on the Cross.' I pray that by watching this movie, many people would come to accept Jesus as their personal Savior. He loves you so much that He gave His one and only Son, that if you only believe in Him, you will not perish but have eternal life. Positive - It can be said that C.S.Lewis would be proud by what the director Adam Anderson did with the first of the seven series chronicles. He reached into The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe with his camera and literally brought to life one of the most beloved classics of all time. Though it stands to be two hours and thirty minutes, I found myself carried far and fast into Narnia, leaving behind the theater seat completely. It’s an absolute feast for the spirit and the imagination. It is a testimony to those who will listen and a message to those who’s hearts are open. Positive - Wow! …incredibly breath-taking from the start to the end. Perfect actors and actresses for the roles. Mr. Taumnus, most delightful and fascinating faun, his character and wholesome friendship with Lucy draws the audience in and captivates. Gentle, always-trying-to be-reasonable Susan inspires. Rebellious, and slightly ornery Edmond pulls at your heart-strings when he stumbles yet is forgiven by his family, and brave-hearted Peter who is asked to grow up far sooner than a child should be, and Aslan, the gentle and forgiving lion who brings the whole movie together. All are intertwined into the story and bring out the focal points of the movie with their wonderful acting skills and realistic human faults. Positive - This movie was amazing! I was worried that with the PG rating they would tame things down and make it too family friendly. I was afraid the story would lose it’s impact. No worries anymore! This movie is so perfect, I can’t imagine how to make it better. If you liked the books, go see this movie. I can’t wait to find out when they’re going to make another book in this series into a movie. However long it takes, it will be worth the wait. Positive - I would just like to say to those of you planning to see The Chronicles of Narnia—SEE IT!
I went to see it…with my dad, brother, friend, uncle, and grandma. Everyone there liked it. I have read the book a long time ago, but my friend who was more 'into' the books (and my daddy) said it was faithful to the books. The costuming was well-done. The music was perfect for the scenes. The acting was good. …The lion (Aslan) was animated, and he looked VERY real. I think some of the animals were real, then some were animated. You could not tell the difference (at least I didn’t). I wouldn’t recommend this movie for little children who get scared easily. My little brother saw it, (he’s 6) but he is a big fan of battle scenes. (We watch a fair amount of historical battle movies.) But if your children are young and get scared easily, I wouldn’t suggest they see it. The witch’s 'helpers' are rather grotesque looking, but you need to remember that they are portraying a fantasy world. There’s no swearing, no sexual innuendo either. Finally, a perfectly clean movie that you can watch without being afraid your children will start repeating phrases from it. (if you know what I mean…) I especially liked the many things that Aslan did and said that seemed like analogies of the Bible, and of what Christ did for us. Very good. …I’m very glad that the movie-makers didn’t cut it out or twist it.)… I highly recommend this movie!! Positive - I LOVED this movie. My school got to see it one day before opening, and I LOVED it. It portrays exactly what Christ did for us. The lion is the symbol of Jesus, and it totally showed what God did for us. I was very very impressed. I truly think families should go see this movie. It had no bad language. Its kind of a mini Lord of the Rings without all the sick creatures. This movie touched me soo much. I seriously wanted to cry. It kind of reminded me of The Passion of Christ. I recommend this movie to all parents. My overall view is super excellent! Good Job Disney! Positive - This movie was SOOOOOOOOO good! It’s very intense, and a great movie for anyone of any age to see. It was clear what the Christian message in the movie was, even to a non-Christian, yet it’s in a fascinating way that you want to watch. The characters were believable, and the computerized characters were so real! Excellent movie! Everyone should see it!! Positive - I am a serious Narnia fan. I’ve read the series several times through, and my friends and I stayed up till midnight on the 8th to watch it on its first showing. I was not disappointed. The quality of filmmaking was excellent. The animals were very well done and the special effects were incredible. The acting was also well done, too. Positive - This is one of the best movies of the year!! I just loved how Aslan quoted Jesus during the entirety of the movie. The movie quality was absolutely incredible, the casting was great, and it had good Christian theology mixed in with it. I also give the director (Andrew Adamson) a big thumbs up for the way he directed it considering he just made Shrek. I give this movie an A++!! Positive - An excellent film! C.S. Lewis' classic tale is portrayed accurately in the movie. I have never seen a movie so close to a book it was 'based' upon! As with most films, two hours is not enough to give all of the background into the details of narnia like 'deep' and 'deeper' magic, which was not fully explained in the film. If Walden Media and the director decide to continue with the sequels, there should be ample opportunity to fill all the gaps. I feel this classic has something for everyone. Mr. and Mrs. Beaver have repartees that adults will pickup on, while children are entertained by the magic of the world in the wardrobe. An instant classic and favorite! Positive - Everything in this movie was great! One of the best movies I have ever seen. It has some humor, action without gore, no vulgarity, no hint of sexual immorality,a good storyline without boredom, and good dialogue. C.S. Lewis’s Christian worldview shines right through as with the book. …The whole family will enjoy it. The entire church will enjoy this film! Positive - The movie 'Narnia' was everything I hoped it would be. It was AWESOME!! It was a bit scary for little kids, like the part at the stone table. It didn’t scare me because I have read all the books, and knew what to expect. Believe me, they didn’t change a thing! Please do not miss 'Narnia'. It is the best movie I have ever seen! Positive - This, along with 'Star Wars 3' was my absolute favorite movie this year! It was excellent. I felt that it pushed the PG rating as far as it can go with violence, but there was nothing else objectionable at all! The characters were very easy to warm up to and love. It was much too scary for young children, but everyone else should love it. I felt Liam Neeson’s voice gave the Aslan character a stern yet loving feel that made you fall in love with him. There were also some humorous lines that weren’t offensive or cheesy. They really made you laugh! If there was a rating better than positive than I would definitely give it to this movie. Go see it, but leave the young children at home. Positive - First off I would like to say that this movie does in fact follow the book almost completely. I personally thought that it was better than LOTR. As for the allegory and such, I thought it was very well done, frankly you could almost compare parts of the movie to parts of the Bible, with a clear cut Satan and a clear cut Jesus. One reviewer stated that if you wanted to see a movie with a clearer allegorical aspect towards the Bible watch LOTR. I personally would disagree with this… In all honesty I couldn’t see nearly as much clear cut allegory to the Bible or the Christian walk as this movie. As a matter of fact, JRR Tolkein didn’t even like allegory; In his forward to the work Tolkien expressed his dislike of allegory: 'As for any inner meaning or 'message', it has in the intention of the author none. It is neither allegorical nor topical' Don’t get me wrong, I know he was a strong Christian man and loved God with all of his heart, but maybe he wasn’t actually trying to put allegorical meaning into his stories the way Lewis did. Any movie can be taken and given allegory from an outside source, takes Star Wars for example: good side, bad side — many people thought it was a reference to the Christian life; we know this isn’t the case. This particular movie, however was not dulled down, Aslan lays down his life for someone that doesn’t deserve it, and defeats death and devil… Positive - I’m a long-time fan of Narnia and have read all the books. My friend and I waited in line for an hour to get good seats (we were excited) and weren’t disappointed. Of course, no movie is better than the books, but this one followed the book very closely.… Neutral - …I also think they could have made it focus more on Aslan. Because there is a lot more meaning in him, because he represents Jesus. I have read the books over and over and they have a great message that people need to hear. Positive - …When my friends and I saw the movie they were interested about my beliefs. The movie is absolutely wonderful.… |
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The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian