Z/Web

I was really wanting this to be good as the series is one of my favorites. I expected it to be technically sound (good special effects, etc.) but I was nervous about the way the story might be changed or the characters adapted. Well, I’m pleased to report my fears were for naught. The adaptation is extremely faithful. In fact, it’s even better than the book in places. For instance, the film opens with WWII planes bombing London and we see the children having to hide in the bomb shelter. That’s not in the book, but it sets the tone better, as the children are sent to the country to be safe, and thus are parentless — perfect for an escape into a fantasy land like Narnia. The book doesn’t emphasize or set that up as well as the movie. I also loved the gradual pace of the film. Yes, it’s a long movie, but the setup is important, both for well-developed characters, but also for making the fantasy elements more exciting in contrast. In terms of the acting, story, and visuals, the film is excellent. The digital creatures are very well done, especially Aslan the lion. A few minor digital characters — like the fox — are not as well done, but the film still works. Overall, I was highly impressed. There is no moralizing or sermonizing, and yet C.S. Lewis’ original allegory is not thwarted in any way. It’s just a crisp, clean, well-done adaptation of the book. I can’t wait for all the others novels in the series to be done.