Lewis Will be more than Proud

Rating: 9/10 (8 January 2006)

Although there is a particular draw to the Narnia adventures because of the long and extensive fan-base, it would be a lie to say that is the only reason why the film has done as well as it has. Non-readers will enjoy the film just as much as the loyal readers, if not more (simply for the lack of knowledge concerning the plot) because of the intense care that Disney took to stay loyal to Lewis' vision.
We begin in a time of war in England where siblings Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter take off to the country to live with a mysterious professor they have no past relationship with. With a small dose of curiosity from the youngest of the four, and a little faith from the rest, we are thrown into a well-interpreted, wonderfully-performed, adventure with a family of youngsters just trying to keep their family together.
The battle sequences were gripping and action-packed and the tender moments brought tears. The wonderful evil White Witch (Tilda Swinton) makes us want to throw our popcorn at the screen in fury and the wise and mysterious Aslan brought the audience to tears and applause. Once again, Disney has shown they can make more than just kid movies with viewers anywhere from three to late sixties. The particularly charming Mr. Tumnus (James McAvoy) was a breath of fresh air and a beloved character audiences welcomed with open arms.
All in all, wonderfully interpreted and made. Beautiful performances by the four children as well as the White Whitch. Rally points go out to the cinematography team as well as the CG animators. Most touching and authentic, leaving audiences teary-eyed and breathless.