What Might Have Been....and What May Yet Be.

Rating: 7/10 (10 December 2005)

I went into this afternoon's matinée with mild expectations. After having recently finished the seven book CS Lewis series, I wondered-often aloud-whether or not it would be possible to truly capture the magic of Narnia on the big screen. Overall, I believe this film is a stunning attempt at relaying all of the wonder of Lewis' magical world, but it falls short of satisfying those of us who were completely entranced by the literary version of the story.
Down to the very last creature, every bit of acting was superb, particularly Lucy and the White Witch. Peter was not quite as regal as I had expected, but then again, what young boy who has been thrown into a mythical world by walking into a wardrobe really is regal? I was disappointed that he was never referred to as the High King, elevating his status above that of Edmund-although Edmund does acquiesce to his leadership after Aslan's "death." I had hoped to be captured by real visual majesty ala the LOTR Trilogy. I was disappointed. But there was enough magic present in this opening volley that I will return on opening day for any sequels-and I have a sense that whatever nitpicking concerns I have for this first film will be long forgotten as the series moves forward. I continue to anticipate great things.