Kudos and congrats on a new Children's Classic!

Rating: 10/10 (5 January 2006)

My first introduction to the Narnia, (prior to reading and falling in love with the book) was through the 1979 cartoon. I had seen bits and pieces of the 1988 BBC production, and while it captured my attention I can't say I was ever really that crazy about it. I found it extremely slow paced. While a discussion has been on-going about the look of the Pevensie children in this current film version, it should be pointed out that the young girl playing Lucy in that version is Eleanor Roosevelt in training, sporting an over-bite that enters each frame before she does. Not exactly a pretty picture.
For years I had hoped someone would bring this tale to life on the big screen. It was rumored that the movie version would be updated and set in the city of Los Angeles. Why not?! Good idea! Let's take a story that children of all ages have loved for over 40 years and "improve it, by modernizing it and giving it that Hollywood touch!". Wonderful. While we're at it, let's remake "The Wizard of Oz" and cast Brittney Spears as Dorothy and Jim Carey as the wizard.
Producer Perry Moore and director Andrew Adamson should be praised and applauded for their beautiful, endearing , magical and most importantly, FAITHFUL film adaptation of a children's classic. Again, I highly disagree with the rantings of those attacking the children and their "looks", and let's not forget people they are just kids, ,so lay off, OK ? It's bad enough having bullies on the playground at a young and tender age, but to have the American public attack them on a message board, Come on! Personally, I think William Mosely is adorable as Peter Pevensie. Georgie Henely is the perfect choice for the wide and innocent Lucy. She is thoroughly believable as the little girl who stumbles upon the magical world of Narnia. Every giggle, every tear drop is right on the money and honest. I never once got the impression that this kid was forcing her performance. She could certainly be a model to most other child actors in Hollywood, and more then half of the adult's as well.
Tilda Swinton turns in a riveting, bravura performance as the White Witch. Aside from being stunning , she is deliciously wicked. Liam Neeson is the perfect choice for the voice of "Aslan", rightful ruler of the magical world. James McAvoy is a delight as Mr. Tumnus. Jim Broadbent deserves a nod in his small but pivotal and endearing role of Professor Kirke. Mr. and Mrs. Beaver are a hoot!
I also found the movie visually stunning. In particular the moments at the castle of the White Witch, the children's journey with Mr. and Mrs. Beaver to the meet Aslan and of course the great palace of Cair Parevel. If you see anything this Holiday season , make it "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe". You will not be disappointed.
Oh, yes...I do have one complaint. There is a marvelous moment between Lucy and the Professor at the end of the film, edited as it is, it shows up after some credits are rolling and so often times people miss out as they are leaving the theater . I have seen the film several times now. I hope when they release the DVD version, they will tag the moment between Lucy and the Professor on BEFORE they roll the credits.