Truly charming

Rating: 9/10 (29 December 2005)

To me, this was an 'old-fashioned' story given the modern movie treatment - and what a triumph it turned out to be. Wonderful acting from the children involved, sumptuous cinematography and truly elegant characterisation all add up to a visual treat. Not being overly familiar with the books (read them too long ago!), the story came as something of a surprise but was beautifully handled and almost effortlessly moved along with its own pace and style. Cannot praise the young cast highly enough, but director Andrew Adamson also deserves special credit for helming a film that is captivating for adults without being childishly simplistic - a rare feat for a PG film. The ultimate accolade I can give it is that 'Narnia' creates the magnificent visual impression of much of 'Fellowship of the Ring,' which, to me, is the peak of modern film-making. Is there something in the New Zealand air.....?