Absolutely wonderful...

Rating: 9/10 (17 December 2005)

I am completely unfamiliar with the literary work upon which "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" is based, so I can only make my judgement on the film alone, and not whether it is a solid adaptation (though many say it is). I went into the film figuring that I would at least enjoy it. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I did.
This is certainly one of the best movies I have seen this year, all around. The story is fantastic and rich, the acting is top notch (especially Tilda Swinton's Witch) and the design and special effects are spectacular to watch. While the effects in some areas could have been improved (the beavers didn't look as spectacular as Aslan or the griffins, for example), the overall achievement in creating the world as it is presented is truly astounding.
Special mention has to go to Harry Gregson Williams for a truly fantastic score. Right away, the score comes out on top and it is never overdone. This is especially noticeable in the battle scene as the score fades away just before the two opposing forces collide. Every subtle nuance is poetic and Williams has certainly outdone himself.
In the end, this is a film I know I will be buying the day it comes out on DVD. It is easily one of the most entertaining films of the year and a perfect family flick.