The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

From director Andrew Adamson (Shrek, Shrek 2) comes one of the most eagerly anticipated films of 2005. From the Chronicles of Narnia, a series of books by C. S. Lewis, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is probably the best known and most loved. Siblings Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are evacuees in World War II, sent from London to live with an eccentric professor. Life is pretty dull until Lucy discovers a wardrobe that leads into the magical world of Narnia, where there are strange creatures, dwarves and giants, animals that can talk and good is in a constant battle with evil. The evil comes in the form of the White Witch Jadis, who keeps Narnia in a permanent winter and can turn anyone into stone. With new friends, including the lion Aslan, the four children are caught up in a terrifying and exciting adventure as they attempt to overcome evil.

Magical really is the word for this story and film. Dealing with themes of family and sibling rivalry and betrayal and forgiveness, it is all at once moving, funny and dark. The mostly unknown cast are fantastic and the seamless effects (which absolutely have to be seen on the big screen) continue to push the limits of film. As the book was quite a slim read there has been some padding out, paving the way for some fantastic action sequences, particular highlights being the film opening with the Luftwaffe bombing London, an incredibly tense chase of the children by the Witch’s wolves across a thawing river and the climactic battle. No doubt the other six books of the Chronicles will follow this onto the big screen, and deservedly so. An incredible film, this will help fill the chasm left by Lord of the Rings and provide perfect Christmas TV fodder for many years to come.

Jean Rostron