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

Overall Rating

Stunning Scenery
Great Story
Wonderful Voice Over Cast
Top Draw CGI (for the most part)

Young kids might get scared

There are two reasons why you should go and watch The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe: 1, It's fabulous. 2, You get to see the trailer for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest!

Ok, so I'll stifle for my excitement for Pirates for the time being and concentrate on Narnia. This film delivers in spades and is enjoyable 2 hour and 20 minute romp that feels like an hour.

The film stays pretty faithful to the book and there is only major scene that has been added that longtime fans will not recognise. The actual Narnia landscape looks fantastic, a snow encrested magical land that feels real. I'm not a great fan of CGI, but it always going to be essential for this film and the good news is that it is pulled off superbly, possibly with the exception of one scene which looked a touch of the fake side.

The story of Narnia is so strong that it would have taken some pretty dismal acting to ruin it, but luckily all the child actors do their bit, while the White Witch is suitably wicked. The mighty Aslan (voiced by Liam Neeson) has a powerful screen presence and aura which thanks to the superb CGI and Neeson's voice over adds to his brave and noble qualities. All the supporting roles are perfectly cast as well, James McAvoy is perfect for Fawn Tumnus who is creepy yet good underneath and the cockney beaver combo of Ray Winstone and Dawn French makes for a loveable pairing. Some of the other animal voice overs are superb as well, notably the chief of police and a helpful fox (nice cameo from Rupert Everett).

There are some really strong scenes in the film such as the manipulation of Lucy and Edmund by Tumnus and The Witch respectively. Any of the scenes involving Aslan take a sense of poignance and grandeur, whilst the final royal rumble of battle is absolutely brilliant. Considering that this is a kids film, the battle scene is as good as you will see in any major war epic.

In conclusion, this is a beautifully put together film that looks and feels fantastic. Old timers like me will be able to look back and enjoy it, while it is a truly great introduction for younger viewers. I would strongly urge you to get down to the cinema and check this out as a pre-Christmas treat.