Buena Vista Pictures | Release Date: December 9, 2005
6.0
USER SCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 797 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
454
Mixed:
126
Negative:
217
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4
MattyM.Dec 10, 2005
The film is a blunder; a mere excuse to throw in creatures fighting against each other for some poor action, followed by irritant performances by the Pevensie kids, and tedious moments that drag on and on. The entire movie is a The film is a blunder; a mere excuse to throw in creatures fighting against each other for some poor action, followed by irritant performances by the Pevensie kids, and tedious moments that drag on and on. The entire movie is a dejá-vu, but it still features Tilda Swinton and Liam Neeson, which is not a bad thing. Expand
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2
vladimirp.Dec 14, 2005
Ridiculous, boring, predictable, not for kids to much violence, not for adults not enough violence, bad fx, bad music, annoying actors especialy the little girl, i hate animals, stupid plot, worse ending, long. what can i say.
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10
JoshM.Dec 14, 2005
I think the movie showed a great deal of adventure for kids who needed it to get by why they were away from their parents.
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4
lynnl.Dec 23, 2005
There's no solid or substantial central theme. The story was not suitable for a movie in the first place. The children's acting ranged from average to poor. Movie became kind of dry halfway while I was watching. Unless you've There's no solid or substantial central theme. The story was not suitable for a movie in the first place. The children's acting ranged from average to poor. Movie became kind of dry halfway while I was watching. Unless you've watched genuinely great movies before, you'd probably think this movie is good. In short, an overly glamorous effort to dramatise an otherwise classic story. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SteveS.Dec 27, 2005
This Film is the best Film I have seen all year!
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8
philipt.Dec 28, 2005
Good, but Kong is better!
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10
JorgeP.Dec 31, 2005
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe was great it was one of the best movies I have ever seen. I wish the very best for the upcoming film Prince Caspian on Christmas 2007.
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10
MeganDec 30, 2005
It was brill.
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9
CaseyG.Dec 30, 2005
Very,very good acting, costumes, and plot. This went almost strait from the book and really sucks you into the plot.
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10
DanielN.Dec 3, 2005
Amazing!
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10
KateMDec 30, 2005
It's amazing, I've seen it three times! I'm a huge fan of the books and practicaly grew up on the BBC version of the movie, but this was much better than even I imagined it. Long live Aslan!
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10
michaelf.Dec 6, 2005
Wonderful adaptation of a classic childrens book. The movie is not an allegory, but an interesting supposal. Exciting movie for the intelligent family.
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10
ToreS.Dec 8, 2005
I had been waiting for it ever since it was announced, so of course I couldn't pass up the chance to see a press preview this morning. Naturally it did not coincide 100% with my own vision of Narnia visually, but emotionally it rang I had been waiting for it ever since it was announced, so of course I couldn't pass up the chance to see a press preview this morning. Naturally it did not coincide 100% with my own vision of Narnia visually, but emotionally it rang absolutely true, choking me up several times and really touching me. I walked out of the theatre with a warm, contented feeling - just like I feel every time I read C.S. Lewis' book! The stand-out performance was definitely Tilda Swinton's as the White Witch, but I liked all actors/voices, from cute little Lucy (newcomer Georgie Henley) to majestic Aslan (Liam Neeson). I thought the children did a great job, considering their relative inexperience and the amount of blue screen work involved. Expand
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10
JohnS.Dec 9, 2005
Excellent.
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10
JamesK.Dec 9, 2005
Maybe it's because you were looking for the symbolism. And if you've been to a Creed concert, It's already apparent your judgement is impared.
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7
RodrigoB.Jan 11, 2006
Good movie. Since I read all Narnia books, I was quite excited when I saw the movie. Unfortunately, I can´t give it a 10. I felt everything happened too fast, as if the director was forced to put every character and each one of their Good movie. Since I read all Narnia books, I was quite excited when I saw the movie. Unfortunately, I can´t give it a 10. I felt everything happened too fast, as if the director was forced to put every character and each one of their actions into 2 hours of film. The book has another taste... much better taste. Expand
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7
SammyZeeJan 1, 2006
Good plot but some of it i think was kinda um... cheesy and about that Aslan guy coming back to life well that was an explicit Jesus reference and why wasn't there Chanukah Harry AND Santa Claus. They would be good friends.
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8
RobertJan 1, 2006
An entertaining favorite. Manages to catch the magic without current Hollywood hype. Warning: not for younger children. Adults will love it too.
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9
MarkB.Jan 12, 2006
Although the Christian overtones and symbolism of C. S. Lewis's beloved children's fantasy series are unmistakable, it's a tribute to his remarkable skills as an author that my fourth grade teacher read us the entire book in Although the Christian overtones and symbolism of C. S. Lewis's beloved children's fantasy series are unmistakable, it's a tribute to his remarkable skills as an author that my fourth grade teacher read us the entire book in class--and only later on did I learn that she was an agnostic. For that matter, Flick Filosopher MaryAnn Johansen, who frequently declares herself an atheist (and ranked The Passion of the Christ the worst film of 2004!) loved this movie version anyway. As well she should--it's both epic and intimate in scope, terrifically moving, funny and exciting...and in the year of Harry Potter 4 and Star Wars 6, or 3, or whatever, I thought this was second only to King Kong as the best fantasy film of the year. My worries about Shrek and Shrek 2 director Andrew Adamson taking the helm proved to be unfounded; I was afraid he'd muck the source material up with cheap pop-culture and in-joke references, but he's stayed remarkably faithful to the time, place and tone of Lewis's material...not even yielding to the temptation to modify some of the more obscure Britishisms. (When's the last time YOU picked up some 'Turkish delight' at your local See's candy store?) Children Peter, Edmund, Susan and Lucy (the latter played by Georgie Henley, who possesses both the requisite acting chops AND adorableness in equal and abundant quantities), sent to the country by their mother during the worst of World War II, discover a magical wardrobe that transports them to the Land of Narnia, a kingdom of talking animals led by the heroic, Christ-like lion Aslan, who's doing battle against the White Witch (Tilda Swinton, one of the rare actors who has played both an angelic figure--in Constantine--and a demonic one in the same calendar year). The Crucifixion, the Resurrection and the Book of Revelation are all represented throughout the battle, and so is Judas' betrayal, which intriguingly plays out with somewhat different results here than in the Gospels. Liam Neeson voices Aslan with great authority and warmth (and I'm grateful that his recent portrayal of the controversial Dr. Alfred Kinsey didn't automatically remove him from the short list for this role), while Swinton is remarkably sly, subtle and perhaps in keeping with her role as a master temptress, sexier than I've ever seen her onscreen. And I loved what has to be the strongest portrayal of a loving, affectionate married couple onscreen in years--even if they DO happen to be a pair of beavers! Faithful churchgoers and nonbelievers alike will be thrilled at the elaborate, intense (but not at all gory) action sequences, but I especially warmed up to The Chronicles of Narnia's superbly confident, deliberate pacing: without ever, ever dragging, it moves along at its own speed, constantly sparking viewers of all ages to ask, "And then what? And then what? What happens next?" So many recent fantasy, science fiction, action or adventure films have bludgeoned us with Michael Bay-style cacaphonies of noisome CGI images that it's a real pleasure--no, a JOY--to watch a film like The Chronicles of Narnia as it restores a seemingly lost art: that of simply telling us a terrific story. Expand
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9
JaredO.Jan 13, 2006
This is a great movie, however, the reason this doesnt get a 10 is because it does lag in some parts. The special effects are Breathtakingly amazing, i mean, WOW. The movie is Very true to the book, with a little pdding added in. This movie This is a great movie, however, the reason this doesnt get a 10 is because it does lag in some parts. The special effects are Breathtakingly amazing, i mean, WOW. The movie is Very true to the book, with a little pdding added in. This movie is Definetly worth seeing. Expand
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10
ErinH.Jan 13, 2006
The movie was quite welldone and I loved it! The best part about it was that it really portayed how the Witch represented Satan and how Aslan represented Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins just like Aslan gave hislife and died The movie was quite welldone and I loved it! The best part about it was that it really portayed how the Witch represented Satan and how Aslan represented Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins just like Aslan gave hislife and died freely for Edmunds sin. Expand
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10
RebeccaS.S.Jan 14, 2006
Actually to be honest this movie is a 12. Wonderful all around, smart, frightening and Joyous.
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10
StephRJan 14, 2006
Best Movie Ever!
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6
TheDigglerJan 2, 2006
Such a shame this film turned out to be so flat and boring. The kids fit the parts well and the impression of Narnia was nicely done, Mr Tumnus in particular was well done and very near to the book. I have to appreciate the effort made here Such a shame this film turned out to be so flat and boring. The kids fit the parts well and the impression of Narnia was nicely done, Mr Tumnus in particular was well done and very near to the book. I have to appreciate the effort made here to make this film as close to the book as possible, especially considering the farce that was the Return of the King two years ago. There just wasn't enough of the emoitional impact felt from reading these books translated on to the big screen. This can be best seen in Aslan. Not impressive, grand, or wonderous in the least, just a big animated lion. As much as I like Liam Neeson I think Brian Cox would have done a far better job. Hopefully the next film(s) in the series will be more emotional. Expand
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10
GandaS.Jan 25, 2006
Very good! The Film was so great and really inspiring. It has lots of moral lessons..... I loved it especially Peter who looked good and handsome... That was one of the greatest film I've ever had.
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7
NelC.Jan 6, 2006
I just read Jonathan H's review, and thought, wow, what a biased and jaded review. Listen, there is no mention of Jesus in the entire movie, or even God. If you don't tell your children the story of Jesus, then they won't even I just read Jonathan H's review, and thought, wow, what a biased and jaded review. Listen, there is no mention of Jesus in the entire movie, or even God. If you don't tell your children the story of Jesus, then they won't even think that the story has religious overtones. How can a story that has no mention of God in it be religious unless someone tells you it is? If you're an athiest, then you think Christianity is a myth, which is what this movie is--a myth. If you're a Christian, then you can relate what you believe in to the movie. That said, this movie is entertaining, and not a lot more. It is just fun to watch. If you're looking to watch a emotionally complicated movie, then this is not it. This movie is for fans of fantasy. This movie does not push Christian beliefs on you unless you want it too. If you don't read into the movie too much, then I think the movie is enjoyable. Expand
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10
DavidJan 9, 2006
I was captivated by the magic, the wonder, AND the lessons about honor, courage, and defending these principles. And I'm 44 years old. Excellent movie, for adults AND children (over age 6 or 7).
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6
KyleL.Feb 10, 2006
Was too childish for me, but hey, wasnt it targeted for children? It entertained me and that is waht a movie is for. I wasnt a fan of the actors or characters though.
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9
FrankO.Feb 4, 2006
An excellent flim about CS Lewis' classic tale of the battle between good and evil. Really enjoyed this movie, good young cast who played good but flawed characters. Highly recommended.
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9
ChanceL.Feb 4, 2006
Great movie! The actors did a great job, and the special effcts were amazing. The only disappointment really was that they changed the older children into jerks, so they too could learn a valuable lesson about "family." Curse Disney!
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10
ElodieT.Apr 11, 2006
Loved the movie, although I'd never read the books. Great entertainment, and all-ages!
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8
AndreR.Apr 11, 2006
Although this movie is certainly not up to par with other great epic films, it still delivers a very rich story with great characters and plenty of eye candy for both kids and the young at heart.
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8
CharlieN.May 17, 2006
Very entertaining...one of the best family films of the 2005!
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9
DavidG.May 19, 2006
Very nice movie for both children and adults. The animation is just great and make the battle very realistic (actually, way above my expectations). Great movie!
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7
PamL.May 20, 2006
I enjoyed this movie. No -- it wasn't as grand or captivating as Lord of the Rings, but nor was it intended to be. I thought the casting was quite good, including the children, and I loved the ending with Lucy and the professor at the I enjoyed this movie. No -- it wasn't as grand or captivating as Lord of the Rings, but nor was it intended to be. I thought the casting was quite good, including the children, and I loved the ending with Lucy and the professor at the end -- a deviation from the book that played well on the screen. Expand
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6
MattH.Sep 2, 2006
[***SPOILERS***] The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a watchable movie, if not exactly the cat's meow (or is it the lion's roar?). This first feature film based on C.S. Lewis's seven part fantasy [***SPOILERS***] The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a watchable movie, if not exactly the cat's meow (or is it the lion's roar?). This first feature film based on C.S. Lewis's seven part fantasy series, follows a little more in the footsteps of the Harry Potter films than The Lord of the Rings movies, given that Lord of the Rings was great all the way through while Harry Potter took three to four movies before it became a genuine crowd pleaser. But back to Narnia. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe opens with a scene of the German blitz of London in World War II, which forces parents all over the city to send their children away by train, including the parents, or rather just the mother of our four child heroes, the Pevensie siblings-- Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter. The fact that parents really did this during the war makes the film's title sequence all the more sad and it's accompanied by a rather melancholy song that I couldn't really make out the lyrics to, but was still very lovely to hear because it perfectly captures the feelings that these kids must have as they have to leave their parents with the possibility that they may never see them again. The performances are, on the whole, not entirely noteworthy, save for Tilda Swinton as the White Which, Jadis. Swinton plays her part superbly acting with an icy menace all throughout the movie. You really root for the good guys to get her because she has such a cold, cruel presence. Liam Neeson lends his voice to the lion, Aslan with a Godlike persona, which works because of the film's Christian spirit, personified by Aslan being Martyred by the Witch then rising from the dead to fulfill his purpose (which should please churchgoers). Aslan emanates a sense of someone who is gently confident and assured but can become formidable and dangerous at any time, especially when confronted by an enemy. The rest of the cast (including the talking animals) is alright, but they don't stand up to Swinton and Neeson, who sparkle in their roles. Director Andrew Adamson (Shrek, Shrek 2) does a commendable job of capturing the book's Cristian spirit, espescially in the scene where Aslan goes up to Jadis to sacrifice himself in Edmund's place, where he's humiliated, shaved and finally stabbed by the witch, only to rise again in the morning (I admit though, I was a bit concerned about Santa Claus giving Lucy a dagger, given that she doesn't really use it and she doesn't even look old enough to be in grade school yet). However, he's far less successful with the film's special effects. All of the creatures in the movie, from the beavers, to the wolves, to Aslan, to a great many of the creatures in Aslan's army and the witch's army, and even a few of the digitalized environments look obviously computer-generated. Seeing as director Adamson was a veteran of the Shrek movies, which are entirely computer-animated, that could be one of the reasons as to why this is, but I think much of it has to do with many of the talking creatures in this movie being animals that we see in the real world. You might note that in animated movies, even computer-animated ones, animals like birds, fish, lions, horses, donkeys-basically any animal that exists in the real world, tend to have their faces and heads reshaped quite a bit so they can talk and show human expressions. Their faces become completely mobile, their jaws and mouths move properly to simulate human language, they have lips that move appropriately with their speech, they have vocal cords shown as lumps inside the throat that move when they speak, and their tongues move in different ways depending on what they're saying. This works in animated movies because the animals are cartoons, so you can make them look and move however you want, and it works even when you're animating an entirely made up creature, like a dragon, and integrating it into a live action movie because, likewise, you can make it look and move any way you want, though you might still want to go for the most realistic look possible because you're putting something that's not there in a real environment. However, animals that we know from the real world clearly just weren't made to talk like people, and seeing as the filmmakers realized that they needed to fully computer animate the animals to make their speech blend fluidly with the rest of their bodies, the end results just look fake. This, ultimately, makes me wonder as to why the Academy nominated this movie for a best visual effects Oscar. Both Star Wars: Episode III- Revenge of the Sith and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire had far, far better special effects than this movie and I would have gladly traded this movie for one of those two for visual effects. The PG rating is also something to take note of as there are several violent and frightening moments in the movie that frequently feel as if they were watered down just to maintain appeal with the kids. The big battle at the end of the film for instance doesn't feel as visceral as a real battle might have been as the filmmakers include plenty of deaths, but no gore. Hmmm..... the Mouse House is toning down a movie filled with battles and fairly high violence just to make it appropriate for kids? Bad move. Doing so robs the movie of one crucial element to make it work- the sense that something vital is at stake. When the filmmakers or their studios decide to tone down the violence to a "comfortable" level, we get the sense that everything will be alright, that there's no real danger to the characters, so we watch in a bit of a detatched way, entertained by the action, if not involved in it because we don't quite connect with the situation. I wonder, though, if the series will eventually tilt over into a PG-13 rating with the possibility of an R rating looming over the final film much like the Harry Potter series. We'll have to see the remaining six Narnia movies to find out, and, like Harry Potter, we'll just have to see if The Chronicles of Narnia, in it's future, can cast a real spell over us. Expand
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8
KateKOct 5, 2008
This movie is pretty good! I like the plot and the characters but I must admit this isn't my fave movie.
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9
DavidKJun 27, 2008
Great movie that stayed true to the great the author's writings. My children watch it over & over (although we jump past the stone table scene). Excited to see Prince Caspian!
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8
DarrelO Aug 4, 2008
I bought the movie for my kids, and enjoyed it quite a bit. Yeah, there are some things in the graphics that could be better, but I think it has a good message and it's very watchable.
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10
WoarkieASep 27, 2008
As in Lewis' classic, little time is wasted getting our youthful characters into the incredible fantastic adventure. Exquisite production design and an impassioned creative vision by all those involved.
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6
ChristosMMar 18, 2009
If someone can ignore the dangerous political messages that linger under Lewis's writting,will enjoy Tilda Swinton's excellently acted Witch! What a great actress she is!And the visuals off course are absolutely satisfying!
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2
johnc.Dec 11, 2005
Disneyfide right down to the cheesy new-age soundtrack. I implore the estate of C.S. Lewis to choose a different studio for the sequels.
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5
AliCDec 11, 2005
Ok, this may look like a British adaptation of a British novel, but Hollywood's grubby fingers are all over this irritating and at times unbearably schmalzy movie. Yes the special effects are good (particularly talking animals), but the Ok, this may look like a British adaptation of a British novel, but Hollywood's grubby fingers are all over this irritating and at times unbearably schmalzy movie. Yes the special effects are good (particularly talking animals), but the acting is bad and 6th form play cheesy. Like the earlier Harry Potter films, this is let down by child actors (perhaps surprisingly, particularly the older two), which begs the question: how is it possible for a CGI beaver to be more convincing and sympathetic than a real human being? And why didn't they just CGI the human parts too? Take your kids, but take a good book too (maybe something by CS Lewis). Expand
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3
JelouiseR.Dec 11, 2005
C.S. Lewis is sometimes cited as "Tolkien for Slow Children". Whether that's fair or not, this movie can certanly be compared to the Lord of the Rings films in the same way. It's long, bland, shallow, and gratingly preachy, with so C.S. Lewis is sometimes cited as "Tolkien for Slow Children". Whether that's fair or not, this movie can certanly be compared to the Lord of the Rings films in the same way. It's long, bland, shallow, and gratingly preachy, with so many "homages" to the Tolkein films cinematography that much of the audience was snickering at the obvious cribbing. Expand
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10
LyndaS>Dec 11, 2005
Never before as an adult have I been so captivated,transfixed & so ushered into a world of pure magic. One of the richest films I have ever seen. An absolute masterpiece of emotion, color, texture, adventure & wild eyed wonder!
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5
johnw.Dec 11, 2005
I so much wanted this to be good. Long time fantasy reader. But this was not much better than the plodding British series, just spent A LOT more money on it. Very empty. Boring characters. Took the book too literal instead of becoming more I so much wanted this to be good. Long time fantasy reader. But this was not much better than the plodding British series, just spent A LOT more money on it. Very empty. Boring characters. Took the book too literal instead of becoming more cinematic in it's telling. Spent all this money on CG but the sets felt like stages. I thought the death and resurrection of Aslan was mishandled. Very disappointed. Has attempts at serious family dynamics, but forces them into the stiff plot. My nine year old liked it. I normally don't trash movies because they are so hard to make, but I was seriously underwhelmed by this production. Frankly, I'm just angry at all the wasted money and talent. Expand
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10
JeromeH.Dec 10, 2005
Phenomenal movie! Great christian symbollism (more than our family realized after reading the book). Wonderful acting, great directing and cinematography. Not too violent, as some reviewers have suggested. Go out with your family and see Phenomenal movie! Great christian symbollism (more than our family realized after reading the book). Wonderful acting, great directing and cinematography. Not too violent, as some reviewers have suggested. Go out with your family and see this wonderful movie! Expand
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9
NigelP.Dec 11, 2005
Having read the book, seen an adaption on television and having also seen a play; it was with eager anticipation to be able to see the film. I was in no way disappointed. Brilliant adaptation, totally true to the book with fantastic effects. Having read the book, seen an adaption on television and having also seen a play; it was with eager anticipation to be able to see the film. I was in no way disappointed. Brilliant adaptation, totally true to the book with fantastic effects. Tilda Swinton gives a superb performance as the witch and stands out as lead character, although being made up to seven feet tall, I suppose she would ! ! Expand
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9
chucky.Dec 10, 2005
This film is one wild ride!
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3
EricSDec 11, 2005
I honestly expected quite a bit coming into "The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe", having enjoyed the book when I was seven or eight. Unfortunately, I was unpleasently surprised to find that other than the visual aspects of the film, what I I honestly expected quite a bit coming into "The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe", having enjoyed the book when I was seven or eight. Unfortunately, I was unpleasently surprised to find that other than the visual aspects of the film, what I had was... a "classic" that could have been written by a bunch of 6 year olds at Sunday school? The story was hopelessly sappy and predictable. If we need to sit through a 2 hour+ bible reenactment, at least try and be a little more subtle. Some of the dialogue sounded like it was written by an evangelical Christian. No wonder the Catholic Church saw the story as a viable "alternative" to Harry Potter, a far superior novel and movie. The children were well cast and reasonably talented, but unfourtunately they didn't have much to do other than cry and gaze in awe at the goofy talking animals and un-inspired settings. The White Witch was decently portrayed, but something felt a little off. Perhaps it was the feeling that I'd seen such a villain a hundred times before (in books and movies BEFORE Narnia.) The ending was by far the worst part of the film. Not only was it sappy and overwrought, but it felt way to rushed (although I hardly wanted to sit through any more). Maybe this was how it was in the book (I don't remembe the details), but it was nevertheless a poor way to wrap things up. The fact that every character ended up alive and well proves that "The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe" is purely a children's fairy tale and not worthy of all the praise heaped upon it. What reason was there to bring all the characters back if not to appease the story's target audience of 4 year olds? If you are in the mood for a shallow, undaring and mindless fairy tale complete with a healthy dose of preaching, see this movie. If not, finding something better shoudln't be too difficult. Expand
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3
TitusDec 10, 2005
Doesn't work well as allegory, the story itself is leaden, the acting and direction weak . . . the whole thing just bores. There is magic and greatness in the movie for about 10 mintues, but mostly there is just a weak movie Doesn't work well as allegory, the story itself is leaden, the acting and direction weak . . . the whole thing just bores. There is magic and greatness in the movie for about 10 mintues, but mostly there is just a weak movie masquerading as a blockbuster. Expand
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10
AdamDDec 10, 2005
An amazing movie.
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10
TylerWDec 11, 2005
An amazing film, it followed the book better than any novel based film I have ever seen. Staying true to the Christian themes that meant so much to Lewis and the various readers of this series, the movie is a thrill and well worth the time An amazing film, it followed the book better than any novel based film I have ever seen. Staying true to the Christian themes that meant so much to Lewis and the various readers of this series, the movie is a thrill and well worth the time whether you're a kid or adult. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
[Anonymous]Dec 10, 2005
I loved this film, being a very big fan of C.S.Lewis and from reading the book several times didn't blink an eye the entire time watching the movie (even if it was midnight).
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10
EricS.Dec 12, 2005
This probably was the best movie of the year for me! Very Well Done! Highly recomended.
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4
oscare.Dec 12, 2005
Very predictable and slow.poor quality images,very poor digital landscapes,boring and long,what a waste of time!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
S.T.KellyDec 12, 2005
I felt that with better editing and cinematography the film could have been much punchier. As it was I found it mushy and lackluster. Except for Aslan and Lucy. And the battle.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JadaGDec 10, 2005
Absolutely wonderful. Writing, Filming. Editing, Casting, Special Effects.
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10
hugom.Dec 12, 2005
Lo mejor del año.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
RussellDec 12, 2005
The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe isn't one of my favorite stories, and the film is pretty much the same as the book. The film provides more context than the book, which is nice. While this TLWW seems like it is supposed to be a The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe isn't one of my favorite stories, and the film is pretty much the same as the book. The film provides more context than the book, which is nice. While this TLWW seems like it is supposed to be a moving story, it wasn't. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ClintM.Dec 12, 2005
In my opinion, not as good as the Harry Potter movies by any means, but definitely enjoyable.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
DavidODec 13, 2005
After enduring long lines filled with eager children and and annoyed adults, I finally made it into the theater for the opening credits of this movie. Here's my recap of the movie: Zzzzzz . A total waste of time and money. If this movie After enduring long lines filled with eager children and and annoyed adults, I finally made it into the theater for the opening credits of this movie. Here's my recap of the movie: Zzzzzz . A total waste of time and money. If this movie had come out five years ago, I might have actually enjoyed this movie. But with films like the Harry Potter series and best of all the Lord of the Rings trilogy, one can't help but compare The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to these outstanding films. And when you do, The lion, the witch and the wardrobe only comes up mediocre. This films steels so much from previous films, it's not like watching a new movie. As a fan of the BOOK series, I can't help but be disgusted by the lost potential. Do yourself a favor and wait for King Kong to come out! Expand
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5
TimMDec 14, 2005
This movie kinda blew.... king kong was waaaaaay better. Narnia was boring and the f/x were kinda crappy, too. Can I use the word "contrived" for a fantasy picture.... i just did.
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10
lyrab.Dec 15, 2005
Best movie ever!! very well done.
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9
DebbieG.Dec 15, 2005
Incredibly imaginative, and true to the novel. The animal.mythological character armies were amazing.
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10
DarrylD.Dec 16, 2005
In Narnia, you break up. The bits that were you go speeding toward the light with everyone to see. True, it's only oblivion, and you had it before. But in Narnia, it merges with a unique endeavor to bring to bloom the million petalled In Narnia, you break up. The bits that were you go speeding toward the light with everyone to see. True, it's only oblivion, and you had it before. But in Narnia, it merges with a unique endeavor to bring to bloom the million petalled flower of being reborn. Timeless, Eternal, and True. Expand
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9
SpongeeeK.Dec 16, 2005
Fantastic! Has graphics and a soul too.
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0
SDec 16, 2005
J.ust wrote long review of how horrible this movie is, lost it, not bothering again. boring, with v.hateable child actors.
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9
StephaneF.Dec 16, 2005
At heart, this is a young-person's film. But so were C.S. Lewis's books, and the filmmakers captured their spirit brilliantly.
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3
LaraP.Dec 16, 2005
Just another film that does no justice to it's literature version. Although some scenes were nice to look at, purely for visual pleasure, the children lacked emotion, the witch fell flat, and the story was devoid of adventure. Even for Just another film that does no justice to it's literature version. Although some scenes were nice to look at, purely for visual pleasure, the children lacked emotion, the witch fell flat, and the story was devoid of adventure. Even for children it lacks the spirit that kids need these days. Expand
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10
AlissaL.Dec 17, 2005
Best movie I've seen in a long time. It's renewed my faith in movies, the crap they've been putting out thus far is laughable in its absurdity. Thanks for the long drink of cool water that is The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.!!!!
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9
ranic.Dec 18, 2005
I had really bad seats (front row, far right) and I still thought this movie was one of the best fantasy movies to date. I read the books as a kid and it was awesome to see the story visually depicted. The film was vibrant and exciting and I had really bad seats (front row, far right) and I still thought this movie was one of the best fantasy movies to date. I read the books as a kid and it was awesome to see the story visually depicted. The film was vibrant and exciting and the costume design was great. However, I was suprised to see how gruesome and morbid some of the scenes in this Disney movie were - that was the only real turn off for me - because it pretty much a kid's movie. But the best part of the movie is that it does what a movie is supposed to - brings you into a whole other imaginary world that is completely real while you are in the theater. Expand
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9
AslanDec 18, 2005
I love this movie. The cj was perfect in my eyes, and it the best book movie i've ever seen. I've seen Peter Pan, ALL the Harry Potters, The Lord of the Rings, Ella Enchanted, Holes, Jurrasic Park, and TONS more, and this one beats I love this movie. The cj was perfect in my eyes, and it the best book movie i've ever seen. I've seen Peter Pan, ALL the Harry Potters, The Lord of the Rings, Ella Enchanted, Holes, Jurrasic Park, and TONS more, and this one beats all. I've read the book, and I think that while is was not the truest to the book, it does not matter because it still fits. I love animals and this one pulled off talking animals very well. Expand
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10
BrittanyL.Dec 19, 2005
This was a good movies..even tho it was long...i read the bok and didnt remember it so yea...it was good so see it..but it is for younger people.
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8
AlexDec 19, 2005
Well, i wasn't quite Lord of the Rings, but it was still pretty good. it was like a family- oriented LOTR.
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3
TedHDec 19, 2005
Ah, the old Disney game. Find the quickest, safest, easiest route to an adaptation, and profit will follow. However, will good cinema also follow? In the case of Narnia, the simple answer is No. A shame, as the movie has all of the right Ah, the old Disney game. Find the quickest, safest, easiest route to an adaptation, and profit will follow. However, will good cinema also follow? In the case of Narnia, the simple answer is No. A shame, as the movie has all of the right elements, but none of the ambition and nowhere near the talent needed to bring the tale to life. Forgettable. Expand
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10
ChrisCDec 21, 2005
This has to be my favorite movie of all time! I've seen it twice now and both times been absolutely engulfed by its effects, music (which was particularly stunning), storyling, and the fact that CS Lewis is just a genious. If you This has to be my favorite movie of all time! I've seen it twice now and both times been absolutely engulfed by its effects, music (which was particularly stunning), storyling, and the fact that CS Lewis is just a genious. If you enjoyed the movie, also consider giving the books a run! Expand
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3
ScottCDec 21, 2005
Fell asleep during the showing... In the middle of the day. The attraction to this useless tale is beyond me.
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10
someoneyoudon'tknowDec 22, 2005
I thought this movie was really incredible. I can't wait for the DVD. I saw it with some friends and we all loved it. My best friend was cutting off the circulation in my arm half the time. Once we both jumped an inch in the air. The I thought this movie was really incredible. I can't wait for the DVD. I saw it with some friends and we all loved it. My best friend was cutting off the circulation in my arm half the time. Once we both jumped an inch in the air. The costumes are incredible, and so is the setting. The casting was great, too. I can't say anything bad about it. Expand
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3
AndrewBDec 22, 2005
After taking an hour just to get all of the children into Narnia, I must say I was ready to leave the theater already. The film was very poorly done. Weak script, weak acting, weak music, weak effects. The sets all looked cheap, and the only After taking an hour just to get all of the children into Narnia, I must say I was ready to leave the theater already. The film was very poorly done. Weak script, weak acting, weak music, weak effects. The sets all looked cheap, and the only really good scene was the battle scene at the end. I expected a movie that pushed the boundaries on what an "epic" film can be and ended up seeing what an "epic" disaster that the Chronicles of Narnia was. Expand
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1
SwethDec 23, 2005
Another review mentions that "you'll laugh and you'll cry", which was very true when I saw the movie--people couldn't help but laugh at the ridiculous death scene of the dwarf, and I wanted to cry at the end over the hours of Another review mentions that "you'll laugh and you'll cry", which was very true when I saw the movie--people couldn't help but laugh at the ridiculous death scene of the dwarf, and I wanted to cry at the end over the hours of my life that had just been wasted. It was impressive how poorly made this movie was. The acting, which was probably the best part of the movie, was mediocre at best. The "plot" (which was never very complex in the book, and thus should have been fairly simple to adapt into a movie) was reduced to a series of rushed scenes with no real coherence, and it was obvious which scenes (like the crossing of the river or Lucy one-upping Susan during target practice) had been added by the scriptwriters to try to "jazz up" the plot, because those were by far the most leaden and pointless; the scriptwriters also managed to squeeze out every trace of the one thing that really made the book interesting--the internal struggles of the kids. Even the CGI was miserable; I've seen movies from the 70s with less artificial backgrounds. Expand
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10
MeganI.Dec 23, 2005
Simply splendid. The best movie of the year. Finally something else than car chases, shootings, and cleavages.
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9
EdS.Dec 24, 2005
A glimpse into the fantastic world of Narnia. I haven't read the books, but I can't wait for the rumored sequel, "Prince Caspian". This is a great movie with good morals, not just for kids. I can't say enough about the A glimpse into the fantastic world of Narnia. I haven't read the books, but I can't wait for the rumored sequel, "Prince Caspian". This is a great movie with good morals, not just for kids. I can't say enough about the excellent cinematography and effects. The kids acted appropriately for their age, and that's perfect. Compare these performances to the kid from the recent "War of the Worlds" whose acting is way beyond her age. Expand
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9
Rev.RikardDec 24, 2005
In contrast to other films that attempt to adapt a well written book to the big screen, this materpiece of C.S. Lewis has been faithfully respected. Little "artistic license" was taken; consequently the original intent of Lewis has remained In contrast to other films that attempt to adapt a well written book to the big screen, this materpiece of C.S. Lewis has been faithfully respected. Little "artistic license" was taken; consequently the original intent of Lewis has remained intact. Andrew Adamson has not only remained true to Lewis' Christian theology in this delightful metaphor, but has done it in such a way that even non-Christians can enjoy this movie. It is a "morality play" for virture, honor, sacrifice and loyalty are the story line. These are universal values to which everyone from every walk of life, and every theological persuasion can identify and embrace as worthy of "bringing to life" in film. The only criticism I had was the lack of wonder in the characters portrayted by the children. I never quite saw that "twinkle in the eye" or that childlike curiosity one would expect if visiting a magical wonderland like Narnia. Still, during this holiday season this is a great movie to see with an older child, or just as an adult that needs a little wonder in their holiday. Whether one agrees with the theology of C.S. Lewis or not, this film is a delightful diversion from the shopping mall. Expand
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7
RoyMDec 25, 2005
I found the scenes to be entertaining, but "thin." By that I mean that there was not a lot of development to set them up. It fell short of what could have been an epic. The actress playing the White Witch was excellent! Clearly the best I found the scenes to be entertaining, but "thin." By that I mean that there was not a lot of development to set them up. It fell short of what could have been an epic. The actress playing the White Witch was excellent! Clearly the best acting, especially compared to the average effort put in by the kids. Expand
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9
DanC.Dec 27, 2005
As the negative reviews on this site attest, you never can account for taste. I for one thought this was an excellent film. I particularly liked the young actors in all of the roles, and I'm very surprised to see some reviewers focusing As the negative reviews on this site attest, you never can account for taste. I for one thought this was an excellent film. I particularly liked the young actors in all of the roles, and I'm very surprised to see some reviewers focusing on them for poor acting. As an adult who loved the books as a child, this faithful rendering was a true delight, as well as genuinely moving. Highly recommended. Expand
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2
BillJ.Dec 27, 2005
Drudgery, religious gobbledeegook.
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10
AllisonC.Dec 31, 2005
I love this movie so much. It's sad,happy and funny all at the same time. I just feel like seeing it again and again.
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10
JeremyR.Dec 9, 2005
Excellent in almost every way. My only complaint (and this small) is that Mr. Beaver never gets a chance to tell the children that Aslan is "Not safe, but He's good." Otherwise I loved it.
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9
GeoffH.Dec 9, 2005
Excellent cinematography and character development. The slight changes that were made from the book worked well, overall it was a fantastic movie for both kids and adults! Would have like it to be a bit longer, but it is well worth seeing, Excellent cinematography and character development. The slight changes that were made from the book worked well, overall it was a fantastic movie for both kids and adults! Would have like it to be a bit longer, but it is well worth seeing, especially if you're already a fan of the story. Expand
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9
WallyS.Dec 9, 2005
The children will be enchanted, and the adults will love the material, but the chronicles are only beginning, and brace yourself, because this is a sensacional adventure.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ElizabethE.Dec 9, 2005
Amazing! The film proved to stay fairly true to the book, which made all of us Narnia fans quite happy. Not only that, but the movie in general was just simply fantastic! Go see it!
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10
DeirdreJ.Dec 9, 2005
Though not absolutely flawless, it is so extraordinary that I have to give it a 10. It is amazingly true to the spirit of the book, well crafted, well structured, and beautiful to look at. The kids do a very good job, and Tilda Swinton is awesome!
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10
JanoooR.Dec 9, 2005
So much better then the first Harry Potter. And will only get better with the next 6 movies.
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9
TomM.Jan 12, 2006
Very good movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
GonzoJan 14, 2006
Not bad .Not bad. The film doesnt carry much adrenaline as "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" does,but you have to accept the gorgeus scenery and plot to fully enjoy the film.I liked how it used symbols for biblical characters.Lucy Not bad .Not bad. The film doesnt carry much adrenaline as "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" does,but you have to accept the gorgeus scenery and plot to fully enjoy the film.I liked how it used symbols for biblical characters.Lucy Pevensie's role was the best one;I mean,all of them were great its really hard to narrow down one of them!But I just couldnt help something about the gilr who plays Lucy.You cant actually notice her facial expression.There were times I couldnt difference If she was crying,or smiling.But oh well.The action was great and my favorite character must be Peter.In overall,a good film. Expand
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7
GrantN.Jan 16, 2006
An interesting movie that was fairly well-made would have been better with more intense battle sequences and a PG-13 rating.
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4
DavidS.Jan 28, 2006
dull and lifeless. the books were not particularly for mature audiences... the movie is the same
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3
JoshS.Apr 23, 2006
I cannot for the life of me understand why this movie got so many positive reviews. It wasn't a terrible movie; the soundtrack was phenomenal and the voice acting was well done. But the wooden performances, the 90's-level CGI, the I cannot for the life of me understand why this movie got so many positive reviews. It wasn't a terrible movie; the soundtrack was phenomenal and the voice acting was well done. But the wooden performances, the 90's-level CGI, the abysmal pacing...I definitely expected more. Expand
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6
SamJun 25, 2006
The movie was a masterpiece the first time I saw it. Gorgeous, thrilling, thought-provoking, and brilliant. The 2nd time around, however, was almost the opposite, save for some cool effects and scenes.
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