Lately, as I've been passing the display tables at Barnes & Noble, I've noticed an abundance of books that claim to help the reader find God in Narnia. (Hint: It's the lion.) While I don't understand how a book like this can be more than one page long, these books do support what Lewis himself understood to be the main question of the Christian critic: how does (or does not) this piece of art "embody, imitate, or reflect that which is eternal"?

Certainly, that is the most important question. Many fans of the books have been wondering for the past few years whether the movies would remain faithful to the books. First however, allow me to address the more technical aspects of this movie. James McAvoy is superbly suspicious of Mr. Tumnus. His performance is slightly eerie, and almost flirtatious in a way. Tilda Swinton is also impeccable, and most remarkable when she first adresses Edmund in the Lantern Waste. She comes across and beautiful and kind, and as I watched it I could see myself easily climbing up into the sledge with her and devouring the Turkish Delight.

Most of the liberties taken in the story only add to the movie. For instance, Mr. Tumnus is not immediately turned to stone in the White Witch's castle - he is in the next cell from Edmund which makes for an interesting and emotional meeting. The scene where they are chased across a frozen river that is quickly turning into several icebergs adds necessary tension. Purists will never be satisfied I know, but all is well. Worry not.

Though I cannot comment on each little detail, here is a paragraph of general statements: The Pevensie children are good, especially Georgie Henley and Skandar Keynes. The art direction is decent, though it lacks the depth of the Lord of the Rings' art direction. The soundtrack is mostly fine except for a really out of place new-agey sounding song that is played at inappropriate times. I like that sort of music as much as the next person, but it was out of place and will date the movie.

The question is, does the movie reflect the eternal? Most of us on this site are Christians, so I feel this is a valid comment. I read a review by another Christian who said that Aslan does not represent Christ well in this film, citing the way Aslan pounces on the White Witch in the battle. Is my God mighty in battle, does he destroy evil? I should hope so. Sadly, I felt that Aslan is not emphasized as much as I would like. Yes, the characters talk about him and whatnot, but something is lost in translation to screen - something I really cannot place my finger on. Perhaps it is a somewhat wistful quality that seems to take the place of the message of hope that I have so long associated with this book. Another complaint I have heard is that the theme of forgiveness is not as apparent, as Edmund never says that he is sorry to his brother and sisters. This is true, but insignificant - it is apparent that Edmund is remorseful and all is forgiven.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe still does reflect the eternal. How could it not? It is there, for all to see - Christ's death and ressurection. The story you love is intact, the eternal themes that tug at your heart and the magic that makes you want to step into any wardrobe you come across - everything is there. The very last scene, even, made my heart leap - as the Pevensies come tumbling out of the wardrobe and the professor steps in, Peter tells him he would never believe what they had been doing. The professor grins and says "Try me."

Also, they had dryads and mermaids, both which I love.
(quotes taken from Reading the Classics with C.S. Lewis)