I saw the midnight opening last Thursday night, and will be headed back for the third time tomorrow afternoon. If this undermines my credibility as a reviewer, so be it. So, here you go...

Favorite Things:

• The Pevensies – Lucy is adorable, and Peter and Edmund feel just right too. But in a bit of an upset, I liked Susan the best. I thought she caught the struggle of childhood & adulthood just right, mixing equal parts playfulness and caution. She will absolutely break my heart if they make all seven films.

• The Witch – bravo to Tilda Swinton, who was delightfully icy, sophisticated, and evil. Bring on the Magician's Nephew! I'd love to see her lay Charn to waste!

• Centaurs – Oreius rules. Enough said.

I wish I would have seen:

• More of Aslan, especially as he breathes life into the statues. IMO, this was one of the most powerful images in the book. Any sweepings from the cutting room floor left?

Summary

A hauntingly beautiful film that captured the wonder and excitment of Narnia. A wonderful gift for the millions who have held this story in their hearts over the years.

To the Andrew Adamson, Douglas Gresham, Walden Media, & Disney - thank you for letting this story speak for itself. Old Jack was a master, and you were wise enough to let him speak for himself.

And to those who think this tale isn't sophisticated enough for today's kids, I say (with apologies to Puddleglum) - "this made-up world licks the real one clean." If the choice is between Aslan and contemporary taste, I'll cast my lot with the lion every time.