THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN
RYAN: The second installment of the Narnia series is finally here with “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.”
CAROLINE: Sadly, I didn’t get to attend the screening with you though honestly, I can’t say I was dying to see this since I’m less of a children’s movie fan than you are. I would imagine this film is a little more adult though, while still being rated PG.
RYAN: It’s a rare occurrence when a sequel bests its original but that has happened here. To me this film is better than the first one and it’s definitely more adult. It’s actually reminiscent of the film “Elizabeth” with Cate Blanchett. It has similar themes, but also a lot of magic and fantasy.
CAROLINE: Let’s cut to the chase: how was Liam Neeson as Aslan? I’m sure everyone’s dying to know.
RYAN: [laughs’ Aslan isn’t in it as much as the first one, but he’s great. Liam Neeson has such a commanding voice. The same kids are all back too; they’re a little bit older and they all give great performances. But the real star here is the story. It’s pretty long for a kids’ movie – about the same length as “Speed Racer” – but it’s clear and keeps you engaged the whole way through. It never lagged or felt too long.
CAROLINE: How was Ben Barnes in the lead role?
RYAN: He was fair. He wasn’t as strong as I thought he’d be. He was fine, just a bit bland.
CAROLINE: And I imagine that James McAvoy, one of our faves, isn’t back as Mr. Tumnus?
RYAN: He’s not, but Tilda Swinton is as the White Witch though she’s not credited at the start. It’s her first role since winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress and her scene is so good that you’re drooling at the screen. Overall, it’s less allegorical than the first film, except for the ending, which I won’t give away. There are some Christian themes at the end especially, and the movie’s payoff is great. You find yourself wanting and wanting throughout the movie, and at the end you get it all.
CAROLINE: You were a little worried about the movie being heavy on the war scenes. How did that turn out?
RYAN: War is only about a quarter of the film, which I was happy about because after seeing the trailer, I feared this was going to be one big war movie. There’s enough other stuff going on though.
CAROLINE: Are there any romantical moments?
RYAN: Totally! Not too many, but there’s great romantic tension throughout the whole film.
CAROLINE: What’s your bottom line?
RYAN: This movie works on all levels. It’s got great effects, it’s better than the original Narnia movie and the story is fantastic. It’s got a built-in audience from the first movie and it will not disappoint.
CAROLINE: LBH, let’s be honest – I’m still not going to see it.
RYAN: It’s your loss.