Movie Review: The Golden Compass

Much ado about this flick...but I mostly wanted to see it for the bears. I did read up on the controversy surrounding the movie (and also the books), so I would have a better idea what I was getting into. I have not read the books--although now I kind of want to. This is billed as a sort of mythic journey, good vs. evil. Mission accomplished.

What you get: a clear (but possibly watered down) explanation of what was going on. You can understand what Lyra's mission is, and in a basic form, what Dust, Daemon, and the Magisteryium are. You understand the danger. You get excellent animation. The bears are totally worth it! You also get a surprising heroine (as opposed to all those heroes in LOTR, HP, et al) with real smarts and strength--you empathize with her and she draws you into the story.

What you don't get. Gay angels, for starters. Don't know what that was all about, but not a-one in the film. A heaping serving of atheism--if I don't miss my mark, this is going to be a debate about free will. It was easy for me to see the film was criticizing established religion, and perhaps the Catholic church specifically. And the atmosphere of the film is slightly Nazi Germany, shown in uniforms, and the scientific experiments.

Can you take your kid? Yep. They won't 'catch' atheism from this movie. They will see a character their own age gain courage and strength as she battles to save her friend and understand her own place in the world. I give it a B+. I'd see it again just for the bears...and the voice of Sam Elliott.

For a hilarious review from the Bob & Sheri Radio Show, click HERE