The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005) Review: A Faith-Filled Fantasy Adventure

Overview

Directed by Andrew Adamson, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a visually stunning and emotionally stirring adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ beloved classic. Set during World War II, the story follows the Pevensie siblings—Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter—as they stumble into the magical world of Narnia through a wardrobe. In Narnia, they become part of a grand struggle between good and evil, guided by the noble lion Aslan. Rich with Biblical allegory, themes of redemption, sacrifice, and forgiveness, the film beautifully captures the heart of Lewis’ masterpiece while delivering a family-friendly adventure.

Comprehensive Analysis

Story: 95/100 (Timeless and Powerful)

The film stays faithful to the source material, weaving a compelling tale of hope and redemption. The narrative moves seamlessly between the Pevensie children’s personal growth and the larger battle for Narnia’s freedom. Edmund’s betrayal and eventual reconciliation mirror the Gospel’s themes of sin, repentance, and grace, while Aslan’s sacrificial death and resurrection draw unmistakable parallels to Jesus Christ. The pacing is well-executed, balancing moments of wonder, humor, and drama, though some may find the early exposition slightly slow.

Acting: 88/100 (Charming and Relatable)

The young cast, including Georgie Henley as Lucy and Skandar Keynes as Edmund, deliver heartfelt performances, grounding the fantastical story with genuine emotion. Tilda Swinton is captivating as the icy White Witch, exuding menace and cunning. Liam Neeson’s voice work as Aslan brings wisdom and gravitas to the character, making him a perfect embodiment of strength and compassion.

Direction: 90/100 (Heartfelt and Focused)

Andrew Adamson expertly balances the film’s epic scale with its intimate, character-driven moments. He captures the essence of Lewis’ Christian allegory while ensuring the story remains accessible to a broad audience. The tone is earnest and reverent, with moments of humor and lightness that make the heavier themes resonate even more.

Cinematography: 94/100 (Breathtaking and Immersive)

The film’s visuals are stunning, with sweeping shots of snow-covered landscapes, lush forests, and epic battlefields. The contrast between the frozen, oppressive Narnia under the White Witch’s rule and the vibrant world restored by Aslan’s sacrifice visually reinforces the story’s themes of redemption and renewal.

Music: 92/100 (Stirring and Memorable)

Harry Gregson-Williams’ score is both epic and emotive, perfectly capturing the wonder, danger, and majesty of Narnia. The music elevates key moments, particularly Aslan’s sacrifice and the climactic battle, making them even more impactful.

Faith-Based Insights

Faith Lens: 100/100 (Profoundly Redemptive and Biblical)

The film’s Christian allegory is one of its strongest aspects. Aslan’s character is a direct representation of Jesus Christ, exemplifying sacrificial love, forgiveness, and redemption. Edmund’s journey from betrayal to grace reflects the Gospel’s message of repentance and salvation (Romans 5:8). The battle between good and evil mirrors the spiritual warfare described in Ephesians 6:12, offering a powerful reminder of the hope found in Christ’s ultimate victory.

Biblically Accurate Score: 95/100 (Deeply Aligned)

The film faithfully adapts C.S. Lewis’ allegorical elements, presenting theological truths in a way that is accessible to all ages. While some aspects of the fantasy world, such as mythical creatures, may raise questions, they serve as symbols rather than distractions from the film’s core Biblical message.

Magic and Witchcraft Score: 75/100 (Symbolic and Contextual)

The film includes magical elements, such as the White Witch’s powers and Aslan’s miracles. However, these are clearly delineated as good versus evil, with Aslan’s actions reflecting divine power and the Witch’s magic symbolizing sin and corruption. Parents may want to discuss the fantasy elements with younger viewers in light of Deuteronomy 18:10-12.

Suggestive Themes Score (Sexuality and Relationships): 100/100 (Completely Clean)

The film contains no romantic or suggestive content, focusing entirely on familial love, loyalty, and sacrifice.

Creation and Origins Score: 90/100 (Reflective of Divine Creation)

The beauty and majesty of Narnia reflect the awe-inspiring nature of God’s creation (Psalm 19:1). While the origins of Narnia are not explored in this film, the story celebrates stewardship and the restoration of a broken world.

Language Score: 100/100 (Completely Clean)

The dialogue is free of any profanity or inappropriate language, making it suitable for all audiences.

Alcohol/Drug Use Score: 100/100 (Absent)

There are no depictions of alcohol or drug use.

Sex/Nudity Score: 100/100 (Completely Clean)

There is no sexual content or nudity in the film.

Blood/Gore Score: 90/100 (Minimal and Tasteful)

The battle sequences are intense but free of graphic violence, with the focus remaining on courage and heroism rather than brutality.

Moral and Thematic Evaluation

Moral Watchpoints

The film’s depiction of magic and the White Witch’s cruelty may warrant discussion with younger viewers. However, these elements are presented within a clear moral framework that distinguishes good from evil.

Worldview Analysis: 95/100 (Christ-Centered and Hopeful)

The film beautifully portrays a Christ-centered worldview, emphasizing grace, sacrifice, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Aslan’s resurrection serves as a poignant reminder of the hope and redemption found in Christ’s victory over death.

Redemptive Potential: 100/100 (Profoundly Transformative)

The story’s redemptive arc is its crowning achievement, offering a moving depiction of grace and forgiveness. Edmund’s transformation from a selfish, sinful boy to a redeemed and courageous young man highlights the power of Aslan’s (and Christ’s) love.

Parental Guidance

Recommended Age: 8+ for mild fantasy violence and intense themes.
Discussion Prompts:

• How does Aslan’s sacrifice mirror Jesus’ death and resurrection (John 3:16)?

• What can we learn from Edmund’s journey of betrayal, repentance, and forgiveness?

• How does the restoration of Narnia reflect God’s promise to make all things new (Revelation 21:5)?

Favorite Moment

Aslan’s sacrifice at the Stone Table, followed by his triumphant resurrection, is the emotional and spiritual centerpiece of the film, encapsulating the Gospel message with breathtaking power.

Favorite Line

“Wrong will be right when Aslan comes in sight.” – A hopeful reminder of the victory of good over evil.

Skip to the Verdict

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a visually stunning and spiritually rich adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ classic tale. With its profound Christian allegory, breathtaking visuals, and emotionally resonant story, it is a must-watch for families and believers seeking an inspiring and faith-filled cinematic experience.

Final Scores:

• Story: 95/100

• Acting: 88/100

• Direction: 90/100

• Cinematography: 94/100

• Music: 92/100

• Faith Lens: 100/100

• Biblically Accurate Score: 95/100

• Magic and Witchcraft Score: 75/100

• Suggestive Themes Score: 100/100

• Creation and Origins Score: 90/100

• Language Score: 100/100

• Alcohol/Drug Use Score: 100/100

• Sex/Nudity Score: 100/100

• Blood/Gore Score: 90/100

• Overall: 95/100 – Spiritually Rich and Visually Stunning

If You Liked This, Try…

• "Prince Caspian" (2008): The sequel to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

• "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" (2001): Another epic fantasy with strong moral themes.

• "The Pilgrim’s Progress" (2019): A faithful animated adaptation of the classic Christian allegory.

Reflection Prompt

Reflect on John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” How does Aslan’s sacrifice in the film remind us of Christ’s ultimate act of love and redemption?