Common Sense Media Review
Timeless classic faithfully rendered; some battle scenes.
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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
What's the Story?
Based on C.S. Lewis' beloved novel, THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE begins when the Pevensie children—Peter (William Moseley), Edmund (Skandar Keynes), Susan (Anna Popplewell), and Lucy (Georgie Henley)—are sent away from the dangers of World War II to live in the country with Professor Kirke (Jim Broadbent). While playing hide and seek, the children discover a magical wardrobe that serves as a portal to Narnia, a kingdom under the power of the evil White Witch (Tilda Swinton). When 6-year-old Lucy first meets the faun Mr. Tumnus (James McAvoy), her siblings won't believe her. But soon all four children have tumbled through the portal into Narnia and find they must rescue Edmund, who's been enticed (and kidnapped) by the Witch. While the Witch holds Narnia under a wintry sway, she dreads the return of Aslan the lion (voiced by Liam Neeson), the character C.S. Lewis endows with savior-like properties. The Pevensies discover their own strengths, as they learn of a prophecy declaring them crucial to saving Narnia. After accepting their destiny to save the kingdom, with Aslan's help, they set out to challenge the witch's reign and return warmth to Narnia.
Is It Any Good?
This thrilling adaptation of a classic tale makes a case for love among siblings by granting them a common enemy. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe has a lush forest full of animals and mythical creatures that recall the Lord of the Rings franchise. Including everything from cheetahs and horses and centaurs to Aslan's crew of ogres, dwarves, and minotaurs, Narnia gathers a diverse group of mythical creatures. While the story was initially written as a Christian allegory, none of the Christian elements are obvious, and viewers could watch the movie without realizing any of this. This riveting tale of redemption is likely to warm audiences' hearts.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the bonds among the four siblings in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. How do they comfort and provoke one another while away from their mother and fearful about the war? How is Narnia a fantasy born of this combination of supporting one another and concern about their future?
How do the animals and creatures in Narnia represent different aspects of the children's daily lives—their courage, fear, and desires? How do characters demonstrate teamwork and compassion?
Did you notice any Christian iconography in the film? Does the film's allegorical story affect your viewing experience? If so, in what way?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 9, 2005
- On DVD or streaming : May 27, 0016
- Cast : Tilda Swinton , Georgie Henley , Skandar Keynes , William Moseley , James McAvoy
- Director : Andrew Adamson
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Buena Vista Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Book Characters , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Teamwork
- Run time : 143 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : battle sequences and frightening moments
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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