Beyond spectacular in it's scope and ambition, "The Golden Compass" is the latest in a series of thrilling fantasies in the tradition of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Chronicles of Narnia." Like those films, "Compass" is a visual feast that transports you to an alternate world of jaw-dropping awe, unforgettable images, and pure adventure.
"The Golden Compass" is set in a 19th century-ish steampunk world -- a dramatic place of gargantuan zeppelins and sailing ships, intricately crafted clockwork winged insects, a slow-talkin' cowpoke and a dapper Oxford don/adventurer.
Majestically scored by Alexandre Desplat and sweepingly photographed by Henry Braham, "The Golden Compass" is a rich and rewarding motion picture. Laced with landscapes and adventurous set-pieces to marvel over -- the climactic nighttime battle pitting the endangered children, flying witches and Iorek against the hired Magisterium cronies and their wolf d??ns is thrilling. Whether or not author Philip Pullman's other two volumes in the trilogy, "The Subtle Knife" and "The Amber Spyglass," will be put into production at New Line Cinema depends on the financial success of "The Golden Compass."
A beautifully made, spectacularly designed family movie,"The Golden Compass"dares to ask serious questions about good and evil, and free will. It is an equal parts thoughtful and exhilarating joy to behold.
It is rated PG-13 for sequences of fantasy violence and has a running time of one hour, 53 minutes. Part of The Smith's annual 'Winter Brrreak" film series during area schools' scheduled February recess, it will also be shown as a double feature with "Enchanted" at noon on February 20.