Neutered. Castrated is another, if not uglier, term. My point is The Golden Compass, based upon the novel by Philip Pullman, removed the most bold, cutting material of the book in favor of families delicate sensibilities. The novel, and the series it begins, was biting in its criticism of organized religion. Sure, the novel received its fair share of controversy, but it is a widely loved, celebrated book for children and adults alike.The film, however, snipped these parts away, glossing over possible controversy by hiding the religious undertones and giving the evil organization seemingly run, in part, by the ice cold Mrs. Coulter (Nicole Kidman) the same name, the Magisterium. And while this neutering made for an alienating viewing, and will ultimately lead to a sequel-less future, The Golden Compass is not terrible. The acting by Kidman, Daniel Craig, and the young Dakota Blue Richards is stellar. The film also looks good, with top quality graphics and sets. The only downfall is the play-it-safe script. Maybe a remake will right the wrongs of this version. Only time will tell.
Genre - Fantasy (2.5)
Screenplay (2)
Acting (3)
Production (3)
Directing (2)
I was disappointed when I saw this movie. I'd read the first book of the series - I'm still trying to get my hands on the second - and so I knew what was SUPPOSED to happen. Only to find that this movie didn't even END the way the first book ended, and instead picked a point somewhere further ahead where they thought they could stop safely. It doesn't bring you to the dark, epic conclusion that leaves you absolutely PANTING for more.
ReplyDeleteI'm brought back to a comment I made on another blog a year or so back... Commenting on how book adaptations should be more focused on staying true to a storyline - obviously a popular one, or they wouldn't want to make it into a movie; less profit if there's no fan base - and pleasing the fans of the books that are guaranteed audience than trying to make a story that EVERYONE will like.
You. Cannot. Please. EVERYONE! It doesn't happen. And to me it seemed like the producers of this movie wanted to do that.
But as you said there was also excellent acting and superb effects, and the overall image of the movie was really good.