Has anyone seen The Golden Compass?

Question

I was thinking of going to the Cinema and watching it tonight. I have read the books and really enjoyed them. Will I be let down by the film as it's had a lot of mixed reviews?

Answer 1

I went to see "The Golden Compass" on its opening night, and it's wrapped in very dark themes that are very intense for children -- the very ones who are the most likely to see it over and over, if it's worth seeing over and over. Right as the world gets ready for Christmas, Pullman and New Line have kids delving into witches, child abduction, medical experiments (on the abducted children), etc. Before I went (to see the movie for the purpose of reviewing it) I described the movie as gently as I could to my daughter, and even tried to make it sound appealing. She said she'd "maybe" want to see it. I have a feeling that will be the case for a lot of kids, especially in the United States, where most people still believe in God in one form or another. "Killing God" won't go over too well here, but I suspect that in countries where religion has receded more, the reception to the film will be a bit warmer.

Still, at a reported $180 million, "The Golden Compass" is basically in the tank. The opening weekend take was about 1/3 of what it needed to be to put itself in the blockbuster category. For comparison, consider that "Alvin and the Chipmunks" did more than $40 in the U.S. on its opening weekend, and it was ahead of what the "Golden Compass" took in for two weekends. I sincerely think that some investors were willing to fund this movie out of principles, as they saw this as a movie everyone "should" see in order to be enlightened. But Hollywood is still, at its core, a business, and no one will take too well to losing millions of dollars on principle. Those concerned about the movie warping the minds of susceptible young ones may not have to worry much; it's turning out to be a film without a core audience, which may make "The Golden Compass" one of the biggest busts in recent history.

You can read my review at:

http://www.the-trades.com/article.php?id=6107

Answer 2

My children thought it was ok (8 &9) They have not spoke about it since which is usually a good indication it was watchable not great.

My hubby and I were a little disappointed about it and were expecting more than what we got.

You really need to watch for yourself though and make up your own mind. Bear in mind that there are very few films which are as good as the book.

Answer 3

I enjoyed the film (but I've not read the book). My daughter also enjoyed it and she has read the books.

In my experience films are never as good as the book. I've never seen a film of a book I enjoyed that didn't leave me feeling let down.

Answer 4

you'll be very pleased with Lyra

You'll be a bit disorientated with the way they've hacked around the plot (not just in this film, but evidently between the three).

Think of it as a different thing entirely.

It's a better adaptation than any of the Harry Potters (except for the wonderful Alfonso Cuaron version of Azkhaban). LOTR seemed like a better job, but perhaps because people don't get so emotionally connected with LOTR as they do with Northern Lights et al.

Answer 5

I will watch the movie eventually, when I have nothing else to do.

I don't care about it being "anti-catholic"...what does that mean? I've seen enough "anti-child" behavior in Catholic churches to last me a lifetime.

The truth is, I try to steer clear of any movie that has Nicole Kidman. She is in movies that ALWAYS are reviewed as being soooo controversial, and they end up being soooo SHALLOW and BORING. Always a disappointment....snore.

Answer 6

They seem 2 have made it very well.
But the plot was maybe a little disoriented and some key scenes were jumped through a bit too quick.
if u want a better experience, read the books-they will help you understand the plot better.

Answer 7

It is a really good film.
The only thing is because its had so much attention and hype you expect it to be the greatest two hous of entertainment ever, but its not.
For what it is, a fantasy film, it is really good, the effects and characters are both amazing, but because of all the attention that it got it will never be as good as you would expect.
I still think you should see it.

Answer 8

2 Peter 2:1-3 : But there were also false prophets in Israel,just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach their destructive heresies about God and even turn against their Master who bought them. Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of them,Christ and his true way will be slandered. IN THEIR GREED THEY WILL MAKE UP CLEVER LIES TO GET HOLD OF YOUR MONEY. But God condemned them long ago,and their destruction is on the way.

Answer 9

Took my kids last night

One had read the book...loved it (only moaned about a couple of things especially the ending)

One hadn't read it and also loved it (was abit confused to what dust was)

Quite slow, but I would recommend it (Nicole Kidman...very suited to role)
Wished they had done a bit more about the water gypsies though
The Daemons were good

Answer 10

If you're a fan of the books you won't like it... :)

The visuals are stunning, and the story line makes no damn sense whatsoever if you haven't read the books, and if you've read the books you know what's missing and you're disappointed....