The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005) is a large-scale fantasy film directed by Andrew Adamson, based on the classic novel by C. S. Lewis. The movie became one of the most notable attempts to bring classic literary fantasy to the screen — a story rooted not only in adventure, but also in mythology, allegory, and the theme of moral choice.

Plot and Concept

During World War II, four children — Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy Pevensie — are evacuated from London and find themselves in an old country house, where they discover a magical wardrobe. Passing through it, they enter Narnia — a world trapped in eternal winter under the rule of the White Witch.
Gradually, the children learn of an ancient prophecy foretelling the return of the lion Aslan — the true ruler of Narnia, whose arrival is meant to restore the balance between good and evil. The story unfolds as a coming-of-age journey, in which each character must choose between fear, betrayal, responsibility, and sacrifice.

Critical Analysis

From a genre perspective, the film represents classic fairy-tale fantasy, aimed at a family audience while still possessing notable dramatic depth.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its mythological structure. Narnia is portrayed not merely as a magical realm, but as a space of moral trials, where actions carry irreversible consequences.
Aslan serves as a symbol of justice and self-sacrifice, while Edmund’s arc is among the most psychologically nuanced in the film, illustrating how weakness and resentment can lead to betrayal.

Visually, the film blends practical sets with CGI, striving to preserve a sense of a “tangible fairy tale” rather than a fully digital world.

Notable Facts

• The film was the first big-budget cinematic adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia.
• Aslan was created using CGI, with an emphasis on realistic movement and animal behavior.
• The movie won an Academy Award for Best Makeup.
• The story is rich in allegorical and Christian motifs embedded in the original novel.
• The film achieved significant commercial success and launched a full-fledged film franchise.

Soundtrack and Musical Atmosphere

The score was composed by Harry Gregson-Williams. The soundtrack blends symphonic fantasy with choral and ethnic elements, creating the feel of an ancient epic.
The musical themes clearly separate the human world from Narnia, while Aslan’s leitmotif emphasizes the character’s nobility, tragedy, and grandeur. The music functions as an emotional guide, enhancing the fairy-tale atmosphere and dramatic climaxes.

Editorial Conclusion

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a fantasy about growing up and responsibility, disguised as a magical adventure.
The film remains significant due to its faithfulness to the literary source, its clear moral framework, and its ability to speak to both children and adults alike — through the language of myth, choice, and sacrifice.