While the penultimate film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows received an upsetting reviews from the critics, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is indeed tailing Harry Potter. Michael Apted, who according to the New York Times “ established his rapport with wee ones years ago with 7 Up!”, did try to spice up the new film from the last Narnia , however, it oddly dropped immensely compared to the first one. Furthermore, Apted brings this new film in 3D and a minor idiosyncrasies with Narnia's newest member--Eustace Scrubb played by Will Poulter. Eustace, a loquacious, irritating, displeasing, pessimistic, cousin of Edmund and Lucy can effectively turn your emotions to a roller coaster ride--from hate to love. It was a very smart move from Apted to include such a remarkable actor in the picture, who was first seen in the independent film Son of Rambow.
The film started by digitally turning an archaic looking picture into a massive, gnawing, violent, wild ocean as an escape from London to the magical world of Narnia. While the three main characters (Edmund, Lucy and Eustace) were fighting the violent waves, Prince Caspian who was manning the Dawn Treader came to the rescue and welcomed the Majesties of Narnia, including the shocked Eustace who came to explore and discover Narnia for the very first time.
The story line was not that impressive, compared to the previous installment films of Narnia. There were not enough fight scenes, unimaginable characters, and exciting frames, of which the first Narnia film had provided. When I think of Narnia, I instantly think of magic. Unfortunately, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader did not give me a magical feeling to call it a worth-while film. However, Prince Caspian maintained his magical appeal to me; and for sure for other girls or boys out there as well.
The interesting part of the plot was when Eustace turned into a dragon. The dragon did not just portray a typical untamed, emotionless beast, but rather a very compassionate, emotional, and anthropomorphic giant creature—I was personally moved when the dragon shed a tear.
On the bright side, there are countless moral lessons one can take home from this film. Truly, kids would pick up some tips on why they need to behave and be kind. Otherwise, the spell might turn them into another hideous creature. Since it is a holiday season, I think the film offers a message of love, giving, and compassion. For this film I give 2 ½ stars.
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