Stewart 5

Melissa and I saw The Golden Compass today. i liked the film – fantasy, adventure, parallel worlds, action, great visuals. one of those movies where there is a child as the protagonist, and they are brave and do what is right.

at the same time, i have read a number of articles (referred to here http://www.stewart5.net/?p=98 ). So, i also have lenses on the film coloured by what I know of the whole series of books. the “first things” article linked above goes into great detail on the meanings of significant people, events and concepts in the book series. mind you, i have not read the books myself. at this point, i would like to just to compare to what i have been reading by others.

my take on the film on its own, esp. regarding the “messages” it communicates…. i think it really loudly proclaims that individuals should be free to exercise their free will. the bad guys are the Magisterium, who try to control what everyone thinks, but in a “nice way.” They are set in opposition to the scientist/university guys who are encouraging free though, which generally comes in conflict with what the Magisterium wants.

I guess in general, I don’t have a problem with the film or what it says. I also have problems with big ominous controlling organizations that discourage questions and free thinking (see my post from a few days ago http://www.stewart5.net/?p=97 ). however, from the books, I can see where Pullman is taking us, and I am not as comfortable with that. I also think the author makes some unfair characterizations and attacks on God, the Church, faith, and miscellaneous values. But again, that’s not in THIS movie per se.

I would take my kids to see it and talk about it with them. I’m not the type to shelter my kids from real world perspectives. Like it or not, I think the perspectives and values of the author are those of many (most?) people. I want my kids (and other adults, frankly) to be able to talk about what we think, where we agree/disagree, etc.

DISCLAIMER: the opinions expressed above are those of ARTHUR and do not necessarily reflect the perspectives of Melissa or anyone else in this family