By Mari Miyachi
This past weekend, I took a break from my obligations for a trip to my local movie theater. It had been months since I last watched a movie in theaters, but I was drawn by one particular film and could not wait for its DVD release. In fact, I had been eagerly anticipating this opening for two years, counting down the days till its arrival.
Finally, I satisfied my desires, and was able to watch "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian." For those who are not familiar with the story, it is the sequel to the popular movie "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," and is based on the seven-piece series by C.S. Lewis.
Prior to seeing the movie, I was torn between excitement for the big-screen adaptation, and anxiety, for movies rarely come close to the novels they are based on. The movie, which stayed very true to the plot of the book, did not disappoint. Though the parts of many characters were cut or dramatically underplayed, the general themes of courage and faith remained intact and powerful.
"Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia" by C.S. Lewis, from which the current blockbuster is based, is the fourth book in the seven-part Chronicles of Narnia. It follows the familiar story of the four Pevensie children and their return to Narnia. Though only a year has passed in their world, 1,300 years have passed in Narnia, which is now in ruins, and ruled under the repressive regime of King Miraz. Prince Caspian, the nephew of Miraz and the true king of Narnia, is helped by the Pevensies in his quest to capture the throne.
The story, like "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," shares a magical world with the audience, a cross between the very real Pevensies and the far more mystical creatures of Narnia. Though Prince Caspian and the rest of the Chronicles of Narnia are oftentimes overshadowed by the critical acclaim and enormous popularity of "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," all are strong novels in their own right and equally captivate the reader.
I would give Prince Caspian a 8 out of 10. Narnia and its many inhabitants remain fascinating, and the courage of the Pevensies, the Prince and Aslan is inspiring. However, the plot is slower than that of "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," and it is this lack of pace that dims the novel in comparison to its predecessor. While both successfully present a Narnia in turmoil and a multi-faceted set of characters who save the land, there is a freshness to "The Lion" that is missing in "Prince Caspian."
However, C.S. Lewis was a gifted author and his brilliant vision shines through the entire series of the Chronicles of Narnia. "Prince Caspian" leaves the reader satisfied, and carries on the series successfully. For anyone who has already read "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," I would highly recommend continuing with the Chronicles. However, if this is your first dip into the works of C.S. Lewis, "The Lion" is certainly the place to start. From there, many a book and movie will follow, as the land of Narnia manages to captivate almost any audience.
Mari Miyachi is an Andover resident and student at Phillips Academy who reviews books for young adults.
