The first movie they made was amazing. It sang. I wasn't concerned for the next, per se, but I was...apprehensive. Prince Caspian exceeded all expectations. It was a little odd at first because the children have grown up a lot, especially Lucy. The filmmakers were very prudent in giving Lucy a lot of screen time in the beginning, allowing the viewer to get used to how different she looks before more focus is needed in the story. Very clever.
The film was paced but exciting. It was funny and cute where it needed to be, and all the characters were not only likable but believable. The changes in storyline from Lewis' book were all brilliant and entertaining, like showing the attack on the castle.
Like the previous trip to Narnia, this adventure was moving and sweet, demonstrating the family dynamic of the Pevensie siblings perfectly. Edward has matured, and he was very fun to watch, especially when Peter is involved. Peter, of course, is so darn good looking that you can't help cheering him on, even though he makes several costly mistakes and is a bit of a brat sometimes - with good reason, but nonetheless... Prince Caspian was a force to be reckoned with - he was handsome and charming and an able swordsman. But the real star, for me, was Susan. She is strong and brave and sweet, and smart, and she's beautiful: an inspiring combination. One can see in her the very epitome of female ability - how empowering she is!
I was completely lost in the film. My heart leapt when they found victory, and broke for the ones who fell. It was almost as if we were connected, like their joy was my joy and their sorrow mine, too.
The end of the film sets up perfectly for the next adventure, a little bittersweet because of the parting of the ways, but understandable, too. There will be no surprise when the two characters don't return to Narnia, and I admire the way in which the filmmakers made that distinction.
A truly, truly, beautiful film which I fully intend on watching over and over and over - I might even like it better than Wardrobe. SEE IT.
