NZ film divides British critics

The film adaptation of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has divided British film reviewers ahead of its New Zealand release on Friday week.

While the Times newspaper has said it is as "moving as a pantomime horse" the Daily Telegraph has called the film, based on a C.S. Lewis story and shot in New Zealand, an "enthralling epic" - "an exciting adventure story for children".

Daily Mail critic Christopher Tookey has dubbed it the film of the year.

However, the Times reviewer Dominic Wells said it fails the fantasy-story test of obeying its internal logic.

He says the film's downfall is that it has been sanitised - "despite battle scenes, not a drop of blood is shed" - to maximise its audience by ensuring nothing stricter than a parental-guidance certificate from censors.

The film, which retells the story of the magical but troubled land of Narnia, found through the back of a British wardrobe, is to open globally and in New Zealand on December 9.

The story, published in 1950, is of four siblings - Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy - sent to live in the country to escape the bombing of London during World War II.

After stumbling through the wardrobe, they help overthrow a tyrannical witch.

The Daily Telegraph's John Hiscock says the lack of gore may disappoint some teenage boys, but its classic story of good versus evil, the rousing battle scenes and the charm of its four stars will ensure its success.

"It's more whimsical than Harry Potter, not as dark or hard-edged, but it achieves what it sets out to."

Tookey singles out the White Witch, played by Tilda Swinton, "for her cold, cruel and commanding performance".

"The quality of the four young leading actors is exceptional - light years ahead of the Harry Potter cast, even on a first attempt.

"Despite the long running time [over two hours], I would recommend Narnia even for small children."

The newspaper says plans are reportedly under way for a sequel, Prince Caspian.