Perhaps you’ve already heard a bit about the movie The Golden Compass due out this week. It stars Nicole Kidman, and is being billed as a children’s fantasy film. It’s based on the first book of a series written by Philip Pullman, an outspoken atheist who wrote the books as an alternative to The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. While much of the anti-religion sentiment has been removed from the film, many have expressed concern that fans will read the books and be influenced by its dark messages.
I don’t want to jump into a rant or any kind of extreme action. (I am saddened by the tendency of Christians to jump on a “banning” band wagon. BUT, it is important for us to be informed and be aware of what could be harmful for our children.) I want to share some resources available for you so you can make an informed decision about the movie and book for your family.
This article is a good overview of the movie.
Here is a good review of the book the movie is based on (as well as the other books in the trilogy).
Here is a site that has some background on the author and the books.
I hope this can help you make an informed decision, as well as give you some things you can talk about with your older child if he or she is interested in the book or movie.
Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8
