While the Chronicles of Narnia began as a fantastical children's series, meant to inspire the creative imagination of youth around the world, it has quickly grown into a successful movie franchise. Bringing the magical world and characters presented in the novel to life has raised these epic adventure stories to a new level of excitement and popularity. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, is the latest installation of the series, and was originally released into theaters on December 10, 2010. The DVD is due to be released on April 8, 2011, and will also feature a 3D option for those who want an enhanced viewing experience. The film stars a familiar cast of Ben Barnes, Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, Will Poulter, and the talented Liam Neeson. Directed by Michael Apted and distributed by Fox, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is an action-packed family fantasy, rated PG due to some action sequences that could frighten very young children.
This film focuses on another visit to Narnia by the main characters; brother and sister Edmund and Lucy Pevensie. Upon their return, the children meet with Prince Caspian, who requests their presence on a long sea voyage. They embark upon this voyage in a coveted ship known as The Dawn Treader, bravely facing the dangers they know lie ahead. They are met with these dangers in the forms of dwarves, dragons, merpeople, warriors, and a number of other magical obstacles that must be defeated.
In addition to promising family fun and excitement, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader also offers a number of important life lessons and advice to developing viewers. This is one thing that makes this series so popular, because parents know that, in addition to being entertained, their children will be growing from their involvement in this epic fantasy literature.
While this film still holds much appeal for dedicated Narnia fans, many have been disappointed by this film when comparing it to the previous two. The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is the third installment in the Narnia series, and many complain that it doesn't provide the impressive graphics and visual effects of the first two. Additionally, it lacks the previous excitement provided by the introduction of multiple new characters. While past films have been full of odd entities and fantastical personalities, the latest plot doesn't offer a lot of new character development. Though it does have some disadvantages when compared to its previous counterparts, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader still offers a lot of nostalgic value for those who grew up with the series, and a number of adventure sequences that promise good times for all.