One of the more compelling aspects of Prince Caspian is the melding of various mythologies. Greco-Roman mythology meshes effortlessly with sorcery and all sorts of witchcraft to create a hybrid stew of characters. There are minotaurs, black and red dwarves, centaurs, griffins, satyrs, and other creatures. The creatures are given more mobility in the sequel, too, as Adamson seems more secure in allowing his characters progress and range.
Walden’s Narnia series isn’t without its problems, of course. Most of the difficulties with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe are present with Prince Caspian. Perhaps the biggest hitch is a lack of rationalization as to why the Narnians need Aslan. As Roger Ebert asked in his review of Prince Caspian: “why can’t the Narnians just lead themselves?” And in essence, this is where the Narnia films come down to rather elementary items of faith and religion. We, as the audience, are told to “just believe in Aslan.” Hell, Lucy does. But the Narnians, Pevensies, et al. probably can lead themselves and can mete out their own will and take responsibility for their own actions. Where would that leave the likes of Aslan?
Prince Caspian isn’t about asking the big questions, though. It is, by and large, about the effects and the talking animals and the battle sequences. And in that case, this sequel is a colossal step in the right direction. It is an imposing spectacle, brimming with charmingly enjoyable characters and uncluttered effects. Adamson’s direction is more competent and fresh, too, and the picture is by and large pleasant. Just try not to think too much.
The Disney Three-Disc Collector's Edition includes the DisneyFile Digital Copy for download on to laptop or PC in case you you want to watch Prince Caspian "on the go."
The second disc includes the usual litany of bonus features, including a featurette of behind-the-scenes goodies ("Inside Narnia: The Adventure Returns") and a rather comprehensive look at the set design. Creature design and special effects are also given quite a bit of time on the bonus features, with a few segments on the creation of the talking animals and the "walking trees."
Also included are some deleted scenes and "The Bloopers of Narnia," the latter of which is slightly ruined by the insistent, cheery music.
Overall, however, this is an entertaining set that will be sure to find itself under many a Christmas tree this holiday season. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (Three-Disc Collector's Edition) is also available on Disney Blu-Ray.
![The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (Three-Disc Collector's Edition+ Digital Copy and BD Live) [Blu-ray]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61xn7z%2BhaPL._SL120_.jpg)
Article comments
1 - Sachin
in this review,reviewer constantly asks why believe in ASLAN.
well if you have seen the film with attention then you will notice that without ASLAN PETER TRIED TO ATTACK THE CASTLE OF MIRAZ WITH MANY NARNIANS AND CASPIAN............
BUT WHAT HAPPENDED
HE FAILED.
2 - Jordan Richardson
I actually said that many of the characters have moved on from believing in Aslan. Lewis, in his story, illustrates that it is much to their peril. The Narnians, it seems, cannot win in battle without Aslan. Whether that is the result of poor planning or fighting without the Lion is made relatively clear, as the Narnians must have faith in Aslan in order to survive without constant danger.
Essentially, the characters exist to fulfill requirements and move on. There are prophecies to be fulfilled and the characters, all of which we assume have free will, simply move in and out of the picture (or the book) to do so. Characters have two options, usually: believe in Aslan or don't and perish or, as you say, fail. That notion is problematic, to me, and oversimplifies the faith conversation. And that, my caps-lock-loving friend, is why I asked those questions.
Essentially, we are constantly told throughout this films and the books that the Narnians need others to lead them and that the Narnians need faith in Aslan to guide them. Lest they fail. Either the Narnians need the Pevensie kids or Aslan or...who knows...
The point is that free will, responsibility, etc. all come with a sort of "theological rescue" sooner or later. And for that reason, I daresay that Narnia means very little outside of a theological model to demonstrate how much we need "God" and how little we ought to rely on ourselves.
3 - SACHIN
Narnia need Pevensies
and
Pevensies need.................Aslan.