Based on the novel by C.S. Lewis, “ The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe” is a well created adaptation of the second book in a series of seven. The movie tells the story of four children living in the WWII era, who find more than just winter coats in a spare room wardrobe. Once they've entered the magical kingdom of Narnia , they discover that life there is more than just fun and afternoon tea, not to mention that the four children may be the prophesized heroes who are destined to conquer the White Witch and dispel the everlasting winter that has been ruling over Narnia for so long.

Overall, the film is well crafted and convincing, while the storyline remains as true as possible to the book it's based on. Narnia's script is well written, and there are several mildly amusing scenes bound to elicit a good giggle. Computer generated graphics serve to create some of the more mythological of the characters, and unlike some films in the past, are quite convincing and more than hold their own on screen. The soundtrack consists mostly of “new age” pieces with various tracks accompanied by a choir. All elements considered, Narnia pulls off the fantasy genre while covering all the bases with equal servings of adventure and family appropriate entertainment.

While some of the characters make their appearances courtesy of stunning computer graphics, there are human actors in the movie as well. Tilda Swinton (Jadis, The White Witch) portrays evil excellently, giving the film an adversary worth fearing. Georgie Henly, Skandar Keynes, William Mosely, and Anna Popplewell (Lucy, Edmund, Peter, and Susan Pevensie in order as listed) are well cast as the slightly pretentious child heroes of the movie, while the film's supporting cast give equally enjoyable performances.

Director Andrew Adamson (co-director of “Shrek”) did a good job on The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe , and if box office figures keep rising ( Narnia earned a substantial $67 million during its opening weekend), there may be a sequel in the future. But even if there isn't a franchise in the making, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe is entertaining and applause worthy, earning itself five well deserved stars.