All The Chronicles of Narnia Movies, Ranked
In the wake of Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings’ successes, studios sought another fantasy series. The Chronicles of Narnia emerged as an ideal option. C.S. Lewis’ seven-part fantasy tale had a devoted audience eager for its beloved characters and creatures on-screen. Lewis resisted selling his work's rights during his life, fearing live-action would depict fantasy beings as "blasphemous." Nevertheless, the Narnia films progressed animatedly with CGI innovations. One notable achievement was presenting Aslan, a fully digital character played by Liam Neeson. The films also successfully cast young actors.
The initial film garnered financial success, but the subsequent two movies struggled, leaving a proposed fourth film in development limbo. By 2011, the franchise rights lapsed from producer Walden Media. Joe Johnston was set to direct an adaptation of The Silver Chair, but plans ceased once Netflix secured a multi-year partnership with the C.S. Lewis Company to create new films and series. Matthew Aldrich became the franchise's guiding screenwriter, yet the lack of major updates leaves uncertainty about its future.
Despite the unclear path ahead, The Chronicles of Narnia remains a captivating example of an incomplete franchise. Below are the three films ranked from least to most favorable.
3. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
The third and unexpectedly final entry of the Narnia series underwent significant changes. Directed by Michael Apted instead of Andrew Adamson, this film focused on younger siblings Edmund and Lucy. It approached the story darker, departing from the sentimentality of earlier installments. However, Apted's attempt to create an "everyman" perspective feels conflicting against Lewis’s family-friendly narrative.
In this installment, Edmund and Lucy return to Narnia to assist Caspian (Ben Barnes) in rescuing seven lost lords. While the corrupting spirit poses each character's fears, the grotesque monsters lack the menacing depth expected. The pacing misconstrues the film, leaving little time to savor its many environments. A climactic battle with a giant CGI serpent seems tonal with the earlier films, but it contrasts the deeper psychological themes Apted intended.
Skandar Keynes and Georgie Henley showcase solid performances, maturing their roles underscored by the challenges of leadership. Conversely, Barnes prevails in his portrayal of Prince Caspian, humorously improving his uncanny accent from before. Unfortunately, cousin Eustace Scrubb’s (Will Poulter) character slips from amusing into annoying, creating heavier burdens on this already stacked storyline.
2. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Narnia: Prince Caspian feels less enchanting than its predecessor. It centers largely on political dynamics, fortifying darker themes at mixed results. While necessary character growth comes from the four Pevensies, the experience of storytelling lacks the whimsicality of fairy tales, leading to a lengthy film at 150 minutes.
The quest focuses on Caspian's aspiration to reclaim his throne from villainous Uncle Miraz (Sergio Castellitto). However, this narrative feels shallow, favoring exploration of the Pevensie's loss of innocence instead. Caspian's loyalty feels unearned, often overshadowed by Peter’s leadership as his attempts are frequently complicated by lackluster delivery hampered by bad accents. Castellitto delivers a caricatured villain well amid constant action sequences, but the family tensions halt progress.
Authentic struggles emerge between Peter and Edmund, although the female siblings suffer from diminished roles in what Adamson labeled "more of a boys’ movie." Lucy’s enduring compassion offers momentary warmth in a bleak setting, but suddenly introduced romance with Caspian feels unnecessary. New characters like Trumpkin (Peter Dinklage), Nikabrik (Warwick Davis), and Reepicheep (Eddie Izzard) integrate seamlessly but shift narratives. The action overall impressively utilized for a PG film crafts an epic ambiance.
1. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe epitomizes the series' strengths, offering a coming-of-age narrative rooted in youthful hope. The magic of Narnia’s first reveal invokes unrepeatable excitement; its combination of practical makeup and stunning CGI withstood the test of time. Neeson’s role as Aslan brings warmth and guidance, although his significance diminishes in further films.
Tilda Swinton’s portrayal of the White Witch is captivating; her sweeping costume and adorned character contribute depth to an otherwise commonplace villainess. James McAvoy’s faun, Mr. Tumnus, stands out as an engaging mythical figure whose interplay in aiding Edmund and Lucy adds complexity. His poignant fate evokes genuine emotion, marking a series highlight.
The Pevensies remain at the plot's core, and this film most effectively utilizes the ensemble. Each child undergoes significant character development: Peter finds true leadership; Susan learns compassion; Edmund grasps the value of honesty; Lucy embodies bravery. Their paths intertwine effortlessly, creating authentic chemistry amid digestible story arcs. While moments could seem overly neat, including the unnecessary flash-forward, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe showcases a balanced and heartwarming adventure. It validates and surpasses Lewis's trepidation that his Narnia could face a poor cinematic turn.
Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.
