Prince Caspian Preview
The Evangelical Alliance Scotland recently co-hosted a preview screening of the new Narnia film, Prince Caspian (release date: 27 June) with SCYWF 
(Scottish Christian Youth Workers Forum). The screening was an opportunity for church and youth leaders to engage with the evangelistic opportunities of the film before its general release, while also hearing about some of the resources that have been produced by EA member organisation Damaris. These resources are available at www.damaris.org/narnia.
Film review by Geoffrey Stevenson:
Prince Caspian is the most martial of the 'Narniad', and director Andrew Adamson has even added another battle for good measure. It’s a kind of cut-down Lord of the Rings for the younger set, and as in Tolkien’s Christian-inspired fantasy (though this is less evident in Jackson’s film versions) Grace abounds: salvation is never entirely about heroism and courage, but about (for our part) being disciplined, obedient and faithful and able to grow through the setbacks and tragedies. With a darker tone, set early on by the haggard and suspicious Narnians who have been in hiding from cruel oppressors under an evil king, the film is more knowing, less innocent, even wittier than its predecessor. This is thoroughly enjoyable and accomplished filmic storytelling. With the best Aslan yet, Christian symbolism and metaphor abound, but beyond the battle against evil, you have to be looking for it, and as always, you have to be careful in drawing Biblical parallels and moral points not to destroy the poetry of the story (as Lewis himself said).
© Geoffrey Stevenson is a popular speaker and trainer of preachers. He writes, teaches and speaks on theology and the practice of communication today. Co-author of new book Preaching with Humanity.
