Last week, I brought my children to watch the 3-D movie adapted from the C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia series. This was book five of his 7-parter children's adventure series; only 3 have been made into motion pictures so far. The first that appeared was The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , followed by Prince Caspian. In this recent movie, the screenplay writer and director exercised a lot of freedom to depart from the original script written by Lewis in the 1950s. However, watching reel movie, you would realise that there're lessons to learn as it applies to real life as well.
This is the first time we are watching a movie with 3-D effect together and it was quite an experience; it brings the characters of the show nearer to you for good theatrical effect. Of course, you would have to put on special googles that they provide. Some don't like wearing the googles though, well cheer up, the 2-D version also came out last Thursday. Buying a 3-D ticket would set you back by another about $3 compared to a 2-D version. Looks like we're going to have more movies being churned out with 3-D effects in future, until of course the novelty wears off.
The movie began with the Pevensies' children Edmund and Lucy, together with their cousin Eustace, going back to the magical land of Narnia through a picture hanging on a wall. Edmund and Lucy were reunited with Prince Caspian (or rather King now) on board the Dawn Treader, albeit with a reluctant crew Eustace, who couldn't help griping along the way. The lessons to be learnt as you watch the movie are aplenty. But one important thread the film is getting at is that we are all on a journey of faith, with temptations and tribulations lining our pathways. Lucy had to resist the temptation to make herself more beautiful while Edmund had to fight the temptation of power and ambition that so frequently haunts him. Eustace typifies a person who lusts after wealth and fame.
On their journey to find out what happened to 7 Lords, whom young Caspian's wicked uncle got rid off by sending them to explore the unknown Eastern Seas beyond the Lone Islands, they met with all kinds of tests and temptations that the prince of darkness put in their way. However, they were told, "To defeat the darkness out there you must defeat the darkness in yourself." And how true that is in life. The greater darkness lies deep within each one of us. Many times the beastly nature in us comes to the fore when we least expect it. That's why the Scripture tells us that we need to put to death the deeds of the flesh (Col 3:5). When a quarrelsome spirit tries to ensnare us, we need to be reminded and apply Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath."
As they encountered each Lord, whether dead or alive, they had to reclaim their 7 swords, which symbolically represent the sins that so easily entangles us (Heb 12:1). It is only when these swords are laid down at Aslan's table (before God), that God empowers us to defeat the evil both within and without. Our submission and surrender to God enables Him to accomplish great things through us. On the other hand, if we cling on to pride and lusts within our hearts, we would not be effective in His kingdom. When we call on the name of the Lord, as Lucy did towards the end, He comes in His own special way to provide a way out in our dilemma and conflict. May you and I reach the shores of heaven triumphant having passed the tests of life.
One final note: My children enjoyed the show with the younger one being inspired to create some artwork accompanied by some literary devices for one of her projects in the future. Go and watch it with your family, if you've not done so.
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