The Golden Compass (2007)
Mild fantasy violence, some scenes may frighten young children
| Director: | Chris Weitz |
| Actors: | Dakota Blue Richards, Adam Godley, Paul Bettany, Eva Green, Clare Higgins, Nicole Kidman |
Lyra Belaqua (Dakota Blue Richards), living in Oxford's Jordan College, is a young girl living among scholars. Her world may seem diverse, from physical embodiments of souls that take the shape of an animal but similar to people around you to become friends and enemies. She is thrown into a perilous adventure when she overhears a conversation of an extraordinary microscopic particle, Dust, which is only found in the open Arctic of the Northern lands. This particle is said to unite different worlds, and is feared by many who want to destroy it forever. As Lyra is flung into the middle of this horrible struggle, she meets wondrous creatures both big and small, and villains who are not what they seem. Gobblers, that kidnap children, will turn out in the most unexpected places. And a magical compass of gold that will answer any question if one is skilled enough to read it. Lyra's adventure continues throughout these three books, and the first is about to be told.
| Status: | QuickPick |
|---|---|
| Run time: | 113mins |
| Origin: | UNITED KINGDOM |
| Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 |
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Member Reviews (126)
126 Member
Reviews
Linda
says
great movie, can be enjoyed by both adults and children , The Polar bears are incredible
Trev Dunshea
says
ONe of the few times I have enjoyed Nicole Kidman
. Good story...enchanting to watch...at 63 I still enjoy enjoyable stories that ar aimed at the kids.
snowgum
says
A great movie for the whole family. A bit too scary for younger viewers - but lots of good discussion points and great entertainment.
Valerie
says
Couldn't get into it. Nicole Kidman wasted her time with this one. None of it made any sense.
Adelaide
says
Good kids movie, really enjoyed it.
Ray
says
Great picture , now i have to wait for the second part.
Stimpy
says
Boring, found the story line awkward to follow, and smelt of Harry Potter!
Carolyn
says
This movie was like a more complex Narnia. I found the story very convoluted and needed to watch with subtitles. Absolutely not for my 10 year old daughter...maybe for older children with great attention spans. Well filmed - would have looked good on the big screen. There was supposed to be a sequel but this one didn't do well enough financially.
D.P.
says
This is a movie for children aged to 14. Adults are unlikely to find it interesting.
Rhonda H
says
A fantasy storyline for children with good and bad characters and reprobates transformed into heroes. We thoroughly enjoyed the whole movie in spite of the improbability of the plot and we both like Disney's Magician's Apprentice for the same reasons. We would watch it again
Malkav Family
says
Interesting setting and storyline. Excellent cast, with surprise cameos. Our kids loved it as much as we did.
judith
says
the golden compass was a great family movie my children loved it and so did my husband
lizziemun
says
Interesting concepts but ultimately silly and unfullfilling. Plot is weak and many of the story lines are unfinished begging the question surely they are not going to make us sit through a Part 2 to find out what happens? Don't bother.
Michelle T.
says
My 4 year old loved it. My 12 year old was less impressed because she felt it ended up in the air. I liked it but agree it was left waiting for a sequel.
June
says
Loved it a kinda movie for family shows would get part 2, to me it's like real, i know it sounds corny but we have a little devil in us and seeing the movie this way is similar.
David
says
Great kids movie and not bad for the adult kids as well. The plot is a bit far fetched but will appeal to those who like wizardry.
Viviane V.
says
Outstanding fantasy story. Beautifully made, and superbly acted
Karina S.
says
Great story.
Amie
says
I first watched this movie at the cinema with my mother and had never read the book, and still have not read it as yet. It was slow in parts and jumped around a lot. It also left alot of qustions at the end, making me question when is the sequel coming out and what will it be about. I will not watch this movie again but i will give the novel a chance. It was quite a let down, the girl who played Lyra was great, I dont like the way she spoke but that is how she wrote i suppose, and Nicole Kidman was far too rigid, she sutied the role, but I would have liked her to appear a bit more relaxed and comfortable in her own body.
Steve G.
says
The special effects are amazing. Great story that allows the imagination to run a little wild. The acting was fabulous Nicole Kidman really uses her character to best effect in front of the camera, she really shines in her role as does Dakota Blue Richards outstanding performance from the cast the camera work is special and the effects are fabulous this is a movie for everyone especially if you need some motivation to follow a task to its end
Linda S.
says
I absolutely loved this movie. Totally unexpected. Nicole Kidman was brilliant, as were all performances. Effects were excellent. Loved watching the animals with the children, changing etc. Cant wait for the sequel!!
Steven
says
Movie was Ok, Found took a long time to get moving and never really got to an intensity that engaged me to stay really glued to the set.
Story just OK and Nothing that really stood out with this film,
Leah S.
says
Having not read the books I had no idea what to expect. It does a good job of explaining quite a complicated story concept. I was quite surprised when the film ended with an obvious 'to be continued' finish.
Very interesting.
Judy
says
Didn' like this one much either. Not a Nicole Kidman fan and wasn't impressed with the treatment of kids or the violence at the end. Not really one for younger kids.
Lynda
says
A little bit scary for my lil one but the adults enjoyed the story.
Jenn
says
I liked this movie - don't think it was evil like some critics said. Think it is a major attack on the catholic church and other religious structures like that. A good enough movie, just didn't have an ending ... it was more a prelude for a sequel!
Jacquelin
says
Excellent movie , another keeper.
Michelle
says
It was boring
Cassandra B.
says
This movie is one of the best animation adventure stories i have ever seen. Not only it is mature enough for the adults but the kids will have fun watching it to being a little mysterious and magical and over coming dangers with courage where you never thought was possible. I have watched this movie a few times and love to watch it over again, definately a movie I would go and buy. Brillant.
John F.
says
Not a great fan of the fantasy genre (I found what I saw of the first Harry Potter boring), I was quite entertained by this one. Even Nicole Kidman turned in something resembling a pretty good performance.
John D.
says
I enjoyed it as far as it went. It stuck well to the book. Reading the story first would help viewers follow the story, and they should realise that the story doesn't end with this film. I await the sequels.
Ann
says
Just brilliant
Sanja
says
Wow Narnia meets Harry Potter - so true!!!!
Rob
says
Loved this movie. But my kids might be too young for it they are 4 and 6!!1
Christine
says
Definately recommend this one for the whole family. Nicole Kidman is terrific in this movie and really shows off her wonderful talent
Carol
says
great
Ben
says
A great movie for the kids and the adults.
Annie
says
Great casting but a disappointing movie compared to that of similar genre (ie. Stardust). The ending was weak.
Nicci B.
says
Not a bad movie , abit slow to get going which is difficult to keep kids interested long enough to keep watching
Katrina
says
I thought I would love this film, but I really did'nt.Can't quite put my finer on why.
Grant
says
This is one of the most under rated films of the last decade. Epic, sweeping and beautiful to look at, this probably isn't one for the really little ones - but is an excellent pick for imaginative young 'uns who love an adventure story. Sadly seems as if the trilogy may not be finished because this one didn't do the box office expected of it. Such a pity.
Janelle
says
don't normally watch this genre, fun while watching it, not a great ending...clearly setting up for next in series.
Karen
says
Very enjoyable adventure movie for adults and kids alike - it kept us all engrossed from start to finish. Good performances by Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman. Better than I thought it would be!
Leah
says
Great fantasy movie - a good one to watch with the family. Great graphics
Liz C.
says
I am such a fan of the Philip Pulman book Northern Lights from which this was adapted and was seriously dreading a movie interpretation. Thankfully it wasn't that bad. They've lost a lot of the detail which made the book so magical but it's a fair adaption. The armoured bear's were terrifyingly realised and Nicole Kidman for once is actually quite good. Kudo's go to Dakota Blue Richards though for making Lyra the feisty little scallywag she was on the page. I hope they go on and make the other two novel's as the ending, naturally left you wanting more.
Brad W.
says
Great story,cast and action. Slow to start. Very disappointed with the ending. Should come with a warning that a sequel is required. Need to wait till all the sequels are made and then watch them.
Jessica
says
There's a reason why this movie didn't do well in the box office. It's too flat/boring/whatever you want to call it. It has a stellar acting cast, beautiful graphics (and I'm picky - yes I'm talking to you SPIDER MAN!!! Anyway...).
I was a huge fan of Phillip Pullman as a prepubescent. Loved his books so I decided to give the movie a go.
I can't say I'm the best describer of *why* I find a movie boring but I can say I was never interested that much in the main character. Yes, she's lovely and plucky and that tomboy that we all know and love but she's just too good to be true on screen and just a bit boring to watch (don't mistake me I think the actress herself was lovely, but the character...hmm).
BUT this movie is completely worth seeing for a scene that reminds you that KIDMAN can act. She may look like an ice queen throughout the movie - thus cementing the idea of an emotionless, botox queen. But at one point you see all her emotion flood forth and you understand every action that she's given so far. Worth it if only for this, but it's only viewable near the end of the movie (feel free to tune out about an hour in).
Robert
says
Not as good as expected
Carl S.
says
A good movie overall, however it is a little muddy as to what age group it is aimed at. The kids found it hard going in places, and adults found it a bit thin in places - not as good as the Potters or LOTR trilogy.
Kirsty B.
says
Great movie with fantastic graphics and animation. my family and I really enjoyed this movie, would definatly recommend people see it!
Debra T.
says
I thought it was a good movie.
Barbara
says
This movie brought the kid out in me - I really enjoyed the fantasy. A good movie to watch with an older child as some scenes would be disturbing for a littlie.
Shona
says
Nicole Kidmans main role appears to be in design an attempt at uplifting the profile of the movie. This was not successful as the story lacked substance by the poor acting and poor use of antonyms in the script. Scene movements throughout the movie seemed disconnected furthered by an ending only described as a commercial effort to take us into series two.
Maariyah K.
says
A wannabe Narnia show. Kids loved it though
Erin S.
says
Great movie, not just for the kids! Parents will enjoy this one too in fact I can't wait for the second installment!
Maureen R.
says
A good story but unfortunately, I found the movie didn't hold my interest. I found it very disjointed. (And I love Harry Potter
Yvette B.
says
Don't like Kidman at the best of times.... and this was not one. Yawn!
Heather T.
says
For fans of Harry Potter and Narnia, this good for all ages - young and old
Monique N.
says
Generally well cast (Nicole Kidman was immaculate but wooden) with realistic special effects and animal animation this movie was quite good. Some fairly complex and disturbing themes were explored - exercise of free will, the power of authoritarian regimes, and involuntary modification of people. The director attempted to give this first of a trilogy some closure but I found the ending too abrupt to be satisfying. Looking forward to seeing how the 2nd and 3rd installments deliver.
Juliet P.
says
Loved the special effects. Loved the story and the amazing characters!! Will definately see this again!
Sarah B.
says
Great movie, I enjoyed it, loved the fairytale aspect of it but still had a great storyline, and for the record I don't like HP :)
Murray O.
says
one of those movies that keep hold of you all the way
great acting by the whole cast and brilliant fx
very enjoyable
Kim F.
says
Very convoluted and difficult for adults to follow at times, let alone children. Sets itself up for a Golden Compass Two but I wouldn't bother.
Shane B.
says
Mostly enjoyed movie. Disappointed when the ending was set up for making Golden Compass 2.
Kids loved it.
Marion W.
says
Worth Watching... great movie for all the family. The thought that went into the movie was amazing.
Earth.W
says
This movie is an exciting movie with good fighting scenes suitable for children and adults both. Can't wait for parts two and three should they make them.
Tanya M.
says
Great!! Visually stunning. Adult cast members get a large chunk of work (unlike H.Potter, where the fantastic adult characters and actors are shoved to one side). Kids and adults in this family thoroughly enjoyed this. There are no simple childish magic tricks in this film, it's a bit tougher world than Hogwarts. If you are looking for something like HP but with a bit more depth, you may enjoy this.
Theron M.
says
I went into this expecting absolutely nothing, and was pleasantly surprised. The ending screams sequel, but then it is based on the first book in a series.
Needed more Daniel Craig and less Nicole Kidman, although Dakota Richards does a great job as Lyra.
Annette L.
says
absolutely loved it, my 2
Jennie F.
says
loved it,especially the armoured polar bear. The ending was left open as if to suggest the possibility of sequel - hope it is not too long coming!
Sean D.
says
Terrible movie. Even the special effects for an animation were poor.
Jacqueline C.
says
I read the other day that they will not be making the sequals of this film and thats a real shame. I liked it and my Tweens loved it
Alison T.
says
An average fantasy movie. . . Not my cup of tea! :(
Frank L.
says
Good Movie but after the hype I was a little disappointed with the movie. Really worth a watch and the kids will love the story and movie. Go with an iopen mind and you'll enjoy the movie. I liked the acting ad the characters are interesting
Anne G.
says
Average to boring. I couldn't relate to the kid, although Nicole Kidman was slighty better than expected. Not holding my breath for the next installment
Natasha F.
says
Pretty good interpretation of the book though rearranged a bit enjoyed - visually and story wise ....
Surangi P.
says
Finally N. Kidmon has gone bad this time. It's a kids fantacy story with talking animals and souls. This one only the bigining of a series to come.
Cindy C.
says
Didn't think much of it the first time, less the second. My children got bored with it. Good special effects, not much for the story line, lousy ending and some of the acting is a bit lame. I was expecting a lot more considering all the hype.
Bill
says
Incredible special effects: the computer animations are seamless. All the characters are good even if some of the portrayals are becoming a little cliched. I wiould have given this 4 stars if it had not been for the ending - at least each of the Harry Potter movies are conmplete tales with a satisfying ending, but I thought it shameless to end a major movie with "to be continued".
Athanasia G.
says
This was a total bore i dont know what the catholic church was on about its not worth watching i dont even recommend the kids watch it its so borring and the ending was an anti climax leaving it open for maybe a second gloden compass. zzzzzzzzzzzzz
Michael B.
says
Aewsome and can't wait for the sequel
Julia B.
says
My family thoroughly enjoyed this movie and we look forward to the possible sequel
Wiggers
says
1 for effort, 0 for everything else. Rubbish, rubbish, and er, rubbish. I was hoping Jar Jar Binks would never appear in another film, but here he is in a polar bear suit.
Rubbish.
Janis F.
says
Great movie, special effects wonderful, has left me waiting for the next one which I am sure will come eventually.
Luisa E.
says
I knew nothing about this story but enjoyed it thoroughly.
John M.
says
Very impressed. CGI has come of age
Peter F.
says
An excellent movie for all ages..no sex or blood (lotsa fighting tho!)..and all those little Daemons everyone has is an enchanting idea..a movie for everyone..the critics need to mix with real movie-goers...a 10/10
Lucas
says
I enjoyed this film... RIGHT up until the point where I read the book series and realised just how much they had to simplify the story and shoehorn it into a good-versus-evil morality play. The film is very confusing (and confused) but there are some nice moment and scenes throughout. What could have been great is merely ok.
Andrew H.
says
As with a lot of the other reviews, I thought this was much better than Narnia. Quality special effects and a faithful adaptation of the book.
Helen P.
says
I have read the book and I just found this movie so boring. The storyline felt stilted, there was too much dreary dialogue and really, too much plot (and a new character introduced every few minutes) hindered the enjoyment of the film.
Neville C.
says
an entertaining fantasy
Carol M.
says
A beautifully put together movie and a must for fans of the Philip Pullman books. A great fantasy/adventure.
Kevin D.
says
Superior SFX make this film far, far better than Narnia...
Jessica T.
says
I had not read the novels but loved the movie, it one of the better fantasy movies to come out recently and is for both children and adults to enjoy.
Jessica R.
says
This was a lot better than I thought it would be, given the reviews. However I think it was a little too over-explanatory even for children. The diaologue overcompensated for what I don't believe is a very hard to follow storyline. However the little girl Lyra was fantastic, especially when compared to other child actors in movies like Narnia and Harry Potter. All in all it was an enjoyable enough movie.
Linda D.
says
Jane F.
says
A good movie with some interesting themes.
mu
says
Yet another'much ado about nothing'. Perhaps I'm getting too fussy in my old age but haven't seen a really good movie that grips my attention in ages.
Jan M.
says
Probably alright for older teens.Mediocre performances and storyline. However the young lead reminded me of a very young Cate Blanchett.
Danielle F.
says
Absolutely loved it! Haven't read the books but found it great. Will be buying this one for the DVD library. As usual the critics got it very wrong. Great effects, can't wait for the next one!
Nicole G.
says
We really enjoyed this movie. Waiting for more in the series
Nicole G.
says
We really enjoyed this movie. Waiting for more in the series
Kathy W.
says
Sheila B.
says
this was ok obviously going to do another movie as it finished funny but still worth a watch
Craig Hill
says
A story that's too complex for kids to follow and acting that's not really that great.
Matthew B.
says
This was visually stunning, with great performances by all, including the voice cast of the Daemons. I think it was let down by an editing team that seemed to hurry it along too much (scene where Lyra enteres Ice Bear hall - one minute she's just arrived and the next instant she's already entered the hall).
Brian S.
says
Sorry but I have not read the book and consequently found this a bizarre, a great cast (except Kidman - who is very wooden in this). It has a good story as you would expect from a distillation of three books but "Oh Dear" if you can't follow it because of that it probably ain't worth it.
Julie B.
says
Excellent movie, the whole family enjoyed this one.
Carolyn S.
says
I saw this one at the cinema and thought this was a great movie!
can't wait for the next installment!
Elizabeth M.
says
Stuart H.
says
Enjoyable fantasy type movie with some excellent graphics and a solid cast
Tab H.
says
Fantastic !
Enjoyed it from beginning to end.
Great for adults and children.
Barbara M.
says
Most members have said all that can be said, I am waiting in anticipation for the next installment. Definitely one I would watch again.
Trent S.
says
It's a mess. Between exposition on talking bears, flying witches and everything else, there's just no room left for entertainment.
Paul G.
says
Better than I was expecting, very good cast that just shone, Am eagerly waiting for the following movies to find out the rest of the story. Very Good.
Marg O.
says
I quite enjoyed this. Loved the daemons.
Paul D.
says
brilliant, the kids loved it
Steve R.
says
Okto F.
says
Worth Watching - I have heard a lot bad review about this movie. I think because of that I don't have high hopes so it turn out not bad.
Ian G.
says
This is a great family movie. If you like the old one you would love this
David C.
says
was ok but had a bad ending (i'v read the book 3 times)
rogers supposd to die and she's meant to go into the new world
Keng Y.
says
started out good but not so good compare to other similar films.
Siu Ho H.
says
A movie with interesting plot that reveals itself bit by bit to keep you watching.
Having seen the movie, I'm now reading the trilogy and findng the movie has really represented the book well. look forward to see the continuation of the story on screen!
Sumera
says
I quite liked this movie. It held my interest throughout.
Jeanette C.
says
If you Love Harry Potter Then this is for YOU..
You will love it..a fantastic film great performaces by all.Amazing Animation.
I think it is a cross between Naria and Harry but just wonderful
beren
says
I have no idea what movie the critics have been watching because this movie is really very good.
As an avid reader of the trilogy I was apprehensive but pleasantly surprised at the movie adaptation. I also saw this movie with people who had not read the book and all have returned to see it again.
I think this is another case of the critics getting it wrong.
Don't listen to the reviews! If you like action,adventure, mystery and some interesting ideas that make you think, then see this movie and make up your own mind!