The Golden Compass (DVD, 2008, Widescreen)

The movie may well have been the beginning of a kind of blockbuster set of movies using the themes and dramatic actions gleaned from the novels on which the script was based. Unfortunately, there is too much left up in the air concerning key characters and crucial information which prevents the kind of "closure" which allows the viewer to feel comfortable with conclusions by the end of the movie, on the one hand, and, on the other, looking forward to what comes next in the sequel. We know so very little about either side in the major conflict that being drawn into the overall dramatic action of what is supposed to be two or three movies in the series is close to impossible to anyone who has not read the novels themselves. Aside from this, as such, the movie is a treat to the eyes, has the potential to become a great series in time, and, again, aside from what's simply not there or not explained, is worth an evening's watching. With so much potential, it is disappointing that there are not greater effects produced withint the unit of this first movie to establish it as a truly memorable experience. It has left me with the idea that there was no unified vision in the director's conception and/or the general continuity of the movie as a whole. I have the feeling that there were one too many cuts on the editing board leaving holes here and there to allow for confusion in the viewer as to exactly what is going on and with whom. Still, it's all worth watching.