Lately, it seems as though a number of children’s-books-turned-movies have earned the criticism of right-wing, conservative American film audiences. First, a boy wizard by the name of Harry Potter was condemned when he graced screens in an epic battle to fight evil and save his world from the ghastly Lord Voldemort. Now, a young girl name Lyra Belacqua faces similar scrutiny as she to graces movie screens, armed only with an Alethiometer and a few loyal friends, in a quest to save her own world from the evil Magisterium, an organization that strives to keep people ignorant and compliant. “The Golden Compass,” a film adapted from Philip Pullman’s novel of the same name, has been condemned for its subject matter and ingrained atheistic notions. Regardless, it is a delightful film that mixes whimsical storytelling and engaging characters with excellent special effects, well-crafted scenery, and outstanding performances from its cast.

Young Lyra Belacqua exists in a world quite different from our own. It is a world in which people’s souls live outside their bodies and take the form of animals, called daemons. These daemons experience life in the same manner as their owners, often acting as a conscience. In this world, a person without a daemon is essentially a person without a soul. Also in this world exists an organization called the Magisterium. The Magisterium is the primary governing body of this world, but it is corrupt and wishes to keep people intellectually subservient, silencing any voice or belief that stands in opposition of the doctrines upheld by the Magisterium. Challenging the Magisterium is Lord Asriel, Lyra’s uncle, and a handful of academics. This challenge is not taken lightly, however, as the Magisterium happily disposes of anyone who steps in their way.

Lyra’s world is one in which witches rule the skies, Ice Bears rule the north, and children mysteriously go missing at the hands of an organization called only “the gobblers.” Lyra is given an Alethiometer, also called a Golden Compass, the last one in existence. The Golden Compass tells the truth, but can only be read by very few people and Lyra happens to have the gift. When her friend Roger is kidnapped by the Gobblers and Lyra herself falls prey to the devious Mrs. Coulter, it is up to Lyra to figure out the truth of what’s happening in her world and hopefully right things before it is too late.

“The Golden Compass” may be a children’s movie, but it is appealing to both child and adult audiences alike. The script is fast paced and engaging, covering a lot of information without ever feeling jumbled or rushed. The acting is wonderful; even the child actors are able to seem precocious and interesting without becoming annoying. The scenery and special effects are top notch. Overall, this is an epic movie that is worth watching whether you are a child or simply enjoy pretending to be a child. “The Golden Compass” is a film not to be missed.