The Book  “The Golden Compass” now a  Major Motion Picture.

The Golden Compass is scheduled for release on the big screen December 7, 2007.  The irony of that date does not escape me.

Is it any wonder that Fantasy Fiction of  epic proportions has taken off on the big screen like wild fire when our world today is engaged in conflict and destruction on a daily basis. 

Is it any wonder that we look for something, anything, to free us from this world and it’s limitations.  Imagination is where it all begins, stories that compell us to face our fears and to grab on to something so much more exciting. 

Imagination is beautiful and a gift to be appreciated. My question is: What does a Christian Parent do about the subtle messages that are protrayed within the imagination of this story line?   A message that tears at the very lining of our soul.  Truth and fiction can interact well together, it’s when truth is distorted and fiction becomes something sinister and evil……thats when we need to take notice. 

 It is no secret that Phillip Pullman the author of this Trilogy is an Atheist.  The Golden Compass is the first book of three that protrays anti-religious themes. 

Take Lyra’s World, the little girl in the movie, a person’s soul lives on the outside of their body in the form of a daemon.  The writer’s word for a talking animal spirit that accompanies children through life.  No doubt the bond is extremely powerful.  The story continues with Lyra joining people who are trying to kill God and the Christian Faith, and apparently they succeed.  Of course this plot isn’t exactly revealed in the ”first” movie.

Children have vivid imaginations, and  imagination is an awesome thing.  When I see a child hugging their stuff bear I can’t help but smile.  When I see children play with their animal friends I am warmed by their creative play and loving sentiments.  

A child will grasp the concept of an animal as their “best” friend when watching this movie, and now they will be introduced to a new word, “daemon” a talking animal spirit guide.  Don’t laugh, I’ve actually read a post where the writer believes her daemon is a mouse. It’s the plot that is more disturbing, the thought of killing God and the Christian Faith.  How can we applaud that at the end of the show.

How is a parent suppose to explain all this to a child?  And if nothing is said, what will their imagination lead them to believe?  Have you ask yourself,  how dangerous can this movie  be if not properly explained?

Fox News has reported the controversy, along with ABC and ChristianityToday.

It’s definitely worth looking into before you take your children to see it.  It’s worth discussing it with others.  There are sure to be several opinions, for and against.

What do you think?