This review at wired.com — The Golden Compass Gets Hopelessly Lost — pretty much nails the way I felt after seeing The Golden Compass. I have not read the book(s) nor was I familiar with the story before seeing the film, and I was a bit lost at times. The ending is totally lame. Some of the effects seemed indulgent. We could have done with a little less of the polar bear. And most disappointingly, Daniel Craig was barely to be seen. I would estimate he had a scant 10 minutes of screen time. Sigh.
I am, however, intrigued enough to possibly read the book. This story, plus all the character development, plus the original anti-religion message, plus the original tragic ending. That sounds much more entertaining and provocative than this limp film.
[Note: The cool alethiometer icon is by Dave Brasgalla and is currently a free download at The Icon Factory.]
I’ve read the book and was so looking forward to the movie. I was considerably disappointed. (very very much so)
However, Nicole Kidman was perfect and was likely the sole character that I felt remained true to the books. (that is – as much as the mangled script allowed)
I haven’t seen the movie – but my sister gave me the book and I deep sixed it after 56 pages. Its usual for the movie to be even worse – so it makes sense that it sucks. Maybe its too much fantasy for a hard sci-fi person.