[His Dark Materials Part 1]: The Golden Compass

[BiscLimpkit]

I was wondering why they renamed the title for the film, but it's because in the US, the novel is called "The Golden Compass" (and not the original title of "Northern Lights").

It's like the whole Harry Potter and the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone all over again except this time, the entire world has to cope with the US title change.

Anyway, I've just finish reading the first book. It's a good read, set in an alternate universe. It ends unfinished though, so I'm going to start on the next book shortly.

However... the books critisize God and the church but word on the street is that New Line are going to remove such references in order to make the films more commercially viable.

I thought they were going to do an LOTR (i.e film all three films back-to-back) but the next film (The Subtle Knife) isn't due until 2009.

[degeneration]

From what I gather, in the films the church and God have been replaced by big corporations and businesses, or something like that. I think this is a shame, as once you read the next two books, i htink you'll agree that removing God et al is quite likely to change the story quite considerably.

Still looking forward to this so much! The first book was awesome. The other 2 are very good, but I don't think they are quite as good as Northern Lights.

[Shingster]

However... the books critisize God and the church but word on the street is that New Line are going to remove such references in order to make the films more commercially viable.

I'm waiting for the day they make a Berserk film, i'd love to see how the Christian right in america would react to that!

[grim_tales]

The title change threw me as well - The Golden Compass.. eh?

[BiscLimpkit]

The Golden Compass 2.75/5

Fun but so so so disappointing. It's difficult to give an unbiased opinion of the film but it's no where near as epic or fulfilling as it should have been. Aside from rushing key scenes, the last three chapters are completely missing! Even at 2hrs, it feels like a quick and easily forgettable film.

[bradavon]

After seeing the trailer I thought "Harry Potter and Kids Movie" then I thought "No thanks".

I cannot stand all these Yank retitles though. It only ever happens in America. What exactly is confusing about "Northern Lights"? or Philosopher's Stone for that matter? I doubt in reality most American's who know what a Sorcerer is don't know what a Philosopher is.