First Hit: Visually it was interesting and engaging but the story and execution lacked either depth or a missing component.
Dakota Blue Richards did an amazing job of being a young girl with wisdom. She combined the two elements to create a believable character in a somewhat unbelievable film.
I have read a little of the internet discussion about the religious undertones of this film and Christianity and although I understand their view, if the Catholics see a false representation of their beliefs they need to let it go. If they are uncomfortable with what they see then it might be striking some truth.
I also thought the idea of our soul being represented by a “demon” animal who traveled outside our body was wonderful. I especially liked that, as a child, they change until our soul settles down with age.
The story is about a young woman setting out to discover the north country, understand more about “dust” (spirit and life source), and to rescue all the young children who have been kidnapped by a group trying to separate children from their demons and still keep the kids alive.
In this journey she receives the only remaining magic compass (alethiometer) which tells the truth (past and future). The compass is the object being sought by Mrs. Coulter (Nicole Kidman), who is a cold calculating woman and in service to Magisterium (The quasi religious government).
Lyra is befriended by a polar bear (Iorek) who is down on his luck and their friendship propels him and her to rescue the kids while Iorek is able redeem his honor by becoming King of his people (other bears).
Overall: The visuals are great; some of the acting is excellent and it is a pleasing film to watch with the requisite positive ending; but this film needed a demon (a soul).