The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

I enjoyed "Prince Caspian" more than "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" The first movie suffered from too much arbitrary magic-- magic and the kids are in trouble, magic and the kids are out of trouble, magic and the kids are in trouble again. Prince Caspian avoids this. The characters appear to have some control over their lives and are not always the victims of arbitrary magic.

Of course the special effects are great.

Maybe I'm just too grown up. Too aware of the themes and hidden subtext. That Aslan is Jesus. That bad things will happen if you walk away from Aslan. You plans will fail if Aslan is not around. That a happy ending will happen for no better reason than Aslan has arrived.

That's my gripe with an otherwise fine movie. Aslan shows up because he has to, and not because the kids deserve it.

Yes, the allegory is not lost on me. However, this is a Hollywood movie. It has not affected my views on Christianity and redemption. Is there anyone whose views would change because of this movie?

The movie has a few stylistic quirks. Many people have to die, yet this is ultimately a family film. A great many soldiers suddenly fall over when they are touched by a sword or knife. This is a bit funny after a while. To be honest, I am happy the film approaches death this way. I don't enjoy gore.

ABBA

I saw Mama Mia last night. and now I'm listenting to ABBA Gold.

Abba. Well... well, what can I say about Abba that hasn't been said hundreds of times before. Just a few questions.

Did Abba invent elevator music? Their songs are pure pop happiness, but musically sound so thin.

And the movie? It's an excuse to play Abba songs. Without the music, it's a high school play with a budget.