As the Pevensies wander a land that they barely recognize as Narnia, Caspian is taken in and aided by several Narnian freedom fighters, including a talking badger, a fierce talking mouse named Reepicheep (Eddie Izzard), and grumpy but devoted dwarves Nikabrik (Warwick Davis, Willow) and Trumpkin (Peter Dinklage, Elf). Soon, the Pevensie children connect with Caspian and his group and they work together to rouse those Narnians who have been hidden for so many years.
Unfortunately, Aslan (Liam Neeson) has been MIA since the childrens' return to Narnia, although Lucy (Georgie Henley) is certain she has seen him. But as usual, Susan (Anna Popplewell), Peter (William Moseley) and Edmund (Skandar Keynes) don't believe her and they find themselves in more trouble than they bargained for. When they mount an attack on King Miraz's castle, they find themselves outnumbered and slaughtered and even consider bringing back the White Witch (Tilda Swinson) for help. However, once Aslan does re-emerge from hiding and joins the fight, the war culminates in an amazing and beautiful battle.
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian comes chock full of special features, including the standards, like commentary and deleted scenes, but also very deep featurettes on everything from the making of the sets, bringing the characters to life, creating the epic battles, and especially featurettes on Nikabrik and Trumpkin and the actors who play them. These guys are great - Peter Dinklage is always a treat and seeing Warwick Davis (Willooooow!) again after all these years was terrific.
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian somehow manages to be a movie about epic battles, treachery and war, and yet still maintains a family-friendly tone. The Blu-ray version looks simply magnificent in high-def and battle scenes and those with magical creatures such as the spirit made from flower petals are breathtaking. I will say that I was a good way into the movie before the surround sound made a difference and was actually wondering aloud why I hadn't been impressed yet when a sound effect caused my head to snap around in surprise. High-def is certainly the way to go if you have the setup.
With the insane number of special features, plus the bonus digital copy for your computer or on-the-go, it's hard to argue with a purchase of The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. You'll get your money's worth and the kids will get plenty of goodness for hours of clean, family entertainment.
