The Golden Compass is a Yuletide blockbuster

The Golden Compass

Director: Chris Weitz

Cast: Daniel Craig, Nicole Kidman, Dakota Blue Richards, Eva Green

Cert: 12

The Yuletide blockbuster for the Potter-Narnia fans, a dazzling tale of action based on the controversial His Dark Materials books by Philip Pullman ... though the film's troubled past might work against it being the smash hit everyone seems to be predicting: Weitz pulled out of directing at one stage, fearing he wasn't up to the task of helming such a big-budget film.

There is also the controversy over the suggested anti-religion slant to the books - played down in the film - that will not sit well with dedicated fans of Pullman.

Still, there's plenty to keep audiences engrossed.

Star Rating: 3/5