'Golden Compass' sequel in doubt

Plans for a sequel to fantasy film 'The Golden Compass' have reportedly been axed following a series of protests from the Catholic Church.

Scholars slammed the children's movie last year for being anti-God and anti-religion - and even officials at The Vatican stepped in to criticise the film, which stars Daniel Craig and Nicole Kidman.

Now author Philip Pullman, who wrote the 'His Dark Materials' trilogy the film was based on, has confirmed he has not been contacted over a follow-up, adding to industry speculation a second instalment will not be made.

"When the first film was in production, I was talking to the studio and to (writer/director) Chris Weitz and producers quite frequently," he said. "I'm sure I would be now if the sequel was in production."

He admits however that he still has high hopes for another film: "I know everyone would like to see a sequel and I know I'd like to see it."

Film studio New Line Cinema is refusing to discuss the future of the trilogy.