June 5, 2025

Narnia 4: The Silver Chair (2025) – Official Review

“In the shadows of Narnia’s deepest realms, the Silver Chair holds the power to either liberate or imprison forever.”

The Chronicles of Narnia returns with Narnia 4: The Silver Chair, bringing us back to the magical world of Narnia with a new, gripping adventure filled with danger, courage, and the hope for redemption. Directed by Joe Johnston, this latest chapter takes us to the heart of an ancient mystery, promising a journey of epic proportions that will captivate both longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike. With breathtaking visuals, intricate storytelling, and deeply emotional stakes, The Silver Chair is an unforgettable addition to the Narnian saga.

Plot Summary

Set many years after the events of The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Narnia 4: The Silver Chair follows Eustace Scrubb (played by Will Poulter) and Jill Pole (played by Sophie Turner) as they are transported once again to Narnia. This time, their mission is urgent and perilous: they must find Prince Rilian, the son of King Caspian, who has been lost for ten years under mysterious circumstances.

Rilian’s disappearance is linked to a powerful enchantress who has captured his mind and spirit, imprisoning him in a silver chair. Eustace and Jill, given the task by Aslan, embark on a dangerous journey through dark forests, labyrinths, and a twisted Underworld, all while uncovering secrets that will not only test their courage but also the strength of their friendship.

In a race against time, they must find Prince Rilian before the enchantress’s power fully consumes him, all while discovering more about themselves and their role in the battle for Narnia’s freedom.

Artistic Analysis

From a visual standpoint, The Silver Chair is an absolute masterpiece. The film expertly combines the familiar beauty of Narnia with a darker, more mysterious tone as the adventure moves deeper into the lands of the Underworld. The landscapes are stunning—lush green forests, ominous mountain ranges, and the hauntingly eerie Underworld that seems to exist outside of time itself. The CGI is top-notch, breathing life into both the mythical creatures that populate Narnia and the dangerous, maze-like passages of the Underworld.

The design of the silver chair, central to the plot, is both symbolic and terrifying. Its sleek, metallic appearance contrasts sharply with the crumbling, ancient setting of the Underworld, representing both hope and despair. The subtle use of lighting and shadows further intensifies the atmosphere, creating a sense of unease and urgency as Eustace and Jill venture closer to their goal.

Performances

Will Poulter’s return as Eustace Scrubb is one of the standout performances of the film. Eustace has come a long way since his earlier, more irritating appearances in the series. Here, Poulter masterfully portrays a more mature and self-aware character. His internal conflict—balancing his lingering arrogance with newfound responsibility—adds layers to a character that audiences can’t help but root for. His chemistry with Sophie Turner, who plays Jill Pole, is equally compelling. Turner delivers a strong performance, portraying Jill as both determined and vulnerable. Together, they form an unlikely yet powerful partnership, each pushing the other to grow and rise to the challenges that lie ahead.

James McAvoy shines as Prince Rilian, a character torn between his past life and the overwhelming pull of the enchantress’s influence. His portrayal is haunting and deeply emotional, capturing the prince’s internal struggle as he navigates the grip of the enchantment. His performance adds gravitas to the film, making the stakes personal and resonant.

The return of Ben Barnes as King Caspian brings a familiar sense of regal command to the film, though his role is more subdued in this chapter. Tilda Swinton also makes a brief but powerful appearance as the White Witch, further connecting The Silver Chair to the overarching Narnian mythology.

Emotional Impact

At its core, The Silver Chair is about the battle between light and dark, both externally and internally. The film weaves themes of redemption, friendship, and overcoming personal demons throughout its narrative. Eustace’s growth into a true hero is particularly moving, as he faces the consequences of his past actions and learns the value of selflessness.

Jill’s journey is equally poignant, as she learns to trust her own instincts and overcome her fears. Their friendship, which develops over the course of the film, becomes a powerful symbol of unity and hope. The emotional weight of the film is evident in the way it handles moments of sacrifice and courage, with each character forced to confront their weaknesses before they can achieve victory.

The film’s climactic moments are both thrilling and heart-wrenching, as the characters are pushed to their limits. The tension reaches a boiling point as they face the enchantress and her minions, culminating in a final battle that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. But even amid the chaos, the film’s heart remains firmly rooted in its exploration of human connection and the price of freedom.

Tone and Pacing

The tone of The Silver Chair is darker and more mature compared to its predecessors. As the characters venture into the Underworld and face increasingly dangerous foes, the film adopts a more somber, serious tone. This shift in atmosphere adds to the sense of urgency and the stakes of the journey. However, moments of levity and camaraderie between Eustace and Jill provide much-needed relief and balance, ensuring the film never becomes too grim.

The pacing is tight, with each scene propelling the story forward. The action sequences are exhilarating, particularly when the characters find themselves in perilous situations. But it is the slower, more reflective moments that resonate the most—whether it’s the quiet realization of their personal growth or the deep emotional revelations that unfold as they approach their final goal.

Conclusion

Narnia 4: The Silver Chair is a triumph—an emotionally charged, visually stunning continuation of the Chronicles of Narnia series. The film successfully combines thrilling adventure with a deeply personal story of growth and redemption. With standout performances from Will Poulter, Sophie Turner, and James McAvoy, the film not only expands the Narnian universe but also deepens the emotional stakes, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting what comes next.

This installment reinvigorates the series with its fresh perspective, while staying true to the themes that made Narnia beloved by fans: friendship, courage, and the unyielding belief that good can triumph over evil. The Silver Chair is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Narnia, filled with magic, mystery, and a sense of wonder that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.