This is one of this year’s most anticipated films and I was prepared to be dazzled and mesmerized by it. The reality did not quite match my great expectations, even though I did make an allowance for the fact that I was an adult going to see a film for children.

It is a spectacular film. An alternative reality is brought to life with impeccable CGI and a fine eye for detail. From the bustling Dickensian style of London and Oxford to the desolate and fantastical charm of the kingdoms of the frozen north; the sweeping panoramas of these landscapes alone are worth a visit to the big screen.

However, although it certainly looks good, there was little suspense in the film. Nicole Kidman (Mrs Coulter) was about as animated as a wooden puppet and it was the unpretentious talent of Dakota Blue Richards as Lyra Belacqua, who kept the film going.

She is a spirited and delightful Lyra, and I am not just saying that because she is a young Brightonian. A host of well known actors or their voices feature in this film, although I cannot say their performances were Oscar winners. However, Sam Elliott, is as quirky as ever and does a reasonable job of the American Aeronaught Lee Scoresby.

It could be the script. Perhaps 113 minutes is simply too short to encompass the range and intricacies of the book. It is not a bad film, but its lack of dramatic tension was what really disappointed me. Even the fight scene between the two warrior ice bears Iorek Byrnison (Ian McKellan’s voice) and Ragnar Sturlusson (Ian McShane’s voice) is a let-down and I missed the violent and shocking finale because I blinked and it was all over.

Nevetheless, I am anxious to hear the opinion of my two young nieces, Aimee and Zoe, who have yet to see the film because perhaps as an adult I am unable to fully appreciate the wonder and magic of the story. I would also be interested to hear from others who have read the books how they would rate the film.