Prop Culture Season 1 Episode 6 The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
- May 1, 2020
Prop Culture season 1 episode 6 titled "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe" explores the making of the classic 2005 film adaptation of C.S. Lewis's beloved novel. The host, film historian Dan Lanigan, journeys behind the scenes to track down the original props and costumes from the movie, meeting with the filmmakers, actors, and collectors who have preserved these cherished elements of movie history.
Lanigan begins by taking a look at the wardrobe from the title and its significance to the film. He sets out to discover the location where the wardrobe was built and the craftspeople who put it together. Along the way, he picks up insights into the movie's production design, costume department, and the magical world of Narnia.
The episode is full of great anecdotes about the creative process that went into the making of the movie. Lanigan talks with actor Tilda Swinton, who played Jadis, the White Witch, and gets her take on the character and her motivations. He also interviews production designer Roger Ford about creating the fantastical creatures that inhabit the world of Narnia, including Aslan, the great lion, and the fauns.
Another highlight of the episode is Lanigan's visit to the Walt Disney Archives, where he chats with archivist and historian Kevin Kern about the history of the studio's involvement with Lewis's work, dating back to the 1940s. Lanigan also examines some of the original props from the film, including the horn that Susan blows in the battle scene and the dagger that Peter wields in his duel with the White Witch.
Overall, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe" is an entertaining and informative look at one of the most beloved fantasy films of recent years. With behind-the-scenes access to the people and props that made the movie such a success, Dan Lanigan takes us on a journey through the magical world of Narnia, providing insights into the creative process and paying tribute to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in bringing this classic story to life.