The Chronicles of Narnia premieres in

london.

Beijing, Dec. 8(Xinhuanet)-- Disney's first Narnia film opened in London on Thursday, attracting the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

The British Royals were also joined by stars Tilda Swinton and James at the Royal Albert Hall.

"The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe," the first of the Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis' made to the big screen, is expected to be one of the hottest box office battles in years as the studio takes on the hugely successful Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings.

With an estimated production and marketing budget of$250 million(144 million pounds), the first Narnia film is a must-win movie for the loss-making Disney Studios, and paves the way for up to six more films based on C.S. Lewis' seven-book series.

Much media attention has been paid to the Christian message in the Narnia series, and how Disney and its partner in the film, Walden Media, targeted church groups during the buildup.

New Zealand director Andrew Adamson sought to play down the spiritual aspects of the film.

"I don't think it's going to make a difference to audience members," he told reporters before the premiere.

"I think some people will find that spiritual message, others won't. I don't think it matters."

Los Angeles Times reviewer Carina Chocano described the film as"real by the logic of childhood", and noted that the book's much-discussed Christian themes do not overwhelm the simple tale of four children's adventures in Narnia. Enditem

(Agencies)