Concerning the overhyped protest of the anti-religious theme of the book, this reviewer remains perplexed at what all the fuss is about. We all know that the Magisterium represents the church—or to be more specific Pullman’s perception of the church. Pullman has not been shy about his disdain of organized religion and God in general. We also know that this disdain becomes more evident in the second and third installments of the trilogy. However, based on what is represented in this particular film (I have not read the books), it is hardly an offensive characterization. Why not? Because his skewed view of the church is nothing at all what the true church is about. In fact, as believers we should side with Pullman on his disdain for the type of religion and organization that the Magisterium portrays in The Golden Compass.

Granted, Pullman’s perception is based on biases and experiences he has had. He is not alone, however, as there are many who look ill upon religion in general and Christianity in particular based on bad experiences. We should be just as passionate about our disdain for the false religiosity and pious arrogance represented by the Magisterium that has pushed so many away from the church.

The only difference is that while Pullman and others may imagine a world without God, there are many more who imagine a world with a better representation of true religion: one that does not oppress free-thinking, intelligence, or individualism. Personally, if the church was at all like the Magisterium I would not want to be a part of it. If Jesus’ condemnation of the Pharisees and the so-called “religious leaders” of his day is any indication, I have a feeling that Jesus wouldn’t want to be a part of it either.