The Golden Compass
Opens: Dec. 7.
Star power: Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig.
Synopsis: The first in a trilogy of films based on His Dark Materials, Philip Pullman’s popular fantasy series, The Golden Compass is the story of young Lyra (played by newcomer Dakota Blue Richards). After her uncle (Craig) discovers a mysterious substance, Lyra gets her hands on the Alethiometer (which provides the answer to any question) and becomes the centre of a globe-trotting adventure.
Oscar odds: Slim—but as Lord of the Rings trilogy proved for the fantasy genre, not nil.