8 on a scale of 10

Rating: 8/10 (3 December 2002)

I gave the first Harry Potter movie a 9 and I honestly cannot determine there to be one iota difference in the entertainment or quality value of the second one from the first. And, I have a little problem with dropping a rating purely based on the fact that it is the second time around, but I did. The first movie was a whole new world that I had never seen or heard of. The second movie wasn't. That isn't the movie's fault. And, if the first movie I had seen was the second one, I would likely have given it a 9 too. But, it wasn't.
I really have no criticisms of Chamber of Secrets. Once again, I was amazed how well it kept my attention for being as long as it was. It is a fascinating world. But, the only reason I didn't rate the first one a 10 is because it isn't a world that I would naturally be drawn into. As good as it is, it isn't necessarily my first choice for a genre. A kid in a magical world only rates so high.
But, if you liked the first one, it would be impossible not to like this one. They are very, very similar - with just a different story line. But, even then, the good guys are the same good guys and bad guys are the same bad guys.
It was poignant to see Richard Harris in his last role. I will miss him. And, did anyone else notice the rock face in the Chamber looked an awful lot like Hulk Hogan. Hum.