Excellent! (spoilers)

Rating: 8/10 (16 November 2002)

Ahhh! The latest installment in Harry Potter films, and what seems to be J.K. Rowling's personal birthday gift to me. :-D I just returned from seeing this movie, and let me tell you, it is wonderful. Though some things were changed from the book, (minor details, really, most likely changed to improve pacing) and the whomping willow didn't really resemble a willow tree at all, the film was remarkable.
The special effects were admirable, as well as the casting. Aragog and the basilisk were wonderfully rendered and truly terrifying, while Kenneth Branagh, Christian Coulson, Jason Isaacs, and Shirley Henderson were all magnificent in their roles. All in all, this is a great film that gives quality entertainment, as well as some good life lessons. I recommend it highly to anyone.