A Magical Movie

Rating: Null/10 (1 December 2003)

Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone explained the difference between the magical world of wizards and the non-magical world of muggles. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets clearly spells out the racial lines between purebloods and mudbloods, witches or wizards with muggle ancestors, and has a darker theme that emphasizes the evils of racism. In this installment Harry (played by Daniel Radcliffe), Ron (played by Rupert Grint), and Hermione (played by Emma Watson) must fight to stop the genocide of the mudbloods. In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Ron, accompanied by two of his brothers, free Harry from his aunt and uncle's home where he is being held. Soon after the students return to Hogwarts something begins attacking mudbloods and Harry begins hearing voices. Harry, Ron, and Hermione then set into motion a plan to find the Chamber of Secrets and try to destroy the monster before any mudbloods are injured. There are a number of similarities between the Chamber of Secrets and Lord of the Rings the Two Towers. The most notable similarity is the underlying theme of racism. Other similarities include the fight between good and evil and the use of magic. In the Lord of the Rings each of the races believes its race to be superior and orc race trying to eradicate all of the other races. Chris Columbus directed both Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and the first installment Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone. Columbus really sets the stage with the appropriate use of high contrast, low key, and three-point lighting. Light and dark have very symbolic meaning and without correct use the movie would have lost much of its ambiance. It is very important in today's society that children learn about racism and the effects it has on others. While education at home and at school are extremely effective tools in eradicating racism we should grasp all opportunities to teach this lesson. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is able to connect with children and addresses this issue without pressure.