Good sequel, overlong but entertaining

Rating: Null/10 (19 February 2009)

This film picks up from where the first one ended and remains generally entertaining. Directed again by Chris Columbus, this time, a few more risks are taken, and Hogwarts appears more magical and menacing this time round. The VFX are good as (MINOR SPOILERS) Harry escapes from terrifying spiders, and battles a ferocious Basilisk. Still, the film is way too long and the mid-section sags. Some scenes could have been cut. The acting is decent with the adult cast doing much better than the kids. Alan Rickman remains the pick of the lot while Kenneth Branagh looks like he's having a lot of fun. Watchable.
Overall 7/10