Better Than The Original

Rating: 8/10 (31 December 2002)

This was better than Sorcerer's/Philosopher's stone by far. Gone are the painful introductions of the first film, and now we just have the definately improved acting skills of the kids from one film to the next. Rupert, Daniel, and Emma are all great talents, and the Warners and Columbus are lucky to have them.
I do have several complaints...I don't think that Dobby looked good enough for the size of the budget that they had. Also, the creature at the end (I won't say what it is, in case you've never read the books or have yet to see the film) was a little disappointing, but scary enough to give the impression of impending doom. The giant spider (Aragog?, cant remember!) in the Forbidden Forest was awesome, though.
Not enough Robbie Coltrane! He was what really made the first movie, and despite the fact that he's not a major character in this film, his on screen time is welcomed and wonderful. The late Richard Harris delivers a wonderful performance as professor Albus Dumbledore, and his character will be missed in the remainder of the series.
~ J