The End Begins

Rating: Null/10 (23 July 2014)

Based on the final novel of the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows marks the end of an era that saw an entire generation grow up with this deeply fascinating world of magic. Presented in 2 parts, it is the finale of what eventually became a worldwide phenomenon during the first decade of the 21st century, both in the world of books & cinema.
Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 finds the trio of Harry, Ron & Hermione embarking on a new journey to finish Dumbledore's work by finding & destroying the remaining horcruxes of Lord Voldemort. And in their grim adventure where danger awaits at every corner, they come to learn about the Deathly Hallows while The Dark Lord prepares to take over the Wizarding World.
The direction by David Yates is pretty good as the film adapts the novel very faithfully this time & in much greater detail. But it's also slowed down by most of the action being moved on to the final chapter. The technical aspects continue to impress once again as it properly balances its story while Alexandre Desplat's score brings a flavour of its own into the film although it remains within the realms of this magical world.
Coming to the performances, the focus is finally on the three primary leads of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint & Emma Watson and each one of them chips in with a performance that's highly improved compared to its predecessors. Yet, in my opinion, it's Helena Bonham Carter in her sinister portrayal of Bellatrix Lestrange who enters the film during its final moments & still ends up stealing the show with her terrific performance.
On an overall scale, Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 is incredibly faithful to its source material, has moments of action in bits n pieces but the focus this time is mainly on the drama than visuals and it also features an amazing work of animation in one scene that's easily my favourite moment. It might turn out to be boring for some but for me it lays down the perfect groundwork for the next chapter. Certainly not the best of the series but definitely not the worst either.