Perfectly captures the essence of the book, yet transcends above it through its cinematic flair

Rating: 9/10 (18 November 2010)

There may be some slight spoilers ahead
Even though most may come away from the film feeling almost inevitably let down, due to the fact that it is essentially half of a film, to me this film is the most accurate recreation of the novel out of them all and finally manages to preserve the soul of JK Rowling's writing, yet still allowing for an artistic flair, through the innovative sequences such as the unique animation of the Tales of Beedle the Bard, and the consistently stunning cinematography.
The acting by the trio is finally perfect and more importantly consistent, as they truly embody their individual characters and really become Harry, Ron and Hermione. Emma and Rupert are the clear standouts, Emma's torture scene and opening scene at her parents are truly chilling, whilst Rupert's angry outburst and departure, as well as his speech about the light on his return were both brilliantly acted.
The action sequences are also stunning and perfectly recreate the scenes from the books exactly as I imagined. The Seven Potters, while shorter than I would have liked, had the awe-inspiring shot of the Death Eaters attacking the seven pairs in the clouds, making up for the slightly missed opportunity to show what happened to the individual pairs rather than just following Harry as it was in the book. The Ministry scene was equally as impressive and well done, perfectly representing the book whilst becoming something more.
The attention to detail throughout the film is really superb and unlike Philosophers Stone and Chamber of Secrets, the inclusion of practically all scenes from the books never feels like a straightforward word by word recreation with no soul, as the many artistic changes to the story and the brilliant cinematography, beautiful score and pitch-perfect acting, allow this film to transcend above the other Potter's whilst still remaining true to the source.
9/10 from me