Well-crafted adaptation!

Rating: 8/10 (20 November 2010)

As a fan of the books, first and foremost, I've been displeased with the film series of Harry Potter since "Prisoner." However, I believe David Yates and, more importantly, Steve Kloves have redeemed themselves on this one.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part I) follows the book closely. It is very well-crafted. It omits very little, and changes almost nothing. What does get changed or adjusted for time constraints is for the better. I disliked the omitting of Dudley's sentimental words to Harry as the Dursley's depart. However, a change I liked was the fast-paced editing and cutting of scenes. It doesn't feel as long as it does in the book. Much of the scenes that felt like they dragged on in the novel, went along very quickly and smoothly.
A majority of the comedy really works well. My theatre was roaring for a lot of the film. I think that the film's got a lot of awkward comedy this time around. Perhaps the opening scene with the "seven Potters" is what sets the tone for the comedic relief. It relieves a lot of the tension (which is a lot) throughout the film.
Perhaps one of the greatest feats in this film is the use of special and visual effects. It really improves on the frequency and the level of use(s) seen in "Order." As far as the films are concerned, I believe this one is the best one in the effects departments. However, it's still not much to sneeze at in the grand scheme of things.
Regardless of if you're a book or film fan, Harry Potter 7 (Part I) is a great film and it shouldn't be missed. In addition, Part II is going to be greatly anticipated.