A spellbinding ending to an unforgettable tale

Rating: 10/10 (17 August 2011)

My 10/10 doesn't just go to this film but also the franchise and the books. With the 'Deathly Hallows', I chose not to read the book so it wouldn't spoil the film for me (that and I had A-Levels). It worked! Also, the extended trailer shows a lot of action and may spoil your film experience so it's best to watch that after the film, in my opinion. Despite the film being the last one, surprisingly I didn't feel sad at the credits.
This final installment seemed to mention and explain the key parts of the story that were needed for the ending. However, I have read parts of the last books since watching the film and they are still really enjoyable to read. They provide more explanation with plot details. What annoyed me with some of the previous films (E.g. 'Order of the Phoenix') was that some important plot details were never mentioned; such as, why Harry must stay at the Dursley's until Voldemort is defeated. Whereas, other details were mentioned in later films to make up for the absence. It has been fairly obvious how each Director has imposed their own interpretation of the story and appearance in the films. Still, the books and the films together create a complete understanding of the story.
Also, I've noticed that the films got progressively darker over the years and I don't just mean the plot (we all know that), I'm referring to the actual lighting. In the 'Half-Blood Prince' with the fight scene in the toilets, the scene is virtually black and white. Even the sunlight in some scenes has this golden tinge rather than bringing out the colour in everything else.
Interestingly, this final part also puts a focus on the fear of dying. The book has at the very beginning 2 poems about death. There is a flashback scene in the film that is perhaps the most powerful scene because it is such a revelation. Even Dumbledore speaks some wisdom but he shows a slight dark side as well (It's remarkable how similar he is to Gandalf in 'Lord of the Rings'). At first, after Richard Harris died, I was sceptical of Michael Gambon as Dumbledore but over the series, he fit into the role, allowing me to take Dumbledore more seriously.
Furthermore, some of the side characters had really prominent parts in this final film. McGonagal, Molly Weasley, The Malfoys and especially Snape and Nevelle. Hagrid not so much. Nevelle has changed so much over the franchise, physically as well as characteristically. He is very heroic and gives a cliché yet well-spoken speech in front of everyone in the film. Snape also plays a completely different character to the one we know. Alan Rickman plays him perfectly in my opinion. I love the way he puts emphasis into every word he speaks.
The film is also pretty action packed throughout and gets started immediately, even before the title shows. I like the sneaking behind enemy lines aspect in the films. My friend was disappointed that the centaurs were not featured in this one. However, I was pleased that the duel was beefed out for the crescendo rather than just the simple connection of wands that we had already seen in 'Goblet of Fire'. There was even some cheeky slapping going on! The showdown was all the more satisfying that Voldemort was clearly peeved off. You can tell things are gonna kick-off.
On the other hand, there didn't seem to be much 3D effects. The latest 3D shows best when there are tiny things floating around in the scene, such as ash. It's up to you whether or not to watch it in 3D. I guess it is the last chance to.
Another thing I like about 'Harry Potter' is that it is British. There are so many American films (don't get me wrong, most of them are great!) but it's nice to have one that makes use of our landmarks and employs a fantastic British cast and crew, thus helping the country's reputation.
I think what made 'Harry Potter' more enjoyable, for me, was that I grew up with the characters. I could equate with their teenage angst and relationships and schooling. I can't say the same for what it feels like to lose parents and be hunted by psychopaths at a young age though, thank God! The narrative has always conveyed good morals and a fierce battle between good and evil. For all that Harry has suffered, he remains not to be a vengeful character. This film, just like most of the others, is a perfect blend of action, wit, romance, horror and fantasy, enough to give a lasting emotional enjoyment that films are meant to provoke. Even if this film wasn't that good, It would still be watched in order to complete the story.
J.K. Rowling has created such a fascinating wizarding world which I'm sure leaves a possibility for developing more wonderful stories, despite this story being called, 'Harry Potter'. It certainly makes a refreshing change to the countless films containing guns. I don't think a new story can be as great as 'Harry Potter' but I'm up for it regardless.