Everything I expected it to be...and possibly more.

Rating: 9/10 (11 November 2011)

Before I begin this review, I'd like to state that I am a big fan of the Harry Potter books and movies. I feel that the books are interesting and can be just as much for adults as they can be for kids. The movies do a good job capturing the essence of the book and are all very strong adaptations, yet still remain fresh and new.
With that said, let's get this review going. By the time the movie starts and I see the Warner Bros. sign coming towards me, with excellent musical accompaniment by Alexander Dumas, I am already invested. And, as the movie continues, it gets better and better.
The story, for those who read the book, was already revealed in 2007, but I must admit that it is cool to see it fully realized on the big screen. The filmmakers do an excellent job of capturing Rowling's riveting storytelling. Are events and details left out? Of course. But, for the most part, this movie does a good job at being faithful to its source material.
The cast is at their best here. The three main child actors do exceptional jobs, and admittedly, this is the first time I actually feel for them. They've come a long way from being the sweet children from the first movie and have now evolved into well-developed characters that we love. The supporting cast, however, does a great job, as well. Each and every actor/actress gives so much weight to his/her character that it's absolute perfection. Particular acclaim goes to Alan Rickman as Severus Snape. The character has evolved extraordinarily from the cold, calculating potions teacher to the sympathetic, three dimensional character that we bother to concern ourselves with. Rickman should definitely win something for his performance...maybe even an Oscar?
The visuals are splendid and heart wrenching. I kept seeing the destruction of Hogwarts on commercials but when I finally saw it on film, I couldn't hold back the tears. Seeing some of these beloved characters go through so much destruction and pain is almost too much, and yet, at the same time, pretty entertaining. The cinematography is beautiful, with much care and detail put into it, much like the previous Potter movies.
Final verdict: this is hands down the best film in the Harry Potter saga. It proves that wanna- be sagas like Twilight don't win the audience over through rushed romances and undeveloped characters, but with a compelling story and care put into every single detail. I will miss these movies and, if you're a fan of the franchise or not, go check it out. There's something for everyone.