Another terrific entry in a great film series.

Rating: 10/10 (27 November 2005)

I'm a die-hard fan of J.K. Rowling's magical "Harry Potter" series, and I have enjoyed each of the four Hollywood films that have been based on her novels, to varying degrees. Chris Columbus' two films were good, but it was Alfonso Cuaron who elevated the series to artistry, and Mike Newell follows Cuaron's lead.
Cuaron's poetic style and intimate camera is gone, replaced with "Star Wars: Episode III" epic sweep. Everything in this film is big, loud, and energetic, reflecting the many changes sweeping through Harry's world, and the cataclysmic struggle that all informed viewers know lies ahead. The Triwizard Tournament is the centrepiece of the film, consisting largely of the three tasks, with the Yule Ball wedged in between; all leading up to the Little Hangleton graveyard, perhaps the single greatest scene in all Rowling's canon.
As the series evolves, it's young stars continue to thrive. Understated and effective Daniel Radcliffe, bumbling everyman Rupert Grint, and energetic, mannered Emma Watson have all become their characters, and it would be a tragedy were any of them to miscarry before this series ends. They're backed up, per usual, by the whole British Screen Actors Guild, doing the damnedest to steal their individual scenes. Michael Gambon is a powerful Dumbledore, Dame Maggie Smith an intelligent McGonagall, and Alan Rickman a suave Snape; newcomers like Brendan Gleeson do great work, although the presence of David Thewlis' Lupin is missed.
To all involved, our thanks.