Superb adaption of the book.

Rating: 8/10 (6 December 2005)

Let me start off with stating that I am not a HP fan. I've read the books, and thought they were fairly entertaining, but nothing special, The first 2 films were adequate, but once again nothing special. I liked the 3rd film because it began to delve into a more sinister and darker tone...which I must say is the setting for this film.
Story: As most people know, Harry Potter is now back at school with friends and foes, but now had been anonymously selected to take part in a competition amongst three different schools. It's good to see that all the films have a sense of structure, starting off with harry going to school, investigation around the school and then ending with a finale and him leaving school. What I did like about this film, is how it took out Harry's Aunt and Uncle, which meant it gave extra critical time to the actual story development (which is a good thing considering the book is massively bigger compared to the other 3)
Acting: Acting wise, everyone is good, not brilliant but not under-average. It's good to see the children actors / actresses finally sink into their roles, whereas in the first 2 films (and sort of 3rd) they seemed rather hesitant at times. Michael Gambon, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, Robbie Coltraine and the brilliant Brendan Gleeson are all charming and bring unique qualities to their own characters.
Special Effects: Overall they were superb, the dragons, backdrops and even the little things (floating candles) were done superbly and really made u feel emerged in the fantasy world of HP.
Overall the film is excellent and well worth a watch. However, if your expecting a light-hearted and innocent trip through Hogwarts, be warned...things are a lot darker and sinister.