Goblet: Easily the best of the series, so far.

Rating: 8/10 (14 November 2005)

They're a little older; the direction is a little tighter; and the stories are a little darker, but the three kids remain fast friends, no matter what happens  or who comes between them.
Of course, we're talking about Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) and his buds, Hermoine Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Gint), who are now in their fourth year at the Hogwart School of Wizadry. And though not much of a Harry Potter fan myself, the action in this one was spectacular and the vision even darker as directed by Mike Newell ("Four Weddings and a Funeral," "Donnie Brasco") than part three, "The Prisoner of Azkaban."
As per usual, sinister beings and evil magicians are pursuing Mr. Potter as he tries to complete his fourth year of school. To protect him, the academy's headmaster, Albus Dumbledore (Michael Gambon, "Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow") assigns "Mad Eye" Moody (Brendan Gleeson, "Braveheart") to protect him.
Meanwhile Hogwart's has been named the host venue for the annual Tri-Wizard competition, in which the best spellbinder from each school is chosen to represent their classmates. The competition is only for those 17 years of age and over, but, somehow, the magic Goblet of Fire spews fourth 14-year-old Harry's name, as well.
Forced to battle dragons, evil mermaids and a horrible, claustrophobic hedge maze, Harry discovers he is fighting much more than just his Tri-Wizard opponents. This is made quite clear when his old nemesis Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes, "Quiz Show," "Schindler's List") re-appears to face his young conquerer.
The title character is hard-pressed as usual, but finds he can get just as far by using his heart and head rather than brute force or warlock powers.
While dark and atmospheric for the most part, "Goblet" has some fun moments, as well. The opening Quiddich World Cup  between Ireland and Bulgaria  brief as it is, is still a wonder; also the Yule Ball  in which we get a hint of who is attracted to whom  is very well done, sweetly realistic and even a bit sad.
Speaking of love, the hefty Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane) falls head over heels for the 7-foot-plus French school headmistress, Madame Olympe Maime, in the film's best comedic moments.
The most outstanding feature of the movie, however, is the terrific cinematography (by Roger Pratt, "Troy," "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"). His lush landscapes, snow-covered mountain peaks, towering spires and rich, barren forests are absolute wonders to behold. Look for an Oscar nod to come Pratt's way in January.
And although a bit older than the 14-year-olds portrayed in the film (Gint is two years ahead of Watson in real life), the trio seems as young and fresh-faced as the author, J.K. Rowling envisioned them in this particular episode. For actors who have really only known one part in their careers, these three make the most of the opportunity and do a fine job.
Overall, though a tad slow in a few spots, the picture is a triumph of good storytelling, sincere acting, amazing cinematography and seamless special effects, making it easily the best of the four in the series, so far.