"Well-mannered frivolity"

Rating: 10/10 (10 March 2006)

I am not a frantic Potter-ophile but have read and greatly enjoyed all the books. I've enjoyed all the films as well but felt there was sometimes a lack of tension in the films...until The Goblet of Fire. I rate this so high because the film carries almost all of the important elements necessary to propel the story but even more shows what life is really like as a student of Hogwarts. The tension and elements are all fun but I particularly enjoyed the kids and how they've matured and seem to be working more in sync with each other. Also, most of the adults are given at least one good scene to show their stuff and I thought Maggie Smith was particularly hilarious. Why Brendan Gleeson didn't cop an Supporting Actor nom is beyond me. He ate up the screen. The script is tight and multiple viewings helps tie key elements together as well as what is forthcoming in future films. Those who feel every book chapter must transfer to the screen or the film is a failure should take note that including every little nuance makes for a long and tortuous experience. Now that the kids are "aging" I can't wait to see how they handle...hmmm....hmmm... Miss Umbridge.