2nd Best for me

Rating: 8/10 (6 November 2018)

I did enjoy this film, although Prisoner of Azkaban remains my favourite. Unlike the first two films, this did not attempt to condescend as much to small children in the audience. The tasks of the Triwizard tournament captured many thrills, particularly the second water-based task where the merpeople were suitably creepy, but the first task over-ran for a minute or two more than needed. Light romance was touched upon yet wasn't over-emphasised and didn't play a great role in the film. This movie also managed to balance the gritty, darker tone and the comedic aspect incredibly well and left me completely enthralled throughout the duration. The acting of the adult cast is, of course, exemplary as always. Alan Rickman's Snape may only have had four or so scenes but he definitely made his presences known while Maggie Smith really captured the essence of McGonagall. Many people do miss Richard Harris' Dumbledore but I found that Michael Gambon has done an excellent job of moulding the role to make it his own. Dumbledore feels very human in the way he carries the weight of the wizarding world on his shoulders and though he struggles at times, his concern for his pupils is paramount. The younger cast have also grown into their roles, improving from their previous outing. Rupert Grint, usually used to playing a comical and stupid Ron, had the chance to cut his acting teeth and show Ron's darker, bitter side and he did well. The Phelp twins have also improved dramatically. No longer do they come across as wooden cut-outs just reading from a cue-card and instead they are able to show the mischievous spontaneity of the Weasley twins. The reason i find this film so good compared to others in the series is once again the plot. It manages to capture the magic so well, as well as making it different from others. The action is done incredibly well and the final scenes are a masterpiece. I was on the edge of my seat throughout and believe the cinematography will hold up for many years to come.