Great movie, but some poor choices were made

Rating: 7/10 (19 August 2012)

This is a great movie overall, even though it does waver quite a bit from the book. The three tasks were done very well, and the whole atmosphere of the film matches that of the book, which I always think is important. Also, Mike Newell does a very good job at directing--there are some really fantastic close-ups as well as wide, seeping shots, and shots from interesting perspectives.
However, some of the choices made during or for the filming of this movie weren't very good. For instance, I believe the director wanted all the male actors to grow out their hair, but it simply looks ridiculous, especially Rupert Grint. Also, sometimes characters act in ways that doesn't seem very natural according to who they are, such a Dumbledore and, occasionally, Cedric Diggory.
Overall, though, the acting is top-notch. The trio seems to have improved even more, including Emma Watson, whom I didn't think could improve. Some other stand-out roles were Ralph Fiennes as Lord Voldemort and Brendan Gleason interpreting Mad-Eye Moody. Also, Miranda Richardson does a fantastic job with Rita Skeeter, although her role is rather small.
Although probably being my least-favorite Harry Potter movie, this movie is definitely very good, especially when you take it as a movie and not a recreation of the book. Some things could definitely have been improved upon, but nonetheless, everyone involved did a great job.