Harry's Baptism by Fire

Rating: 8/10 (1 February 2006)

In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the fourth in the Harry Potter series, the adrenalin of competition, fear of the unknown and the surge of adolescent hormones make for a powerful potion indeed. This is a story of tournaments and trophies, where heroes are simultaneously idolized and envied. And it is a story fuelled by adolescence, with all the agony and uncertainty that accompanies self-awareness.
Adapted from the J.K Rowling book by Steve Kloves, who also adapted the three previous films, Director, Mike Newell, set out to create "an absolutely classical thriller". He admits to being ruthless in taking out elements of the book that are not consistent with this genre. With no time for our banal Muggle world, the film concentrates on the Magical realm with its limitless ability to amaze and surprise. As he builds on the dark moodiness of the previous film, Newell does provide some humorous relief and there is a highly suggestive and infectious thread of romantic opportunities.
As with the previous films, the CGI special effects are phenomenal and key to creating the magical and dramatic world of Hogwarts. With the entire film immersed in the world of magic, the integration of the special effects in The Goblet of Fire appears seamless and utterly convincing.
The return of the Voldemort's faithful followers, the Deatheaters, and their disruption of the Quidditch World Cup sets an ominous tone for another contest, The Triwizard Tournament. The tournament pitches champions from three of the largest schools of wizardry against each other. Delegations from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang dramatically arrive at Hogwarts to learn that the Ministry of Magic has imposed an age restriction on contenders  only students who are 17 years or older will be considered to represent their school. The selection of the 3 competing champions falls to the powerfully magical object called the Goblet of Fire.
Although Harry Potter is only 14 and clearly not interested in the "eternal glory (that) awaits the student who wins the tournament." he is the unprecedented fourth champion selected by the Goblet. And so Harry is pitted against the other more mature and able champions in 3 life-threatening tasks that rely on both his knowledge and use of magic to succeed. If this was not daunting enough, the dark forces of evil manipulate and intimidate and Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) is finally given form.
But there is more than just magic in the air. Harry and his friends are battling to discover who they are and becoming more aware of those around them. The film masterfully illuminates this key crisis of adolescence. There is heightened excitement in the preparation for the Yule Tide Ball and the agony of securing a desirable dance partner in time.
As in previous films Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), the only known person to ever survive the unforgivable curse of Avada Kedavra, is often an onlooker  observing from the sidelines. He is thrust into the spotlight against his will and without confidence in his abilities. He confesses "I'm not ready for this" only to be told "You don't have a choice" and in response to the question "What are your strengths?" he quickly admits "Really, I don't know".
Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) is responsible for many of the humorous quips in the film. A sports-loving, bum-ogling teenage boy whose mother has no idea of acceptable attire, he cannot help being envious of Harry and battles through the confusion of his role in events. "Yeah, that's me. Ron Weasley. Harry Potter's stupid friend.".
Perspicacious and practical Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) seems to be way ahead of the boys in all things and is often frustrated by their lack of maturity and insensitivity. Though she does not suffer many of their insecurities, she cannot escape the changing dynamics of their friendship. Ron tactlessly tries to invite her to the Ball with "You're a girl" and she retorts "Oh, well spotted".
Whether a tribute to Mike Newell's directorship or a testament to their experience and maturity, all 3 of the key players  Radcliffe, Watson and Grint - deliver their best performances to date.
The film also introduces Mad-eye Moody (Brendan Gleeson), who is staggering as the new teacher of Defence Against the Dark Arts. He is an incredibly damaged visual reminder of the dangers of battling against evil. And the sensationalist reporter, Rita Skeeter (Miranda Richardson) is appropriately brash with overt sex appeal and her lurid imagination.
From the awesome sensory overload of the Quidditch World Cup, where the stadium rocks with adrenalin, to the Triwizard Tournament at home at Hogwarts, hormones and competition rage and the pace of the film rarely lets up. Unfortunately, Evil is only just thwarted from outright victory, but Harry and his friends do win the battle for the emotional maturity we know they are going to need in the even darker times ahead.