The Best Yet

Rating: 9/10 (29 November 2005)

What a grand movie, and what a relief that the cinematic Goblet of Fire captured the spirit of the Potter books this time around! Unlike the screen version of Prisoner of Azkaban, this movie "gets it" with regard to what is and is not important. While almost all of the book's sub-plots had to be omitted, just about everything important made it into this film, even if the way it was included was altered slightly. The changes were believable and the none of the essential elements of the story were lost. I add my voice to those declaring Goblet of Fire by far the best of the Potter movies.
I don't usually comment on special effects, but it would be a crime to ignore them in this case. I knew exactly what to expect from all the scariest parts of the movie, but even so, I was gasping and clutching my husband's hand during the dragon task and the graveyard scene. Amazing stuff. I had the advantage of seeing the movie in IMAX, and it felt like I was flying right along with Harry. If you have the opportunity to experience the film in IMAX, do it. It will be worth every penny. I really wanted to just buy another ticket and see it again, right then!
Excellent acting all around...Madame Maxine was not quite what I had pictured, but she worked. The kids improve with every movie; Daniel Radcliffe was superb in the scene immediately following the graveyard experience. I wish that we could have seen a little more of him and explored a bit more deeply the emotions he portrayed so well. If I have one criticism, it would have to be with Michael Gambon's interpretation of Dumbledore. He seems overly harsh and dictatorial, and I don't see him building the rapport with Harry that the character requires. I almost wonder if he has read the books. He is adequate, but Dumbledore really needs to be exceptional.
All in all, Goblet of Fire is a joy to watch. I plan to return to the theater at least once, and I'll certainly be adding the DVD to my collection. An absolute must-see for all Potter fans.