Let's be reasonable

Rating: 8/10 (19 November 2005)

I watched the 12 a.m. showing of this movie as well. Unlike many other fans, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have read all Harry Potter books more than once, so am very familiar with the series. Yes, I do feel, like others, that the beginning of the movie moved pretty quickly in comparison to the novel. However, what can we really expect? I felt the director did a good job in displaying integral parts. The emphasis of the movie was placed on the most important themes: the maturing of the characters, and the full emergence of Voldermort. The director did an excellent job in capturing the awkward feelings of teenagers in that age, and the end seen was played out exactly how I imagined it. He achieved the task of leaving that eerie feeling looming for the audience to wonder "what will happen next". As Hermione says, "Everything is going to change now, isn't it". (This not being a spoiler as the line is in the trailer) Only thing: I believe too much emphasis was directed to a certain character that should not have been suspected at all in the movie. Yes, there were many enjoyable details left out that us readers may have liked to see play out. Fortunately, Rowling has a talent of writing incredibly intricate books. There is no way they would have been able to create a movie that would do the novel justice in 2 1/2 hours time. I believe the director made good choices in the cutting of the novel. If you enjoy the movies and have not read the books...I can definitely say: YOU'RE MISSING OUT! However, for the audience members who are simply looking for good magical fun..they will definitely get that from watching any of the Harry Potter movies. The basic themes are displayed..and the movies are cohesive enough for non-readers to understand the main plot. The graphics are amazing, the cinematography incredible, and the whole movie completely entertaining and enjoyable from the beginning to the end. I definitely recommend this movie...but it may not be for the small ones due to some dark themes. Enjoy!