Brilliant

Rating: 8/10 (12 July 2007)

This movie is great and not for the faint of heart! By far, it was the most thrilling and adult film of the series and had many surprising moments and stunning visual effects. The movie was pretty loyal to the book, considering the nearly 900 page adaption, though character development was clearly lacking in the script as so much was cut out. If you are a fan of Chris Columbus' sappy kiddy style films you probably will not enjoy this film much. However if you like POA and GOF, this film will be highly entertaining.
The actors are brilliantly cast, especially Evanna Lynch as Luna, Imelda Stanuton as Umbridge and Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange. The acting itself has improved tenfold. Dan Radcliffe finally does the role of Harry Potter justice, Rupert Grint is wonderful as always and Emma Watson has vastly improved as well.
Yates directing style is very raw and edgy which gives the film a much grittier tone than its predecessors. Goldenberg's screen writing is not as impressive, as he focuses to much on Umbridge in my opinion which sacirfices development for nearly every other character in the movie. However he does produce some shining moments. My only critique is that there are too many montages for my liking-in fact at some times the film can seem like one giant montage but to adapt a 900 book into a 2 hour movie must include montages i guess. It's definitely one of the best Potter films for sure!