Overall quite disappointing

Rating: Null/10 (25 May 2004)

After having seen a screening of the movie in Hollywood last night I regret to say that I do not understand the enthusiasm I've seen written in other reviews. I am a great fan of the Harry Potter series, I have read all of the books,and the 'Prisoner of Azkaban' is one of my favorites. Nevertheless, I regret to say that it would appear from this film that Mr Cuaron is a muggle. The change of direction was evident throughout. The entire 'feel' of the Harry Potter universe was changed, the 'magic' so skillfully created by Ms Rowling and captured by Mr Columbus was all but gone. The actors themselves seemed ill at ease at times and there was 'staged' feel in many of the scenes. I also cannot see how anyone unfamiliar with the book would have a chance of following the disjointed and highly diluted plot. Nevertheless, there were some high points. There were many humorous and well acted scenes, and the cast is a collection of some of the finest actors around today. Despite its failings, I would recommend anyone even a little bit interested in Harry Potter to see it.