As a MOVIE (NOT A BOOK ON SCREEN)...it was Awesome!

Rating: Null/10 (4 June 2004)

No Spoilers.
First off, I didn't read this book. Therefore, you won't hear me harshly ridiculing the screenplay writer or director for "changing this" or "it wasn't like that in the book". Guess what people, you are watching a M O V I E that a bunch of low-attention span kids will be watching. Of course you can't stuff an entire book's plot evolution into a movie. Just look at what Peter Jackson faced with Lord of the Rings (which I did read and watch).
I LOVED THIS MOVIE. In general, this was one of the better movies I've seen in a long time. >From the superbly done special effects that didn't take away from a scene to the clever plot twists and its unfolding. I loved how the viewer was able to see MORE of the outside landscape. It added a richness and believability to the surroundings and storyline.
I would not recommend this movie for children under 10. Some of the scarier parts had my wife jumping for my arm. The "Dementors" and the Werewolf were awesomely done but could provide ample material for nightmares.
As a whole, this was a well done 'FILM' worth enjoying once and seeing again.