Pretty, but disappointing

Rating: 5/10 (4 June 2004)

The movie represents about 25% of the book. Much of it seems to presume that you have read the book. It is a sometimes choppy set of vignettes that barely cover the plot and provides the reader with some visual references for the book. The effects are gorgeous and I was pleasantly surprised by David Thewlis and Gary Oldman who brought Lupin and Black to life. I was also please by the Michael Gambon as Dumbledore, he brought a new strength the for the future.
Gone, however, are the sense of community and most of the personal relationships of the book. There obviously wasn't time for them. This book and following books can not be properly contained in 2.5 hours.