Alakazam

Rating: Null/10 (14 June 2004)

Spoilers within.
Beautiful adaptation of the third Harry Potter movie makes significant omissions but still remains faithful to the Harry Potter spirit.
In this film Harry and his friends return to school shortly after the escape of Sirius Black, a prisoner of Azkaban. He was considered the greatest supporter of You-know-who, and the ministry of magic believes that he wants to kill the one who brought an end to Voldemort's reign: Harry.
Cuaron, in his first outing as a Harry Potter director, moves the world of Hogwarts farther away from the kiddie depth where it has at times been placed. The students are growing up, and getting ready to face real danger. The atmosphere is softer and more accepting of magic as a reality, not an oddity. We see students going to classes, talking with friends, getting into trouble. It no longer feels as though Harry, Ron, and Hermione are the only students of importance. In the boggart scene we see other pupils taking an active role, and doing it well. It's his attention to detail, from werewolf scars to talking heads, that keep us enthralled.
The acting has improved somewhat also. The younger actors have grown into their roles well, and have excellent instincts about their characters. The adult actors still dominate in some scenes, particular the climax. David Thewlis as Lupin is not physically what one might have expected for the werewolf professor wasting away under his curse, but his performance is fantastic. He displays the spirit of a teacher and a friend with grace. Gary Oldman as Sirius is also a great addition. There isn't time for the brooding Sirius of the novel, but Oldman still captures the essence a good, long-suffering man trying to keep a grip on his sanity. And Alan Rickman as Snape shines as always, delivering the films greatest lines.
Computer effects are less obtrusive and more genuine. You can almost reach out and touch Buckbeak or the werewolf.
The only real disappointment is Wormtail, played as a literal rat, not a sneak and a traitor.
Overall, a great film.