The Cliff-Notes Version of the Book on Film

Rating: Null/10 (15 June 2004)

I have mixed feelings towards this new Harry Potter installment; while it is decidedly better then the first two it felt very rushed. Previosly Columbus would strive to include vital plot details and explore the many subplots that make the books interesting. In this version however the movie feels rushed. I read the book when it came out and do not remember every small detail but is was extremely obvious to me that the director was paying lipservice to many of the subplots by casually mentioning them. The main plot itself was not well explained was not well explained. The relationships between the characters was not explored, and there was very little development. The film just seemed to be a cliff-notes of the book; mention the important details, get a few wrong, and make sure it is done with in a couple of hours As usual the ensemble of British character actors was wonderful and the children seem to be getting better. One major compliant i had with the first two films is that the camera would somewhat stop and focus on a little piece of handiwork that the special effects team put together. This self appreciating habit has all but disappeared in this film except for several laughable gags with a extremely violent tree.