A Film with true Magic

Rating: Null/10 (3 July 2004)

I've seen this movie after seeing "Spider-Man 2", and in my opinion this is a much better "fantasy" movie. While Spider-Man attempts to ground the fantasy aspect amidst everyday real-life situations, this move is not encumbered by any such goals. Its a fantasy movie through and through. It therefore succeeds in making the audience suspend their disbelief far better than Spider-Man, making it enjoyable escapist fare. I certainly did not want to leave the theatre after, I wanted to linger in that world of magic for just a little bit longer. I suppose I have to wait for the next installment of Harry Potter.
In particular, I found the music and the general backdrop worthy of recommendation. Each played a significantly important role in drawing the audience into JK Rowling's world. Scenes of note - the song by the choir in the beginning, and Professor Lupin's room with all those golden globes when he is teaching Harry stand out. Alan Rickman as Professor Snape outdid himself this time around; while mostly everyone else seemed a little rushed into their dialouges (with the exception of maybe Lupin), Rickman alone seemed to take that extra frame before talking, resulting in that delicious menace that seemed to underly Snape's words.
And I've saved the best for the last - Emma Watson as Hermione. Alfonso Cuaron seemingly did not need to work much oh her, she brings a certain magic all of her own to every scene she is in. The beauty of Emma is that she somehow manages to carry off Hermione's know-it-all stuffiness, her superhuman workload (all those extra classes) and most importantly, the guiding force for Ron and Harry (think about it, how many of their 'sensible' actions have been influenced by Hermione?) without ever giving the suggestion that its anything but Harry's movie. If Harry is somewhat of a loose cannon, albeit a powerful one, it is Hermione who provides the stability in the background.
Hermione is again responsible for key elements towards the climax - (* WARNING, SPOILERS Ahead* ) Hermione throwing the stones into Hagrid's hut to warn of the Minister and the executioner's arrival, Hermione's time travel amulet being crucial to saving the day, and Hermione saving Harry's life by calling the werewolf-Lupin away. In a rather delicious bit of irony, the film admits this when Sirius tells her "You are indeed the brightest witch of your time" or words to that effect. A truly profound moment. ( *END SPOILERS* ) And of course she's pretty to boot, with very expressive eyes. Sometimes you get the feeling the camera is afraid to linger on Hermione for too long... for obvious reasons. It is no wonder that Cuaron mentioned in an interview that he would love to do a Love story with Emma when she is older, and we have no doubt in her ability to deliver.
As for those who pain themselves about the pieces of the plot that had to be left out, all I can say is if you see the movie for yourself, and you don't expect exactment or perfection, you wont be disappointed. If while watching the movie you concern yourself with say your friend who hasn't read the book and fret that he/she might not follow the story, then yes you might end up feeling short changed. My take on it? Enjoy the movie, and point your friend in the direction of the books. A good chance to convert yet another :)