Review from one who has NOT read the books

Rating: 9/10 (19 November 2001)

First, as the title to this review indicates, I, unlike so many of the teeming masses that went to see this movie opening weekend, have not read the J.K. Rowling books so other than the tidbits I had picked up from my wife, I had no clue what to expect other than long lines. But my wife would have killed me if we hadn't gone. Well in fact, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I had a hundred questions for my wife about the books afterward and will likely now find some time to read the books so I can see how it compares. I found the world J.K. Rowling created to be quite charming and full of a life of its own. Hogwarts was nothing short of stunning in its concept and rendering. Kudos to the actors too...Alan Rickman was FANTASTIC (but then he usually is) and the child actors were well chosen and very likeable. Daniel Radcliffe was a tad shallow of emotion as Harry, but not nearly so much as I was lead to believe by the critics. In short, if you have any doubts, go see this movie. You won't be disappointed even if you aren't a rabid fan of the books.