Imaginative Enactment of Classic with Impressive Special Effects & Fine Storytelling.

Rating: 8/10 (3 January 2002)

The long anticipated Harry Potter has something for everyone. Fans of the book, which I did not read, are treated to what I understand is a faithful reproduction of the text. Although people like me will not know about muggles, hogwarts, goblins, wizards, elves and Sorcerer's Stones, that disadvantage can be overcome. The wide range of villains and obstacles for our heroes to conquer will satisfy adventure fans. The unusual number of surprises and defiances of convention should delight magic aficionados. Admirers of good performing will appreciate the ensemble acting of Harry Potter (Dan Radcliffe) and classmates Ronald (Rupert Grint) and especially Hermione (Emma Watson II). Veteran actors Maggie Smith, Richard Harris, John Hurt and John Cleese ably support them. Feminists will appreciate how Hermione takes charge in critical moments in an effort to rescue her male companions. She does it with brains and wizardry rather than force and violence. I admire her spunk.
There are two spectacular sequences, one involving an air game resembling hockey and the other a chess match with violence at every move. Other special effects -- involving wizardry, secret passages and unusual adversaries like giant creatures and three-headed dogs -- keep the audience at the edge of its seat. The castle that houses the school campus is itself a sight to behold with forbidden chambers, fascinating architecture and lively student body and faculty. Of course, there is the classic battle between good and evil, but many characters have elements of both. Action scenes are plentiful, but not to the extent that character development and plot are neglected. The fast pace ensures that no one will be bored, although the multitude of characters with weird names and obscure powers (e.g. potion making, levitation) is sometimes hard to follow. In short, Harry Potter is not groundbreaking, but a fun movie that knows how to pace itself and end on cue. It tells a good story and allows our imaginations, often constrained since childhood, to flourish again.
It's suitable for children and adults. Despite some violence, there's no profanity, nudity or anything offensive for younger eyes. However, it may be too intense for children under six. Adults can also enjoy this as escapist entertainment not unlike an Indiana Jones movie. At my showing at 6:30 in the evening, all viewers were grown-ups. I look forward to the sequel.