Magical

Rating: 9/10 (27 December 2002)

The film adaptation of J.K. Rowling's outstanding novel, ``Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," is a riveting, joyful adventure. The cast is simply brilliant; Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint all shine as the Hogwarts first-years "Harry Potter," "Hermione Granger," and "Ron Weasley," respectively. Another outstanding cast member is Dame Maggie Smith, who plays the strict but fair "Professor McGonagall." Finally, Robbie Coltrane, as "Hagrid," and Richard Harris, as "Albus Dumbledore," are also great for their roles.
The special effects in the film are as outstanding as the cast. The particular centerpiece of this film is the Quidditch match, which is brought to us in stunning detail. The view of the Hogwarts School is also brilliantly done. I especially liked the Gryffindor Common Room with its high ceilings and tall, narrow windows - just as you'd expect in a castle's tower.
While there are a myriad of small changes and additions, the film surprisingly stays very close to the progression of the book. The so-called "lengthy" run time of the film is nothing to worry about; with this particular movie, the more the better! Besides, the film engrosses you too much and proceeds quickly enough as is. It's doubtful that anyone will be watching the clock!