Rowling's book makes a good movie (and yes, I'm a teacher)

Rating: Null/10 (13 July 2003)

There are many adaptations of movies -- and this one is definitely in the better end of the pool of that genre.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is well done if a little *too true* to the book for many adults. The characters are beautifully done, Maggie Smith and Richard Harrison are a joy in their roles as Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore and Alan Rickman makes a most wonderful Severus Snape (you can actually *enjoy* disliking this man -- he's WONDERFUL in this role). Robbie Coltrane makes a great Hagrid and the kids are so well cast that they have *become* Harry, Ron and Herminone (and Draco) to kids across the world.
The filming is on a grand scale, the fantasy is complete and beautiful, and attention to detail makes this fantasy come to life. It's a great introduction to fantasy for kids and your "not into fantasy" adult buddies as well -- and it's a good, solid, piece of work for the rest of us.
I'm looking forward to the rest of these -- tho Richard will be missed (this actor died shortly before the filming of the 3rd movie and the role will be played by Sir Michael Gambon, a veteran of British Stage and not a few movies).