Strong performances, some weak effects

Rating: 8/10 (16 November 2001)

Forget a few gaps in the plot and some dodgy computer effects, the strength of "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" is the wonderful cast. The three child leads are superb, each uncannily like their printed counterparts (as I imagined them). Alan Rickman is hilariously nasty as Snape, Richard Harris quietly understated as wise old Dumbledore, Robbie Coltrane IS lovable giant Hagrid, everyone is just RIGHT! Big names such as John Cleese and Julie Walters appear in little more than cameo roles, knowing their time will come in the sequels, I suppose.
Unfortunately, some effects are below par (various creatures aren't too convincing), but it's not a disaster because this film is about the characters and the story, not monsters. That said, there are some wonderful flying effect sequences.
The cinema had a good deal of young children in it and they were enthralled, I've never known a young audience so well behaved! In short, "Bloody brilliant!"