Visually nice, but too long

Rating: 7/10 (2 June 2002)

The main problem with this movie is that it is too long. It is too faithful to the book. The moviemakers seemed reluctant to streamline the plot and pick up the pace. The video I rented recently contained two scenes (after the ending credits) which had been cut from the movie. Both were good cuts, neither needed to be in the movie. More scenes should have been cut.
That said, the movie is beautiful. All of the effects (except the 3 headed dog) are well done. There are lots of great sequences, such as the entry into Hogwarts, the first flying lesson, and the Quidich match. The ending sequence, with the series of puzzles is a little disappointing, but only because it doesn't really live up to the earlier scenes.