Little sense of struggle or danger to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Rating: 6/10 (25 November 2001)

(I have described certain elements of structure and plot but in general terms that I hope will not spoil the story for those who don't know it)
I expected a roller coaster ride, but was instead taken on a rather pedestrian stroll around the world of Harry Potter. Of course, if I'd seen this film as a young child, I would have been thrilled to bits with this escape into a world where children learn to be wizards and witches.
Having read all the books to my son, I'm not a big fan. But I did think Harry Potter's story could be made into a series of fantastic movies. In my opinion, that opportunity has been wasted. For me, the structure of the screenplay was poor, devised to please several million expectant fanatics. Because the creators of the movie had their audience on a plate, they didn't have to worry about drawing anyone into the story. So we get a series of events designed not to disappoint those coming to see their favorite bits from the book.
The beginning of the film can be compared to that of Time Bandits - young boy with nasty parents taken into another world. But whereas I was right with the boy in Time Bandits, drawn into his story by the skill of the film makers, I was only a spectator as the bizarre series of events unfold in Harry's life. I didn't really get a feeling of Harry's misery while living with the Dursleys.
Bearing in mind what you can achieve with digital effects these days, the makers of this film created little sense of great magic. A big let-down when you're watching a film about magicians. I think this film lacks the sense of awe and wonder that a director like Spielberg could have created. In fact, I felt very little emotion throughout the whole film.
It's strange that, with 2 1/2 hours to play with, I didn't really get a great deal from any of the characters. The film relies completely on the three children at the centre of the story, with the others popping up every now and then. Unfortunately, Harry is up-staged by his companions. There is hardly an indication that the evil Harry has to defeat is actually present until the end. So I didn't find the sense of struggle or danger that would have kept me on the edge of my seat.
In all, this film failed to touch me. I wanted to be there with Harry as he went from suburban misery to the wonderful Hogwarts. But I just didn't connect with him. I believe this is due, mainly, to the structure and design of the screenplay. The tame direction and some wooden acting in places didn't help.
It will of course make zillions and thrill children across the globe for many years to come.