Product: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
Rating: 5.0
One of the best Potter adaptations
Although splitting The Deathly Hallows into two films was indeed a necessary move which certainly allowed for more breathing room, the Goblet of Fire probably stands as the strongest single-film adaptation of the Potter novels. Screenwriter Steve Kloves brilliantly streamlined the busy story into an eloquent and well-paced screenplay, and director Mike Newell does a fantastic job at balancing the humour and darkness of the story.While it is unfortunate that the removal of the house-elf subplot does deprive Hermione of some character elements, it was ultimately a wise move. Otherwise, the film could easily have become cluttered and disjointed, but by focusing on the Tournament the story unfolds in a brisk, beautiful way.Many complain that too much gets removed from the Potter films, but I disagree. Film is a very different medium than print, and sprawling subplots do not translate well to the screen. Indeed, Chris Columbus's heavy-handed direction of the first two films, both of which plod along at unbearable paces, could easily have ruined the entire series. Thankfully, Alfonso Cuaron came along and made sure that Prizoner of Azkaban was a strong film, not just a bland carbon copy of what was on the page. Mike Newell continues in that mold to great effect.Each Potter film is definitely worth a watch, but it is my view that Goblet of Fire stands as the strongest entry in this impressive series.