No plot spoilers. Just some basic info.
If you liked the book then you will hate the film as the film strips down all the unnecessary parts of the book and streamlines it into a very watchable experience (a nudge over 2 hours). The pace was perfect, the direction assured and the acting (apart from Daniel Radcliffe who I find annoyingly wooden as Harry) bringing depth to the characters.
Personally I hated the book (have not like any of them since book 3) and I thank god that the screenwriters are able to strip down the books in a way that Rowling's editors seem scared or unable too. The film is tense, and smaller children may be frightened by some scenes at the end but they are keeping in with the way that the film has been handled. It contains a genuine moment of emotional depth I would have found it hard to credit in this kind of film (bought a tear to my eye) but Mike Newell is not signed to do any of the other films as the next book has more emotional complexity to it.
If you are not a fan than I suggest seeing it as it may make you appreciate the essence of the books. If you are a fan of the books then leave your scepticism at the door and prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
Posted by AlexC at November 28, 2005 01:58 PMI'm curious. Were the missing parts sheer crap in and of themselves, or could this entire story have made a good two-part, 4-hour TV series?
Posted by: Harvey at November 28, 2005 04:13 PMI like your thoughts. I have not seen the movie... but I was not happy with the last book. I can't wait until it comes out on DVD and I get to see it!!!
Posted by: vw bug at November 28, 2005 06:04 PMI've never seen the books, but I've watched the movies with my eldest. He seems to enjoy them and they aren't painful to watch.
Posted by: Contagion at November 28, 2005 10:33 PMI liked both the book and the movie!
Posted by: Bonnie at December 10, 2005 02:20 AM