From the pages of J.K. Rowling to the Hollywood big screen, lies the magical world of Harry Potter. Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) is a young boy who lives under the harsh rule of his Aunt and Uncle. One day he receives a letter that invites him to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. That's when he learns who he really is and what his future holds: to become the greatest wizard ever. Along side with his two friends Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson), these two kids face many tests and dangers including a giant three-headed dog, a game of Quidditch, an ogre that's loose in the school, a battle with the ultimate evil wizard, Lord Voldemort. While having to do all this, young Harry must also do good in school or face the consequence of returning to his Uncle Vernon (Richard Griffiths) and Aunt Petunia (Fiona Shaw).
Aside from being another children's movie, there was much hype about this movie debuting because Harry Potter is a popular children's book series. A main concern about this movie was how well it reflected the aspect and details of the book series. The movie does including details such as the sorting hat and platform nine-and-three quarters, but omits other fine facts such as the ghost history teacher and the great poem. I could understand the reason why director Chris Columbus (credits include Home Alone and Adventures In Babysitting) didn't include all the elements of the book into the movie. For starters, the movie is already over 2 hours long (which is 2 hours too long for me), and I doubt any child would sit and watch a three hour long movie. After watching the movie from start to finish, I don't see why there should be any complaints at all. The movie is still very enjoyable and transitions from the book quite nicely.
One thing I do recommend is to read the book before the movie. Reason being is because there is so many strange names and concepts in the movie. If you're not really familiar with the language this magical society uses, it can be a tad bit confusing. Just like with the Star Wars universe. It may take watching the movie several times before everything is understood completely. After all, with a sequel coming out later this year and another sequel in the works, it may be best to brush up on the characters, spells, and other surprise that are in store. With the entire Harry Potter phenomenon growing everyday, it may be wise to be in tuned with what all the kids are talking about.
Review written by dxjason
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