As someone who takes great joy in reading the Harry Potter books, I was dissapointed by the movie. However, good things first: the set was wonderful, as were the costumes and the props. It was faithful to the book, to the point of being a scene-by-scene adaptation. The actor who played Ron was great, as were Neville, Draco, and most of the others at Hogwarts. Harry was decent, but didn't have much personality (although he doesn't have that much in the book either). Hermione was ok, but less so after seeing interviews with her on tv.

Unfortunately it is time for the bad parts. It cannot stand on its own. It is really just a supplement to the book. If I had not read the books, I know that I would have had a very difficult time understanding it, and would certainly NOT have gotten a flavor for the story and characters. It is completely superficial, and is really not put together like a movie. It has no life when viewed apart from the book. It also loses the Britishness of Harry Potter, as it is directed by the American who brought you 'Home Alone'. Although words like 'wicked' and 'brilliant' are kept, everything else British goes away. The style of film is American; namely it focuses on action over everything else.

Recommended:
No

Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 9 - 12