Back
Watching the film, I can’t help but look for the special effects; that’s just how I am when I watch films like this. They are excellent from the beginning sequence to ending credit. I was sucked right into this “world” that was created right before my eyes, and I had nothing else to do but to watch with fascination.
But this is one of those risky films. Something like “Star Wars” was to the 70s, and “Indiana Jones” was to the 80s. I have a huge respect for directors who take something on like this. This film cost an incredible amount of money to make, and even though it was pretty much a given because of the numerous readers, can you imagine what would happen if this franchise flopped? That certainly wouldn’t be good for Hollywood. And even worse for the young actors who star in the film.
Of the thousands of boys who tried for the coveted role of Harry Potter, executives chose Daniel Radcliffe. Finding a person who could not only act, but looked like Potter wasn’t an easy task, but I must admit he looks like him quite a bit. And what’s more is that Radcliffe does a good job, especially for a first film. In the book, Harry’s friends become Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson). Both Watson and Grint are good as well. They have a good time.
Although this is one of those huge almost epic films, the takes for each scene really aren’t that long. I don’t think is a lack of skill from the director, but rather the director letting the kids get used to making films. Shorter takes is less stressful, and the more actors can remember their lines.
I half expected this film to be made by all first-timers, or at least people new to filmmaking, but it turns out that many veterans are on board. The score of the film, by the always-reliable composer John Williams, is both sweeping and intense. But I have a large amount of respect for Williams too. He composes incredible scores, but never let’s the music get in the way. You may remember John Williams from the “Star Wars” films, and basically every Spielberg film ever made.
Yes, the film is grand and a lot of fun to watch, but I can’t leave out complaints. I said before that the film is centered for kids, but doesn’t seem childish. However, even though the characters are my age, I just didn’t have that connection that I thought would be there. Mr. Columbus, the more connection the audience has with the character, the better we feel what they’re feeling. I guess I shouldn’t say that, though, because I’m sure that there were plenty of moviegoers who felt the connection very well. *** ½