Wednesday, November 24, 2010

MOVIE REVIEW … HARRY POTTER & THE DEATHLY HALLOWS – Part 1

 

harry-potter-and-the-deathly-hallows-part-i-movie-poster-1020558723 If the term ‘creating accounting’ is used in the business world, then ‘creative editing’ is one aptly applying to movies.  There’s certainly much of it in Harry Potter’s seventh adventure – so much so it’s been split in two.  But has it been done for the love of the book or money?  The studio would like everyone believe the former, although unfortunately the latter more than describes this instalment.  Not that it’s a complete waste but the studio’s demand to edit rather than produce an enchanting fantasy has diluted the soul the series once had.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I

After evil Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) has gained control of the Ministry of Magic, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) takes affirmative action.  Helped by his friends Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson), he searches for Voldemort’s fabled Horcruxes – tools he uses to attain immortality.  Whilst doing so they come across the Deathly Hallows – a trio of magical objects crucial in defeating their enemies.  With time running out and Voldemort’s minions closing in, Harry must use every trick he has learnt in order to prevent their plans for world domination.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I

At this point in the franchise’s life, it’s now only the fans who are watching.  They’ll make Deathly Hallows Part 1 another massive Potter hit, although this is probably the first time they may feel they’ve been taken for a ride.  Much like the magic within, it’s like a huge confidence trick with the ads promising action but the reality delivering little.  The first hour involving Harry’s escape from Voldemort’s Death Eaters and infiltration of the Ministry of Magic are great – the classic style everyone knows full of tension and purpose.  It’s when they begin their journey in finding the Horcruxes events fall apart.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I

The next ninety minutes drags proceedings to a virtual stand-still.  This is clearly evident in sequences involving the main trio who ponder their lives and the mission ahead.  The Potter series is meant to entertain with these scenes unfurling the magic the series has worked so hard to maintain.  Part 1 is really just a curtain-raiser for Part 2, with the exposition and dramatic drive all front-loaded so the series can end with a flourish next year.  It’s difficult not to feel cheated by this, although the special effects and photography are still awe-inspiring even if the plodding script isn’t.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I

The failure to engage the viewer through its entirety is this film’s major mistake.  Blame should go to a studio targeting audience’s pockets than their hearts as Part 1 represents the mis-step the series has made towards its journey towards its anticipated conclusion.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I

Movie Review Rating  6  /  10

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

HARRY POTTER & THE DEATHLY HALLOWS – Part 1 released in Australia on Thursday 18 November 2010.

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