Sunday, July 17, 2011

MOVIE REVIEW … HARRY POTTER & THE DEATHLY HALLOWS – Part 2

 

harry-potter-and-the-deathly-hallows-part-ii-movie-poster-2011-1020693694Ten years after debuting with the Philosopher’s Stone, the Harry Potter series comes to an end.  The ones who’ll probably be saddest will be the film executives who will surely miss the mountains of money it generated.  They certainly made a fortune from Part 1 of his final adventure, even if it felt like a curtain raiser to this one.  Thankfully Part 2 is a much better experience as it sees the young wizard bow out in spectacular style.

Having destroyed one of the fabled Horcrux’s and learning of the Deathly Hallows’ secrets, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) continues his quest.  Aided by friends Hermione (Emma Watson) and Ron (Rupert Grint), he attempts to find the remaining Horcruxes so he can defeat the evil Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes).  With battle lines drawn and Hogwarts School under siege, Harry and friends must banish the looming darkness before it destroys all they’ve fought hard to protect.

It wouldn’t be unfair to suggest this last hurrah is purely for fans.  Those who’ve been around since the start will be rewarded with a mostly engrossing finale wrapping up the many threads it has spun.    Although occasionally meandering from the narrative and not as emotionally engaging as it should be, David Yates’ direction ensures proceedings walk a clear trajectory towards a satisfying conclusion.  The blend of dazzling special effects and solid story work better than previously and it’s interesting how far both have come since the initial instalment.

Backing these elements throughout the entire franchise has been the acting.  Had it not been for the fine mix of skilled and emerging actors, it would have stopped long ago.  All credit to them for maintaining the quality of their performances with Radcliffe, Grint and Watson growing into their roles with ease.  Author J K Rowling should be proud of how well the movies have interpreted her vision in a way ensuring they will endure.

Any long running series has to end sometime and Harry Potter concludes with a grand flourish.  It enables the magical wonder first seen to take flight providing a fitting coda to the wizard’s fantastical adventures.

HPVII-II

Movie Review Rating 7 / 10

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

If you have any comments to make about this Movie Review, then please use the comment box, titling your comments with Movie Review HARRY POTTER & THE DEATHLY HALLOWS – Part 2

Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.

Official HomePage click HERE

No comments:

Post a Comment