As we get ready for the new Harry Potter movie and look forward to the final two, it's a good time to remember where it all started. Look at how young the stars were in the first film, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone!
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Harry Potter: Looking Back
Sunday July 12, 2009
Categories: For Your Netflix Queue, Movie Mom's Top Picks for Families
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Normally, I don't think the movie does justice to the book, but in this case, I think they are just different. I love the books, and the movies are equally wonderful to me. It's like asking whether the book or movie of "Gone with the Wind" were better. Both great, but very different from each other.
For one thing, in addition to the wonderful child actors who have grown into the leads (and all the terrific supporting child actors) and the incredible production values and special effects, the Harry Potter films feature just about every great living British actor. It is such a treat to see even small adult roles played by brilliant actors, and the way that they play off each other and the children is such a treat. My favorite (of course) is Alan Rickman as Severus Snape. (Snape has been one of my favorite characters since the first book.)
I agree, Alicia! Every one of those adult performances is a gem and it is a treat to see the way the kids have matured along with their characters.
A book and a movie are two different things. Books focus on what people think; plays on what they say, movies on what they do. They address the same themes, but are very different kinds of story-telling. It is wonderful that this extraordinary series of books has inspired a series of movies that may not be true to every literal element of the written versions but are very true to the spirit.
My review of the new one will be up in a few hours. Here's a preview: I loved it!
I can't wait to see your review, Nell. The movie is at almost 100% Fresh on Rottentomatoes, and the reviewers are over the moon about it.
I love this movie!
ToddDiroberto
Me, too, Todd, thanks!
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