There and Back Again

Harry Potter’s back and he’s better than ever. I don’t care what critics say, I think it’s a gem of a movie. The second installment of the adaptation of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series proved scarier than the first movie. The storyline had a deeper, darker feel to it. This is a trend you will find is consistent in all of Rowling’s books. As Harry grows older, the challenges become darker and more dangerous. Critics better get used to it and parents better start warning their young ones.

The kid actors are obviously older this time but that doesn’t take away from their charm as they bring to life these young characters. The seasoned veterans who portray the Hogwarts professors are just as effective, especially newcomer Kenneth Branagh (as Gilderoy Lockhart). It is sad to watch the late Richard Harris. He was the perfect Dumbledore and it will be terribly difficult to replace him. There are also the new characters who are just as memorable as the regulars. Dobby, the house-elf who’s come to warn Harry Potter of grave danger, is an impressive CGI animation with movements and facial expression that are so realistic. Another new character is Moaning Myrtle, the resident ghost in one of Hogwart’s toilet, who is irritatingly enjoyable and has got one of the funniest lines in the movie. Tom Riddle (wonderfully played by Christian Coulson) was charming and sinister at the same time. And no one could have played Lucious Malfoy better than Jason Isaacs. I look forward to seeing more of his villanous portrayal.

It’s true the movie is darker, maybe too dark for some kids. However, I don’t think critics are giving kids too much credit. I observed the kids around me in the theater and none of them were the least bit scared. As a matter of fact they are cheering characters on during the dark moments. Proof that kids are more mature than we give them credit for.

This will never be an Oscar contender type of film. It’s not the grand movie that Lord of the Rings is. It’s plot is simple and childish but isn’t this a movie for kids after all? If some people would just accept that and refrain from over-analyzing the way it’s done, they will hopefully enjoy it as much as millions of us do. It’s a long 2 hour, 40 minute movie but every minute is worth the ride, if you just keep an open mind and the bring your inner child along with you.