In 2001, Warner Bros. took a bit of a risk and began what would become one of the most popular and successful movie franchises of all-time. Now, nearly 10 years later, the end of “Harry Potter” has begun.
As “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” begins Harry, Ron and Hermione are out of Hogwarts and on their own. They know that the evil Voldemort is out to kill Harry so he and the other witches and wizards can take over the world. The three friends leave their families and friends behind and set out on a journey in which Harry has to find and destroy four pieces of Voldemort’s soul in order to defeat The Dark Lord.
“Deathly Hallows” is 2 1/2 hours long. The good news is it doesn’t seem that long, as the film moves along at a pretty good pace. However, overall, it’s still disappointing. There isn’t as much action as I was expecting (especially after seeing the trailers). Many of the scenes involve Harry, Ron and Hermione, or just two of them, simply looking at each other or talking…for a long time. And I was expecting some sort of battle sequence between Harry and Voldemort at some point, to set-up the big showdown in Part 2. Never happens.
There’s a predictable love triangle sub-plot, but fortunately it doesn’t last long, unlike the one in “The Half-Blood Prince” that goes on forever. Overall the story is pretty simple and easy to follow, even for non-diehards of the others films and the books. But if you’re going in expecting an exciting and entertaining adventure you’re in for a let-down.
As for the performances, everyone is solid. All the actors better know these characters by now. And, as usual, the special effects are outstanding.
“Deathly Hallows – Pt. 1” is rated PG-13 for some intense violence. But there’s nothing here that “Harry Potter” fans haven’t seen before so parents shouldn’t be scared to have their kids see it because of the rating. As for everyone else, if you’re a fan of the series you’ll probably love it. Non-fans (and why would you watch it if you haven’t been following the series) stay away, as there isn’t enough here to make a good stand-alone movie.
On The Official Kid Critic Report Card, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” gets a C+.
It’s not as good as I had hoped, but it’s better than last year’s “Half-Blood Prince” and does set the stage for a dramatic conclusion. Part 2 comes out on July 15. It’ll be in 3D, and it will include a big showdown between Harry and Voldemort. I wonder who’s going to win?