Harry Potter A Must See

Harry Potter has taken the world by storm. “Harry Potter” author, J.K. Rowling, has brought magic into the homes of millions of people with the Harry Potter book series.

Now, Universal Studios and director Chris Columbus (“Home Alone I” and “Home Alone II,” “Stepmom,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” and “Bicentennial Man”) are bringing that magic to the big screen.

“From the first time I read ‘Harry Potter’ with my children, I fell in love with these wonderful characters and this world,” Columbus said. “I’m thrilled and honored to bring J.K. Rowling’s classic story to the screen.”

Just like Harry Potter himself, J.K. Rowling’s life has been one of fairytale status. Rowling was divorced and living on public assistance with her infant daughter. Rowling wrote “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” at a caf? table during her daughter’s naps. It was Harry Potter that rescued her.

“I was very low, and I had to achieve something. Without the challenge, I would have gone stark raving mad,” said Rowling. “The idea that we could have a child who escapes from the confines of the adult world and goes somewhere he has power, both literally and metaphorically, really appealed to me.” Apparently the idea appealed to millions of other people as well, because Harry Potter has become a national phenomenon.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” has been an instant success since its world premiere November 4, 2001. It currently holds the U.S. box office record of biggest single day gross with earnings of $32.8 million. Chris Columbus directed what could quite possibly be one of the best movies that has come along in quite some time and possibly one the greatest movies for children ever. This movie is rated PG due to a few scary scenes and a little adult language.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” takes you into a mystical world of muggles, trolls, three headed dogs, dragons, wizards, witches, flying broomsticks, and plenty of magic to spare. Harry Potter, portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe, is a young boy destined to do great things. The question is, will the great things be good or bad? Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) is Potter’s comical sidekick in the film. Grint, who has never been in a movie before, delivers a great performance, and he seems to be a fan favorite. Potter and Weasley befriend Hermione Granger (Emma Watson), who has also never been in a movie before. Both Grint and Watson deliver performances characteristic of someone who has been making movies for years.

The three children find themselves in Hogwarts, a school created to educate upcoming wizards and witches. As the movie progresses, it is apparent that there is no shortage of magical events. The special effects in this movie are absolutely astounding. Each scene is packed with potions, wand waving, broomstick riding, and people morphing into animals.

The movie seemed a little lengthy, even for the diehard ticket buyers. For people such as myself, who have never read the books and were watching the movie to see what all the fuss was about, it would have been nice to have a little more background information in the movie. The story line was a little jumpy, but the point was still made. Harry Potter is an orphan destined to defeat the evil being who has killed his parents; this is very clear. However, the characteristics and the identity of Harry’s nemesis are left a little vague. The classic battle between good and evil is mildly portrayed throughout the movie until the very end. This is when the three heroes, Potter, Weasley, and Granger, find themselves facing difficult challenges in order to guard the sacred Sorcerer’s Stone.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” is definitely destined to be a classic. The special effects and great cast are sure to make this movie a success. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” is now playing in theaters. If you don’t mind movies filled with great special effects, a lot of magic and mystery, then go see this film as soon as possible.

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Nov 30 2001. Filed under Features. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry