A Darker Harry Potter

Harry is back and fans are sure to race to the theater to see the beloved series played out on the big screen. The film is spectacular in countless traditions and fans will not be disappointed. The cinematography alone is worth the price of admission not to mention the breath-taking special effects. The British teens that have graced the pages of J.K. Rowling’s novels for the last decade all return, although a bit more grownup. In this sixth installment, (which is indeed a role for Harry that is of a more serious and dangerous nature) you’ll see the famous teens in full action as they flirt, talk of romance and attend school at Hogwarts. The same delightful Quidditch game is played with continued magical aura.  Fans will notice the halls at Hogwart’s School are darker and near the end of the film, the dining hall takes on quite a dramatic transformation.

Harry, played by Daniel Radcliffe, seems a bit unnerved at times due to the looming threat of Voldemort. He knows it will ultimately take more than his skills at Quidditch to defeat the Dark Lord yet he’s not sure of what will be required of him to have this deed happen. Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Emma Watson as Hermione Granger are the perfect pals to discuss Harry’s worries and concerns as a teen and ‘the chosen one.’ Romance is a big part of book six and we view the teens coming to terms with this passage of life. Hermione is overly jealous and needs constant hand-holding. Weasley is head-over-heels and acts giddy. Harry is determined to steal a kiss with his new attraction when he can get the chance.

The main story involves the close relationship of Dumbledore and Harry who are on the constant trail of Voldemort. Side stories involve the evil that is played out by Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange converging at the Diagon Alley Shop and convincing Severus Snape played byAlan Rickman to enter into an unbreakable vow with Draco Malfoy’s mother, Narcissa.  Dumbledore summons Harry to visit the London home of Professor Horace Slughorn played by Jim Broadbent, who has become somewhat of a recluse since his Hogwarts days. His memories of a young student named Tom Riddle, who grew up to become an evil-doer whose identity is divulged near the end of the book, are important and key to finding out Voldemort’s motives.

David Yates directs this sixth film with the main theme of ‘dark and gloomy.’ Some moments are cheery and entertaining but those are few and far between.  My favorite scenes are at Hogwart’s School when Harry finds out that his used book for the potion making class cleverly contains notes that will guide him through the ingredients and measurements with ease. These scenes contain the charm and magic of the beloved books and clearly stand out as to why the series is so popular with children as well as adults.

The ending takes place in an underground cavern which is full of suspense and wonderful art design.  Harry is truly challenged and we are on the edge of our seats.  This encounter has a sad ending and if you have read the book then you know what I’m talking about. All and all, this film exemplifies unbelievable directing, special effects and amazing art direction.

The older Harry Potter teens deliver and the magic remains fresh!

Sarah Adamson © 2009