Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

[Mr.HyDe807]

http://www.cectheatres.com/assets/harry_potter_and_the_half_blood_prince_potter-_poster2.jpg

Directed By David Yates

Plot:Harry Potter's sixth year at Hogwarts turns out to be quite the exciting year. First off is the arrival of a new teacher at Hogwarts, Horace Slughorn, who is a bit more useful to Harry than he realizes. Next, Harry obtains a Potions book which used to belong to the very mysterious Half-Blood Prince. Harry finds that the Half-Blood Prince's ancient scribbles are written along the margins of almost every page, giving Harry advice on how to improve greatly on his Potions work, and also teaching him a few helpful (and dangerous) spells along the way.


I'm a fan of the series, but I don't really run out to check the film adaptations much. However, with CHUD's and the recent joblo review giving it pretty good reviews, my anticipation has definitely grown.

[Bourne101]

Reviews for this have been stellar so far, and I am a huge fan of the book and film series. I'll be there opening day.

[drc5145]

Reviews for this have been stellar so far, and I am a huge fan of the book and film series. I'll be there opening day.

This. I'm keeping my fingers crossed my local IMAX theater gets this because I'd love to see this sucker in IMAX.

[Reigh Kaufman]

I hope it dies on its knees and does that melting-into-a-puddle thing a la Stripe from Gremlins.

Greedy bastards.

[Tweek]

Eh, I've only seen one Harry Potter movie in full and that was the first. I really have no interest in the rest.


I hope it dies on its knees and does that melting-into-a-puddle thing a la Stripe from Gremlins.

Greedy bastards.

I take it that you're not a fan, then?

[ScaryFreak1827]

I'm a HUGE fan of both the books and the films and cannot wait for this film's release (FINALLY after that ridiculous delay from Warner Bros.) Already have my midnight showing tickets booked :D One week!

[Reigh Kaufman]

I take it that you're not a fan, then?

Not of the producers/studio.

Daniel and Emma are nice kids, though. Emma was on The Jonathon Ross show this week and was very elegant. I immediately proposed that Keira Knightley, Emma Watson and Saoirse Ronan would be perfect in a biography of the Brontë sisters in a couple of years time.


The producers, however, can fuck a duck.

[Nazgul]

I want to see this. I hope it's better than the last one.

[BakeTheMooCow]

The producers, however, can fuck a duck.

Why such animosity towards them? Do you think they take advantage of the young actors or something? I don't know. I've never given the studio/producers much thought.

Looking forward to the movie though. Will try to catch it on an early showing opening day to avoid the kids.

[Bourne101]

I think he is referring to the studio/producers moving the film from November 2008 to July 2009.

[Reigh Kaufman]

Why such animosity towards them? Do you think they take advantage of the young actors or something? I don't know. I've never given the studio/producers much thought.

Looking forward to the movie though. Will try to catch it on an early showing opening day to avoid the kids.

They completed this film and left it on the shelf for 9 months to increase revenue. No concessions made to the loyal fans (not me - I hate the films) who had been anticipating it in November. They did this around the same time they decided that the final film would be two parts, despite the fact they have consistently managed to drop entire characters and subplots in the past. So a one film finale would hardly be beyond them. Money talks, et cetera. All the main actors were kept on one film contracts up until the fifth movie (the two part finale needed rethought), leading to the producers threatening to sack Emma Watson as a sacrificial lamb in the week before renogotiations.

I just don't like them.

[BakeTheMooCow]

I don't blame them for trying to milk the films as long as they can, since Rowling's books have stopped and the franchise is a guaranteed money maker. And Watson will still make more money per film than I will make in a lifetime so I don't feel too bad for her. It does suck for the hardcore fans but they are an impatient, petulant bunch anyway. If they had cut a large chunk of the final book when adapting it to screen, the fans would have flipped their lids.

I'm not a fan of the movies either, except "Prisoner of Azkaban" which was very good. I'm hearing good things about this one though.

[athf1980]

I'm there. the last movie was solid

[Bahs]

Was not impressed with OotP movie, but this one looks much better. ill probably see it opening night with a few of my friends

[sbunn10]

I enjoyed all of the movies somewhat, but the only that was really great was Prisoner of Azkaban. This one looks amazing, and it's encouraging to hear the good reviews. I for one am happy that they're making the last book into two movies, there isn't a dull moment in it... there's no filler, just non-stop shit going down.

[Abbie Normal]

The trailers and TV spots look awesome. I am totally thinking this one will be way better than the last. I don't know why they are opening on a Wed. Does not make sense to me. They always have huge opening weekends. Why water down a bit by opening on a Wed? I totally understand why TF2 did it.

[ilovemovies]

IMO, the marketing people have not been doing a good job with this movie. I should be way more excited about this movie than I am and I blame the underwhelming trailers/tv spots since I've enjoyed all of the previous Potter flicks.

I'm sure the movie will be good, but the trailers/tv spots not doing their job and the PG rating have made me far less excited about this movie than I should be.

[Bourne101]

I wouldn't worry about the PG rating at all. Some reviews say it's definitely worthy of a PG-13 and is as dark or darker than the two entries in the series that received a PG-13.

[jolanar]

IMO, the marketing people have not been doing a good job with this movie. I should be way more excited about this movie than I am and I blame the underwhelming trailers/tv spots since I've enjoyed all of the previous Potter flicks.


I agree. I almost forgot it was still coming out this summer since I had barely heard anything about it. It's still going to make oodles and oodles of money though.


This is really the only summer flick that has me really excited this year. Everything else has been a pretty big let down so far. I really don't see this disappointing, especially with all the great reviews it has been getting.

[Heisenberg]

The First was good
The Second was decent
The Third was amazing
The Fourth was great
The Fifth was great

I will definitely be seeing this, looks the best so far.

[Abbie Normal]

The First was good
The Second was decent
The Third was amazing
The Fourth was great
The Fifth was great

I will definitely be seeing this, looks the best so far.

First 10/10
Second 8/10
Third 9/10
Fourth 7/10
Fifth 5/10

[Jig Saw 123]

I think they continue to get especially better with each entry and of course darker and more into adult territory. This was always my most anticipated film of the summer and unlike the others (TF2 and Terminator Salvation) I know this one won't disappoint.

And I have to strongly disagree with Abbie's ratings of the films.

[SpikeDurden]

By far my most anticipated film of the year, I'm going absolutely bonkers mad waiting for this. And I know it will not disappoint. Love this series to death.

[g1ng3rsnap9ed]

Yeah, the marketing for this movie sucks. They make it out to be a cutsie-patootsie teen romance, and from all that I remember they hardly address the fact that it's a Harry Potter movie and has magic!!! I'm still amped for this though because I'm a dweeb. :D

[BlownCamaro]

Yes, this movie makes the pants tight.

[Ender]

No offense to Jenna Busch, but I don't really trust a Harry Potter fangirl to provide an objective review of the film. That's not meant as a knock, everyone brings their own perspective to each movie, shaped and influenced by their own past and lives, but being less of a fan myself, I doubt that her point of view and mine can really converge when it comes to this movie.

Like many, I am discouraged by how much the last Potter movie sucked the root and have little faith in Yates as a director after that snooze fest. The ad campaign has been uninspired, and its clear at this point that they know they don't even have to try, an attitude I hope hasn't bled over into the film itself. The casting is stellar as usual, but the nature of the beast being what it is, our combined ensemble of the greatest living British actors will be put on the back burner in favor of our young leads, and if they have fifteen minute's worth of combined screentime on their own it'll be amazing.

I've no conception of the behind the scenes drama apparently swirling about this film, but ultimately it seems irrelevant to the quality of the movie itself. Considering how hit and miss this whole franchise is, I never have any idea what to expect. For the life of me I'll never know what people see in PRISONER OF AZKABAN, being, as it was, a flacid, confused, alogical mess of bad CGI, questionable writing, and truly bizarre plot resolutions. On the other hand, GOBLET OF FIRE was surprisingly sound, having to it an underlying structure and gradually buliding momentum that the other films generally lack. I don't know if its the fault of the books or the screenwriters, but I'm amazed by how consistently the creative minds behind these movies fail to understand that a plot must advance over the course of an entire story, you can't just set up a premise, allude to it vaguely over the course of three hours while playing out unrelated vignettes, then resolve it in the last twenty minutes.

[Bahs]

another thing i would like to add is how much i appreciate the theme song getting more and more epic. it first started out as like a jingle, now its like a full blown orchestra

[Strider]

Honestly, I'm not terribly interested in this franchise anymore. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix was a complete bore, a misfire, and the worst film in the series; it made the Chris Columbus-directed installments (which I actually found to be entertaining) look like masterpieces of cinema. Furthermore, I couldn't be more stupefied by Warner Brothers' decision to allow David Yates to direct The Half-Blood Prince and the two parts of The Deathly Hallows. What do they see him? I see absolutely nothing, and I have zero faith in his abilities as a director. Personally, I think the WB were fools to not re-hire Alfonso Cuaron, the director responsible for the series' only shining moment -- The Prisoner of Azkaban. The marketing campaign for The Half-Blood Prince has been rather ho-hum, but like Ender said, they don't have to put much effort into said campaign, because the film will be a monster hit at the box-office. If not for the amazing ensemble cast, I would avoid The Half-Blood Prince like the plague. I will see it, without any expectations whatsoever.

Strider

[chinton]

I don't really undertand the criticism OOTP gets when Goblet was far mroe ponderous and dull and the first two film were just terrible in every way. I thought OOTP al leat moved and had some great visuals.

[jolanar]

Ya I was really disappointed when I found out Yates was going to be directing the rest of the films. One of the cool things about the series could have been a different director for each movie.

I too was fairly let down with OOTP, but I think that may have had a little to do with how amazing Goblet of Fire was. It was a hard act to follow. While OOTP is my least favorite movie of the series, it's still solid. I also suppose it's fair to mention that OOTP was probably my least favorite of the books.

[Danger^Cart]

Can I watch this without having seen OOTP?

[Bourne101]

Can I watch this without having seen OOTP?

I would say no. You should probably watch it.

[chinton]

Wow clearly I'm in the minority here. I had the same problem with Goblet that I had with the first two. They adhered to the books relatively well but I thought Goblet was just as dull, stodgy, and bland. So bland that I keep forgetting who directed it. I thought Yates brought a much more ditictive voice to the Order of the Phoenix much like Cuaron did.

[sbunn10]

I agree with most that the third was the best, a solid 8 or 8.5/10. I'm with you Chinton, the fourth is my least favorite of the series. I liked Order of the Pheonix, but I didn't love it. The first two were really kiddy due to the age of the characters. I loved them when they came out, but I don't enjoy them too much now.


From what I've seen, this looks like it has the potential to be the best of the series, which is good, b/c it was probably my favorite book.

[ilovemovies]

To me there wasn't really much of a difference between Order of the Phoenix and Goblet of Fire. Both are pretty solid flicks.

Though I will say my favorite Potter flick is actually The Chamber of Secrets which seems to be underrated here. However, I will also say though that Prizoner of Azkaban is actually a film that seems to get better with each viewing so who knows if that over takes Chamber of Secrets as my favorite.

[MisterTwister]

The Potter flicks keep getting better and better for me and I loved Order of the Phoenix.

I'll be seeing Half Blood Prince in theaters and can't wait.

[Bourne101]

Though I will say my favorite Potter flick is actually The Chamber of Secrets which seems to be underrated here. However, I will also say though that Prizoner of Azkaban is actually a film that seems to get better with each viewing so who knows if that over takes Chamber of Secrets as my favorite.

Wow, 100% ditto. Chamber of Secrets is my favorite in the series, and every time I watch Azkaban it gets better (though still at the moment not good enough to match Secrets).

I watched the first one last night for the umpteenth time, and while on past re-watches it seemed to have lost its touch each time since seeing it for the first time in theatres, this time around I really enjoyed it. Not as much as seeing it for the first time of course, but I enjoyed it much more than I have in the past couple of years.

[Ender]

Respectfully, I've gotta disagree with the consensus view here, I thought GOBLET OF FIRE was a very fun movie thanks to the novelty of the format (ie, our hero is assigned a sequence of tasks at the beginning and we watch them progress through them), the strength of the finale, and some of the better action sequences in the franchise.

ORDER OF THE PHOENIX, on the other hand, was just unbearable. Nothing. Happened! I mean, nothing! This movie has the same problem as PRISONER OF AZKABAN, the story consists almost entirely of:

Reel 1: OMG, Voldemort is out there!

Reel 2: OMG, Voldemort is out there!

Reel 3: OMG, Voldemort is out there!

Reel 4: There's Voldemort! *end movie*

For reasons completely incomprehensible to me, we spent four entire movies building up to our great villain, and then instead of putting him to use the movie's prime antagonist was a woman in a pink shawl. I found the political sniping and backbiting that made up the spine of the story boring, and the finale was anticlimactic. Of course, this is all because that's the stuff that happened in the book...but then, it's not a very good book. Neither is "Half-Blood Prince", for that matter.

I had high hopes for the DEATHLY HALLOWS movies in the future, but is it true Yates is working on those? What happened to Guillermo del Torro?

[ilovemovies]

What happened to Guillermo del Torro?


He's a little busy with a small indie nobody has heard of called The Hobbit.

[Ender]

Okay, so how about we just put Peter Jackson on THE HOBBIT and move del Torro to HARRY POTTER and put Yates on...um, well, I'm sure Asylum Films could use him for something...

[ScaryFreak1827]

Okay, so how about we just put Peter Jackson on THE HOBBIT and move del Torro to HARRY POTTER and put Yates on...um, well, I'm sure Asylum Films could use him for something...

David Yates IMO did a fantastic job on Order of the Phoenix (and from reviews it seems the next installment) so I don't see why he wouldn't be capable of covering the last two books? Sure it's more epic than previous entries but I love his style (like what Cuaron also brought to the series) and his ability to remain both faithful to the story while not being afraid of taking creative liberties. The decision to split the Deathly Hallows in two was a fantastic decision as it allows more room for the story to be told and some of the more spectacular chapters of the book to be included. Yates seems like he's more than fully capable of covering an entry in a series he is now comfortable in.

[bigred760]

Will be watching this puppy in IMAX. Was not overly impressed with Order of the Phoenix, thought it was rushed, too short, and didn't include many details. I'm encouraged by the good reviews coming out for this new one though.

[adamjohnson]

Okay, so how about we just put Peter Jackson on THE HOBBIT and move del Torro to HARRY POTTER and put Yates on...um, well, I'm sure Asylum Films could use him for something...

The third act of Order of the Phoenix is the reason David Yates has these jobs. Future films are going to be much heavier on action and the dueling scene with Dumbledore and Voldy is amazing.

[ericdraven]

The third act of Order of the Phoenix is the reason David Yates has these jobs. Future films are going to be much heavier on action and the dueling scene with Dumbledore and Voldy is amazing.

I agree with this.

[adamjohnson]

The third act of Order of the Phoenix is the reason David Yates has these jobs. Future films are going to be much heavier on action and the dueling scene with Dumbledore and Voldy is amazing.

In addition, David Yates might be in-no-small-way responsible for the emergence of several of these young kids into legit actors.

First, you have Daniel Radcliffe standing up and yelling "LOOK AT ME!", which, as I've said before, was the first moment in five films I no longer considered him a child actor.

Now, you have reports that Tom Felton, who plays Draco Malfoy, gives a damn near Oscar worthy performance as his turn as a conflicted Draco.

I do not think this is a coincidence.

[dellamorte dellamore]

How many films are left , 200 , please let it end already . Just wrap everything up in the next film so the non fans don't have to suffer one of these every year

[Danger^Cart]

How many films are left , 200 , please let it end already . Just wrap everything up in the next film so the non fans don't have to suffer one of these every year

Not to rant, but I've never understood this. If you don't like the Harry Potter films, than why not just ignore them? Does the simple release of an HP film hurt your constitution that much? I don't like any of that Twilight bullshit, so guess what I did, I didn't fucking watch it. I won't watch the sequel either, and I won't click on any news about it, and I certainly won't visit a thread about it on an internet forum and bitch about its release.

I'll just ignore it.

[adamjohnson]

Not to rant, but I've never understood this. If you don't like the Harry Potter films, than why not just ignore them? Does the simple release of an HP film hurt your constitution that much? I don't like any of that Twilight bullshit, so guess what I did, I didn't fucking watch it. I won't watch the sequel either, and I won't click on any news about it, and I certainly won't visit a thread about it on an internet forum and bitch about its release.

I'll just ignore it.

This HP film isnt even getting alot of press, unlike that Twishit.

[Ender]

Well, like I said, everyone's opinion is equally valid. But if you ask me, ORDER OF THE PHOENIX was a piss-poor movie. Already handicapped by being based on a pretty weak book, I thought it was flacid, dull, and washed out. I don't know how a movie can seem so choppy while at the same time having almost nothing going on, but damn if it didn't happen.

Respectfully, I also have to disagree with the view that the action finale was a high point of either the movie or the series. The Ministry of Magic looked like a giant, messy closet, and at no point did it pass for anything more than what it was; a cheap, obvious, unimpressive set. Looked like a soundstage with the lights off, almost as though they meant to do the whole thing in front of a greenscreen but then at the last minute said "Nah, fuck it, let's just drag out old furniture, hang some black curtains over everything and call it a day".

The spell fights was well-shot, but the sequence was over in a less than a minute and really consisted of little more than a dark room with people yelling and some fireworks going off. The long-anticipated duel between Dumbeldore and Voldemort was cool...but too brief, and made our heroes look passive and weak (not to mention the ill wisdom of shunting your main character to the sidelines and having him, once again, have to be rescued by more powerful forces, although I realize that plot problems are not Yates' fault). Too much time spent on the "possession" sequence, which was just hyperactive editing, overbearing soundtrack (which I believe we've heard before?), and not the best physical performance by Radcliff (although I don't really fault him).

Worst of all...



***SPOILERS!!!***


Sirius' death scene was just flat. Besides it not at all being clear what the hell even happened, this hit every possible cliche: the dramatic pause, the dawning realization on our hero's face, the tired, "somber" music cues, the muted yelling (I'm particularly sick of that one), etc. I could have directed this worn-out dreck in my sleep.


***END SPOILER***


The abrupt end of it all was par for course. You couldn't possibly have a more artificial resolution than this: All characters simply walk on or off the set when you're called for (again, partly the fault of the book, which features a ludicrous number of convenient entrances and exits at this phase, but Yates scarcely did a thing to try to disguise it. He might as well have had a literal due ex machina crane just lowering everyone in and out), now everyone stand around just long enough for the critical plot juncture to pass, now all clear out, now cue our 20-second end scene with the canned maxim about the value of friendship (what is this, an ICE AGE movie all of a sudden? Can we possibly get anymore vague and maudlin?), now roll credit.

Christ, I know the movie was long enough already, but I certainly hope Yates dwells a tad longer on the closing of PRINCE, not to mention doing a better (and at least slightly original) take on "The Event".

[MisterTwister]

David Yates did a fantastic job IMO and I'm happy he is directing the rest of the films.

[Mr.HyDe807]

Even though I saw the Order of the Phoenix once, I enjoyed that Yates did keep some of Rowling's little instances in the book, but it sort of suffered the movie as a whole. You never really got invested towards the people who had only one little shining moment in the rest of the movie series, and then they get the screen time that only feels sort of half assed and not really fulfilled enough. The same goes towards the crucial plot points that are directed from the novel as well.

That's just me though, I'm pretty stoked about Half Blood Prince!

[adamjohnson]

I do hope for more close ups of Helena Bonham Carter though.

[FireCaptain4]

Jazzed about the 153 minute runtime! I love that this one is being referred to as the funniest entry in the franchise-- I remember the book having many great humorous moments involving Ron.

[sbunn10]

Jazzed about the 153 minute runtime! I love that this one is being referred to as the funniest entry in the franchise-- I remember the book having many great humorous moments involving Ron.

I am also excited about said runtime. It seems that in the past they've cut many things out when the film could have gone on much longer.

[FireCaptain4]

The Ebert speaketh:

The climactic scene in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" takes place in one of those underground caverns with a lake and an ominous gondola as the means of transportation, popularized by "The Phantom of the Opera." At first I thought -- no gondola! But then, one appeared, dripping and hulking. In another movie I might have grinned, but you know what? By that point, I actually cared.

Yes, this sixth chapter is a darker, more ominous Harry Potter film, with a conclusion that suggests more alarmingly the deep dangers Harry and his friends have gotten themselves into. There was always a disconnect between Harry's enchanting school days at Hogwarts and the looming threat of Voldemort. Presumably it would take more than skills at Quidditch to defeat the dreaded Dark Lord.

In one of the opening scenes, we find Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) late at night in a cafe of the London Underground, reading a copy of the Daily Prophet which poses the question: Is Harry Potter the Chosen One? By the film's end, he acknowledges that he has, indeed, been chosen to face down Voldemort (whose name should properly rhyme with the French word for "death," mort; also, since their word vol can have meanings such as "thief" and "steal," Lord Voldemort is most ominously named).

Harry is distracted from his paper, however, by an instant flirtation with the young waitress, a saucy cutie who informs him, although he asked only with his eyes, that she gets off work at 11. She indeed waits for him on the platform, but the Chosen One must respond to his higher calling from Dumbledore (Michael Gambon), who either materializes, gets off a train, or has a pied-a-terre right there in the Underground. I for one will be disappointed if that waitress (I think her name is Elarica Gallagher) doesn't turn up again in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," whose two parts will conclude the series in 2010 and 2011.

That will be none too soon if Harry doesn't want to steal up on the "Twilight" franchise, since he and his friends, especially poor Ron Weasley, have definitively entered adolescence. Even now he seems to be entertaining thoughts of snoggling with Ron's sister Ginny (Bonnie Wright). Yes, Harry, so recently a round-eyed little lad, will soon be one of Hogwarts' Old Boys.

Director David Yates suggests the transition in subtle ways, one of them by making Hogwarts itself seem darker, emptier and more ominous than ever before. Its cheery corridors are now replaced by gloomy Gothic passages, and late in the film an unspeakable fate befalls the beloved Dining Hall at the hands of Bellatrix Lestrange (Helena Bonham Carter), who seems to function principally as a destructive vixen, but no doubt has more ominous goals.

The mission for which Dumbledore summoned Harry at the outset was to visit the London home of Professor Horace Slughorn (Jim Broadbent), who has become reclusive since his Hogwarts days, but is now urgently needed along with his memories of the young student Tom Riddle, who grew up to become the man whose name should rhyme with Death. Dumbledore hopes they can discover a secret vulnerability of Voldemort's, and that is why they find themselves in the underground cavern. When this possible key is discovered, I promise you I'm not spoiling anything by observing that its basic message is "to be continued."

There are really two story strands here. One involves the close working relationship of Dumbledore and Harry on the trail of Voldemort. The other involves everything else: romance and flirtation, Quidditch, a roll call of familiar characters (Hagrid, Snape, McGonagall, Wormtail, Lupin, Filch, Flitwick and Malfoy, whose name could be French for "bad faith"). With names like that, how do they get through Commencement without snickering?

Some of these characters are reprised just as reminders. The giant Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane), for example, turns up primarily to allow us to observe, look who's turned up! Snape, as played by Alan Rickman, is given much more dialogue, primarily I suspect because he invests it with such macabre pauses. Radcliffe's Potter is sturdy and boring, as always; it's not easy being the hero with a supporting cast like this. Michael Gambon steals the show as Dumbledore, who for a man his age certainly has some new tricks, so to speak, up his sleeve.

I admired this Harry Potter. It opens and closes well, and has wondrous art design and cinematography as always, only more so. "I'm just beginning to realize how beautiful this place is," Harry sighs from a high turret. The middle passages spin their wheels somewhat, hurrying about to establish events and places not absolutely essential. But those scenes may be especially valued by devoted students of the Potter saga. They may also be the only ones who fully understand them; ordinary viewers may be excused for feeling baffled some of the time.

[ScaryFreak1827]

I'm glad to see Ebert liked it. He seems to be pretty favorable towards the films (with the exception of the last installment which he only gave a 2.5) and it seems Half-Blood Prince is no different.

Wow I realize there's only 29 reviews so far but a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes is promising.

[BlownCamaro]

I thought I was going to see it on Wed but the wife can not miss work, then I thought this Saturday but then forgot we have a family gathering with family members from way out of town so we can not miss that. So sad!! I want my potter now!!

[MightyCelestial]

That Prof. Snape......
oh how I loathe him......

[drc5145]

I'm pumped right now because I'm seeing this movie tonight! :) I got a screening pass for this one thursday and I just cleared my day so I can get there 2 1/2 hours early and get my spot in line. I want to be extra sure I get into the screening.

[ScaryFreak1827]

I'm pumped right now because I'm seeing this movie tonight! :) I got a screening pass for this one thursday and I just cleared my day so I can get there 2 1/2 hours early and get my spot in line. I want to be extra sure I get into the screening.

Napoleon Dynamite: "LUCKY!"

[bigred760]

I'm pumped right now because I'm seeing this movie tonight! :) I got a screening pass for this one thursday and I just cleared my day so I can get there 2 1/2 hours early and get my spot in line. I want to be extra sure I get into the screening.

LOL. I have to do that too for screenings. I'm envious. Hope you enjoy.

I'm encouraged by the 2 1/2 hour running time. That's 20 minutes longer than OotP.

[ilovemovies]

I'm glad to see Ebert liked it. He seems to be pretty favorable towards the films (with the exception of the last installment which he only gave a 2.5) and it seems Half-Blood Prince is no different.

Wow I realize there's only 29 reviews so far but a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes is promising.

I thought I remember Ebert criticizing the Potter flicks for getting darker and he said in the previous film that the franchise is losing it's magic?

I thought I rembered that he said that. Is my memory not correct?

[sbunn10]

I like Ebert, but he's been giving some crazy reviews in the last year or so. Not crazy in that I disagree with his opinions, but he's gone on rants about the silliest and most unimportant things in the world, and often given four stars out like it's nothing. I do put some stock in his opinion though, but less than I used to.

But considering that there's 40 fresh and 1 rotten, I'd say he's with the majority opinion. It's good to hear that so many are enjoying the film.

[FireCaptain4]

That Prof. Snape......
oh how I loathe him......

I love Snape.

http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk202/TheDeadMayTasteBad/2005_harry_potter_and_the_goblet-1.jpg

[sbunn10]

I love Snape.

http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk202/TheDeadMayTasteBad/2005_harry_potter_and_the_goblet-1.jpg

he is a great character.. and I'm sure people have said this many times on these forums, but I haven't yet.. Alan Rickman is SO perfect for the role, and has been excellent in every Potter film so far.

[ilovemovies]

Has Alan Rickman ever given a bad performance? He's been awesome in everything from Die Hard to Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves to Dogma. And solid in the Harry Potter flicks.

[drc5145]

Just got back from it and I'm still dwelling on it a bit but I'll say it was pretty damn good. I'd say right now...I'd consider it the 2nd or 3rd best movie of the series so far. It's been some time since I read the book so I'm not all that clear of what was left out. Some of the sub-plots like a new love interest for Ron were pretty funny to see develop and what happened.

Rating wise...I'm swinging between 8 and 8.5/10. It was a great and solid effort from David Yates. I can't think of any really weak aspect that stands out right now at the moment. It's definitely better than the previous movie.

For those who've read the book, they pretty much nailed the big ending. When it happened, it was a pretty silent theater that seemed as if the air got sucked out of it, if for a brief bit. The way the movie developed, it leaves me pretty excited to see how Yates handles the Deathly Hallows.

EDIT: I should add most of my audience seemed to be happy with how it is, as it got a pretty good applause once credits rolled.

[FireCaptain4]

For those who've read the book, they pretty much nailed the big ending. When it happened, it was a pretty silent theater that seemed as if the air got sucked out of it, if for a brief bit. The way the movie developed, it leaves me pretty excited to see how Yates handles the Deathly Hallows.


Does the certain demise in this film last longer than Sirius' did in Order...? In other words, do they dwell on the impact of the death for a bit instead of just having it "happen" and then move on.

he is a great character.. and I'm sure people have said this many times on these forums, but I haven't yet.. Alan Rickman is SO perfect for the role, and has been excellent in every Potter film so far.

Right you are, and Rickman can't be praised enough. I find that many of my favorite moments in the movies involve Snape and him doing something either badass or quirky.

[drc5145]

Does the certain demise in this film last longer than Sirius' did in Order...? In other words, do they dwell on the impact of the death for a bit instead of just having it "happen" and then move on.



Definitely...




*SPOILERS*




After Snape hits Dumbledore with the death spell, Dumbledore gets knocked off the tower and falls to the ground. After Harry attempts to go after Snape and his crew, he comes back to the main campus and you see him coming through a huge crowd, only to see they've gathered around Dumbledore's body. Harry goes to it, embraces it and closes Dumbledore's eyes. You see some students shedding tears like Ginny. Then Professor Mcgonagall (sp?) raises her wand with the tip lit up. The rest of the crowd follows. All the lights end up overtaking a cloud in the form of a skull in the sky, that formed earlier, and break it up. The last shots are of Dumbledore's face and Harry crying in Ginny's arms.


There's also a scene later where Harry enters Dumbledore's room and hold his wand for a bit. McGonagall comes in and lets Harry know she and other teachers are open to talking to him if needed. Harry silently walks past her, Mcgonagall mentions that Dumbledore always though of Harry as a pretty special and important person to him. Harry looks at her a bit down and grimly and walks off.





*END SPOILERS*




Apologies if that sounds a touch messy and rushed but that's the gist of it.

[FireCaptain4]

drc, that's truly awesome. :cool:

[ScaryFreak1827]

I thought I remember Ebert criticizing the Potter flicks for getting darker and he said in the previous film that the franchise is losing it's magic?

I thought I rembered that he said that. Is my memory not correct?

Yeah he prefers the "light-heartedness" of the first two films over the later installments but he still praised films three and four for the growing maturity of the young cast and aspects of the story. Order of the Phoenix just seemed lesser in his opinion (and Half-Blood Prince by a slight amount.)

Nice drc, I'm glad they did "the scene" justice.

[sbunn10]

Has Alan Rickman ever given a bad performance? He's been awesome in everything from Die Hard to Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves to Dogma. And solid in the Harry Potter flicks.

True..

It's good to see you enjoyed it drc, I'm seeing it Wednesday!

[daddiefatsacks]

got to see a screening of it tonight, not a big fan of ANY of these movies, but i really enjoyed this one, its shed the kiddy image and its definitely more intense and dark.

8/10

[MightyCelestial]

Alan Rickman is SO perfect for the role, and has been excellent in every Potter film so far.
Agreed.
I also think that Hagrid, Professor McGonagall, Sirius, Prof. Trelawney, Wormtail & Luna Lovegood were all really excellent choices for their respective roles.
And Richard Harris was perfect as Dumbledore.

[adamjohnson]

Agreed.
I also think that Hagrid, Professor McGonagall, Sirius, Prof. Trelawney, Wormtail & Luna Lovegood were all really excellent choices for their respective roles.
And Richard Harris was perfect as Dumbledore.

Its a shame Maggie Smith might not live to complete these films. Her role is minor but she fits is so perfectly.

(she became very ill during Half Blood Prince)

[FireCaptain4]

Guys/Gals: on RottenTomatoes, there is only one negative review for the Half-Blood Prince, so I had to check it out.

Don't fret, this "critic" is a joke. Their name is Fiore Mastracci, and here's some of their ratings for comparison:

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince-- 3/10
Revolutionary Road-- 3/10
The Spirit-- 9/10
Punisher: War Zone-- 9/10
Burn After Reading-- 3/10
Pineapple Express-- 0/10
The Dark Knight-- 15/10

A 15/10? Really?

No shit, check their page for yourself: http://www.rottentomatoes.com/author/author-10771/

The other 98% of the critic community, thus far, dig it.

[ScaryFreak1827]

Yeah I read that ridiculous "review" and clearly the reviewer has no prior knowledge of the series. They refer to the Dark Mark as "Voldemort's face in the sky" :D

Btw I wonder why Rotten Tomatoes is taking so long to count up all the reviews. There's at least 70 now but only 41 are counted:confused:

[Fergus]

Got to see a screening last night and I must say its the best Potter film since Prisoner of Azkaban. Yeah, it does add a few things but I don't have issues with their inclusion, although more hardcore fans might. There is more humor in this one than I can remember from any other Potter film and that was a good balance to the overall air of darkness. I might even go as far to say it was better than UP, for the best summer movie crown, but I'll have to think about that. 8.5/10

[Bahs]

heading out at midnight to see this one. will post my review when i get back

[FireCaptain4]

I've read a few more of the negative reviews on RT and they all sound like they're written by nine year-olds who've never heard of Harry Potter in the first place.

With 100+ reviews, it still stands at 95%. Many of the positive reviews refer to this as the best Potter film yet.

[detective mills]

Just came back from a screening. I think it's the second best after POA, but only time will tell.

8, possibly 8.5/10

[Ender]

Just a sidenote, but does anyone else support an embargo on the gratuitous use of the word "dark" as an adjective in movie reviews? It's rapidly become one of those "zero calorie" words that means effectively nothing anymore. We really must halt the spread of this mindset that leads directors to believe they can make their movie intelligent, nuanced, and dramatic just by turning out the lights and making the sets very drab.

[mutant_gorilla]

I thought the film was mostly good. It started out fresh and felt like they got the nature of the "Harry Potter" world down very well. As it went on, towards the end of the 2nd act, it seemed to be growing thin. I felt the focus disappeared from the actual plot for way too long, and then they thrust us back into it, for a climactic cave battle, and suddenly, very cop-out-ish ending.

Plus, Hermione and Ron did close to nothing for the 2nd film in a row.

Like I said. It was mostly good, but lacked a whole lot in it's ending.

7/10

[adamjohnson]

Fantastic. The most breathtaking Potter film yet.

[SpikeDurden]

I am tired and lazy, so I will just post my review from another forum:

A stunning film. A great adaptation of a wonderful book that is also a mature, funny, beautiful film regardless of the series or source material. Felton, Gambon, Broadbent, Rickman, and the Trio are all fantastic and bring real weight and chemistry to the proceedings. The last half hour literally had me shaking, my hand covering my mouth. And I've read the book many, many times. I know what was going to happen and it still shocked and moved me. Yates and Delbonell and Hooper have really done transcendent work here. Visually sumptuous doesn't even begin to cover it, with simply incredible blocking and staging and dramatic flow that mixed with the clever script make this film a virtuoso of storytelling. Hogwarts and this world and the magic feel so real and alive in this film, the most since PoA. And the humor was spot-on, which creates for a very lovely mix with the melancholy and terror of the third act. In many ways I want to go through each and every scene of the film and make an in depth analysis of why it works and the right choices that Yates and co have made, but I will resist. In the way the best novel to film adaptations do, Yates and Kloves have taken the narrative and details and made it purely cinematic, an entirely different language than that of literature. I have complete faith in the team for DH and I know that film will be truly satisfying. As was this one.

If I am not mistaken, this has just surpassed PoA as my favorite of the series. And that is saying a LOT, because I have held PoA in VERY VERY high regard since its release, considering it not only my favorite of the series, but simply one of my favorite films period.

9/10

[ScaryFreak1827]

Well the first fifteen minutes were good... then the film shut off :mad::mad: A lot of people were pissed (myself included) especially after waiting forty minutes for them to get the film back on only for it to shut off again. Damn. We all got free movie passes though and I plan on seeing it tonight.

[Bourne101]

Damn, midnight showing last night had been sold out for a week and all showings today are sold out. Going to get tickets for tomorrow soon.

[Mr.HyDe807]

Damn, I definitely gotta check this out tomorrow.

[BlownCamaro]

Man. Just read that is made 20 million on midnight showings alone which breaks the record held by Dark Knight.

[Tonkuro]

So, I went and watched this last night at one of the midnight showings. It was pretty much the best one yet. Everything was really well done, and never over the top IMO.

BIG PROPS to the actors portraying Draco/Lavendar. Fucking great performances.

I like how Yates handled "the big scene". I actually wish it was done this way in the book as well, much more subdued and dramatic to me.

Big points for having the trailer for Where The Wild Things Are before. I always get a huge smile watching that and every adult in there whooped when the Wild Things appeared. 9/10

[FireCaptain4]

Any official numbers on the midnight opening yet?

[Bourne101]

Any official numbers on the midnight opening yet?

$22.2 million

[sbunn10]

Just got back, I absolutely loved it. What makes the books so enjoyable is that they strike a balance between humor, action, and tragedy, and I believe this film achieved such a balance better than any of its predecessors. It flows extremely well, and the 2 and a half hours flew by. The acting and score were both excellent, but the look of the film is what impressed me most... it's quite beautiful.

I can't wait for the next.
8.5 or 9/10.. I'll decide after a rewatch.

[Bahs]

Went last night. The theater i went to announced that it was the most tickets they ever sold on a midnight showing. cool beans.

Ok, it was probably my second favorite behind Azkaban.
THE GOOD:
-good balance between humor and ominous-ness
-very pretty and stylized. great cinematography, some scenes were beautiful
-love the characters, Slughorn, Snape, and Dumbledore
THE BAD
-ending felt rushed and was not epic as a remember from the book
-the acting of the kids is a bit sub-par
-little bit too overlong-i know they got to capture all they can from the book, but some parts did drag

overall i was very entertained for the most part and felt like it was a solid film

A generous 8/10

[FireCaptain4]

Ok, so the lack of an epic climax in the movie is really a reflection on the source material. For those of you that read the novel, you know better than anybody-- Half-Blood Prince didn't quite have the dynamic conclusions that it's predecessors did (then again, I've only read books 4-7). However, I have heard the funeral is left out at the end, which could have been great to see (wonder if they’re planning on placing that in the seventh movie?).

[sbunn10]

I was thinking the same thing about the funeral.. Considering that they're splitting the 7th into to two films, and the book begins with shit happening immediately, the funeral could be a good opening.

[dfd3657]

Wonderful movie. It seems like these movies get better and better with each installment. I can't wait to see how fucking epic the next two are (or should I say one?). Did anyone else's theater EXPLODE with pre-teen shrieks when they aired the Twilight New Moon trailer? My friend yelled "Boo!" and some teeny bopper in front of him shrieked "SHUT UP!" at the top of her lungs. XD

[FireCaptain4]

Did anyone else's theater EXPLODE with pre-teen shrieks when they aired the Twilight New Moon trailer? My friend yelled "Boo!" and some teeny bopper in front of him shrieked "SHUT UP!" at the top of her lungs. XD

Just reading that pisses me off. You should have gone Jake La Motta on her ass and dragged her all around the theater.

[athf1980]

4.5/5

so far the best movie this summer that is not from Pixar. Just great storytelling here. for a pg movie this was quite dark. This could be my fav. Potter movie after I see it again.

[Bahs]

Just reading that pisses me off. You should have gone Jake La Motta on her ass and dragged her all around the theater.

lmfao. Don't we all want to do that to those Twilight girls?

[dannywalker17]

First 10/10
Second 8/10
Third 9/10
Fourth 7/10
Fifth 5/10

Are you serious???



Anyway, I saw the midnight screening. It's funny how I went from refusing to see these at all, to reluctantly watching the first two on DVD and thinking they were watchable. Then they slowly got better and now this is either the best of the series or the second best. The major event at the end was handled extremely well. The cinematography is stunning as well.

8/10 or A-

[ScaryFreak1827]

I finally got the chance to watch the entire film (without it cutting off fifteen minutes in :rolleyes:) and I must say it was fantastic! Completely worth the wait. It's so rare for a film series to get better with each installment but Potter has had no problem achieving this.

Let me just start off by saying that I am so thrilled that director David Yates is doing the two-part Deathly Hallows. Order of the Phoenix and now Half-Blood Prince are my top favorites in the series due to his great direction. This film strikes the perfect balance between darkness and humor (I love the character of Luna, especially her funny little comments like the "sleep walking" line, and it was nice to see Rupert's high comedic side as Ron... also Dan Rad's Harry during the hilarious Felix Felicis sequence.) The cinematography is also worth noting as it is simply beautiful (thanks to Bruno Debonnel) and the best looking film in the series. The score had a nice epic feel to it as well and was quite noticeable during key scenes.

The acting... awesome. Michael Gambon is Dumbledore. The man pulled him off extremely well (especially during the intense cave sequence and the Astrononmy Tower) and I love that we get to see more of his quirky side ("knitting patterns" :D) Alan Rickman is as brooding and mysterious as always; Tom Felton played the tortured and emotional Draco flawlessly, and Helena Bonham Carter... I love her as Bellatrix. So malicious and twisted. Jessie Cave also got a lot of laughs as the annoying Lavendar Brown and her scenes with Ron were a riot. I cannot forget to add Jim Broadbent as Horace Slughorn... perfect. He played the character with just the right amount of humor and anger.

Definitely the best Potter film in the series thus far IMO and it's tied with UP as the only other summer movie that I've given a perfect score.

10/10

http://www.channel4.com/film/media/images/Channel4/film/H/harry_potter_half_blood_prince_xl_06--film-A.jpg

[jbar1026]

great movie! harry potter and the half blood prince 9/10

the two and half hours felt like less than an hour. see this movie you wont be sorry.

[InvaderZim]

8/10



SPOILERS!!!

it would have been a 9/10 but they totally dropped the ball at the end. I read the book two weeks ago and there was a really really great battle at the end between McGonagall and Snape plus alot of death eaters and it had Greyback mauling people... it was all left out... It would have given the movie a really great end...

[Asa_Phelps]

I thought the one place I could come for some honest and fair opinions would be to JoBlo. Right after GoF this was the worst movie.

The pacing was horrible. It was like a truck stuck in the mud; spinning tires pointlessly without making any further progress. Sometimes it would get traction, making you to think 'okay, here comes the action!' only to get stuck in the mud again.

It was a jumbled mess, jumping from plot point to plot point in a very jagged way with teenagers making out and Slughorn's funny faces in between.

What the hell was the point of Draco getting that Vanishing Cabinet into Hogwarts and practicing to get it to work? The Death Eaters were his back up for getting out of the school after he kills Dumbledore. But in the film the fight was cut out and instead they just casually walk out so what was even the point of having them there in the first place?

And why is it that Snape is always getting the royal screw job in these films? He hasn't been depicted well in the films since PoA. In the GoB film, they decided to cut out Sirius and him shaking hands and then Snape being sent on a questionable mission. Okay fine, no big deal - I understand they can't include everything. But to take something from the book and do the opposite in the film is just ridiculous and yet it happened in the same film. In the book, when Harry is called as the fourth champion, Dumbledore asks Snape what he thinks and Snape says that Harry has been breaking the rules ever since he got to the school and he's basically not happy with it. In the movie Snape tells Dumbledore that he thinks Harry should totally participate. WHAT???

OotP has even more interesting Snape moments, especially during the Occlumency lessons. Besides feeling a little rushed, I was for the most part satisfied with how they handled it in the film. But one of the reasons I was satisfied was because I thought HBP would make up for it.

It didn't. Besides Harry carrying the book around to even remind us that it he still had it, there wasn't much else. In the novel, you got to learn a lot about Snape as a person because of that potions text book. Instead of showing that they chose to stick in more jokes and make-out scenes.

I just loved the part where the trio is in the tower where Harry last saw Dumbledore alive, they're all taking about his death and how dark times are coming and then out of nowhere Hermione's like 'Oh Ron is okay that you're dating Ginny. Just don't snog in front of him.'

Don't even get me started on the awkwardness that was the Ginny/Harry relationship. Why did she tie his shoelace? Who the hell notices an untied shoe when they think they are about to finally kiss the person they've been fancying for a long time. Then when she does kiss him, she just disappears for some weird reason. Maybe she wasn't even there. Maybe Harry just required her to be there and the Room of Requirements conjured her up for him.

Aweful. 5.5/10

[adamjohnson]

8/10



SPOILERS!!!

it would have been a 9/10 but they totally dropped the ball at the end. I read the book two weeks ago and there was a really really great battle at the end between McGonagall and Snape plus alot of death eaters and it had Greyback mauling people... it was all left out... It would have given the movie a really great end...

Yates said he felt a Hogwarts battle at the end of both 6 AND 7 would have been redundant. He's saving it.

[adamjohnson]

And why is it that Snape is always getting the royal screw job in these films? He hasn't been depicted well in the films since PoA. In the GoB film, they decided to cut out Sirius and him shaking hands and then Snape being sent on a questionable mission. Okay fine, no big deal - I understand they can't include everything. But to take something from the book and do the opposite in the film is just ridiculous and yet it happened in the same film. In the book, when Harry is called as the fourth champion, Dumbledore asks Snape what he thinks and Snape says that Harry has been breaking the rules ever since he got to the school and he's basically not happy with it. In the movie Snape tells Dumbledore that he thinks Harry should totally participate. WHAT???

OotP has even more interesting Snape moments, especially during the Occlumency lessons. Besides feeling a little rushed, I was for the most part satisfied with how they handled it in the film. But one of the reasons I was satisfied was because I thought HBP would make up for it.

Way to judge this film on past films. :/

[sbunn10]

I thought the one place I could come for some honest and fair opinions would be to JoBlo. Right after GoF this was the worst movie.



Well that's awkward, I'm pretty sure most of us schmoes were being honest... and I don't see what makes our opinions unfair.

[adamjohnson]

I just loved the part where the trio is in the tower where Harry last saw Dumbledore alive, they're all taking about his death and how dark times are coming and then out of nowhere Hermione's like 'Oh Ron is okay that you're dating Ginny. Just don't snog in front of him.'

I agree on this though. I would have much rather Ginny showed her support for him in person after the Funeral. That was the moment I liked best in their relationship.

[Asa_Phelps]

Well that's awkward, I'm pretty sure most of us schmoes were being honest... and I don't see what makes our opinions unfair.

Okay perhaps that was wrong of me to say. I just meant that it seems like many opinions I was reading sounded like . . . well you know when you're just excited and over-stimulated and you give the film reviews that are way higher than it deserves? Like Cloverfield?

That's just what it felt like when I've been reading some of the things people are saying. Especially when people will list several things they felt was wrong with it and then give it 8/10 anyway.

Way to judge this film on past films. :/

Okay, let me shorten it for you. Personally I feel Snape was never portrayed to his full extent as an influential character in the movies. In this film, The Half-Blood Prince where Snape is the Half-Blood Prince and kills Dumbledore where you would think they would do the most justice - they didn't. At all.

[bsquared318]

After last year’s “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” I feared greatly for the future of the franchise. I watched in horror as it condensed the plot and failed to stay true to the spirit of the books. When the trailers appeared, my opinion didn’t waiver at all, and it certainly didn’t help when the release date was pushed back eight months. To my pleasant surprise, “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince” exceeded my expectations, becoming one of the best “Potter” films to date.

Those under the delusion that film adaptations of novels must be spot-on replicas of the printed work or they won’t even be fit for muggle eyes should avoid this outing altogether. Healthy chunks from J.K. Rowling’s bestseller have either been altered or taken out altogether. Some of these are understandable (an entire subplot about house elves), others are not (a pointless fight scene at the Burrow is added, while an epic fight scene at the end is taken out completely). Despite what some die-hard fans will tell you, “Half Blood Prince” is worth a second and third viewing. This movie stays true to the spirit of the novel, has a grand appearance, draws you in from beginning to end and leaves you hungry for more.

“Dark and difficult times lie ahead, Harry,” Dumbledore said in “Goblet of Fire.” Two films later, we finally begin to see what he means. Pushing its PG rating, the film is perhaps the darkest film yet, making “Prisoner of Azkaban” look like an episode of “Lamb Chop’s Play Along.” Dark wizards are wrecking havoc on our world, and Voldemort their leader is doing everything in his power to rise back to power. We learn more of the history behind the Dark Lord’s rise to power, and watch in horror at some of the things that unfold. Characters are more down to earth and haggard, making them more realistic and more likely to gain our sympathy.

The visual style that director David Yates brings to the film is breathtaking, made even better by the presence of little things like moving portraits of floating objects that help you get lost in this fascinating world – something Yates’s “Order of the Phoenix” was noticeably bereft of. Fred and George Weasley’s joke shop in Diagon Alley is one of the best examples of this, where life jumps out from every corner of the screen. In fact, every scene and every set is full of life, from the Burrow to bathroom. It really is nice to have magic back in the Harry Potter world.

Steve Kloves also returns to pen the screenplay, and it’s good to have him back. Having penned four other “Potter” flicks, he shows that he’s the man for the job. Kloves brings back the humor that was lacking in “Order of the Phoenix,” giving us some of the funniest sequences in the entire franchise. “Oh to be young and feel love’s keen sting,” Dumbledore says. Teenage hormones haven’t run this wild since “Goblet of Fire,” and it is quite exciting to see how everything plays out.

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson are a delight to watch, growing into mature performers. However, one can’t help but wonder if they will be able to break their mold to have success after the roles that launched them into fame. Hopefully, their characters will have more complexity in the remaining films so we can see them at their best. The supporting cast is amazing as well. Alan Rickman’s character is showing some physical age, but that just helps add to his personality. He is tired, stressed, and scared of what lies ahead. Michael Gambon delivers a powerful performance, finally seeming to have hit just the right note for playing the headmaster of Hogwarts. Although Tom Felton really is beginning to look like an adult, he still delivers an emotionally packed performance. Also notable is Jim Broadbent as the latest Potions professor who holds the key to vital information about Voldemort.

While everything is smooth sailing for fans of the books, too many things are supposed to be explained by Harry Potter fans. If you’re lost (and you will be at some point along the way), just ask the person next to you for clarity. Chances are, they’ve read the books and would be more than glad to tell you everything the movie left out.

9/10

[Monotreme]

Saw it tonight and loved it. Best film of the series so far, very closely followed by Goblet of Fire. Here's the full review:

I think I’ve finally got Harry Potter all figured out. I mean, when you think about, it’s pretty unexplainable. In 1997 a young adult’s novel pops up out of nowhere, from an unknown author, featuring a simple mystery story and a classic ultimate good-versus-ultimate evil set-up of the kind that dates back to the classic fantasy novels, and even further back to the roots of Christianity and religion as we know it, really. Jump 10 years later and the book has spawned six sequels becoming what is undoubtedly the single most successful series of novels of all time. Children who have never picked up another book in their life have at least read Harry Potter; adults too. The film adaptations now compose the single most successful film franchise of all time, and the latest installment looks to be on the way to break pretty much every box office record known to man. I myself am an admitted Potter fan, also of the novels but mostly of the films, in particular from the third one onward. Like the book series, the films too started out in pretty simple, humble beginnings, with straightforward storytelling, a Hardy Boys-esque mystery coupled with a mythology based on practically every traditional folklore and fantasy element already published; but from the third onwards, both the novels and the films become more complex, more coherent, more long-reaching, and consequently more compelling. The sixth book has always been my favourite, and I have been anticipating the film adaptation more than any other film recently. And suffice it to say that I was not disappointed. Let’s dive right into it, then.

A fact too many filmmakers and producers tend to forget lately is that the single most important element of making a successful film is a compelling plot and characters. While the previous entry in the series, the fifth, perhaps suffered from too much plot and characters, this latest installment, with its substantially longer running time, reaches a very satisfying balance. Sure, many sub-plots and entire sequences are lost in the adaptation, but this is an understandable and natural event, and necessary to condense the plot and keep things moving along. But more importantly, the filmmakers and screenwriter Steve Kloves know where to keep the focus for most of the duration of the film: its characters. At least in its first couple of hours, the film is essentially a character study, building up the relationships, feelings, thoughts and emotions of its three (already-not-so-young) protagonists – Harry, Ron and Hermione – while also devoting substantial time to develop and explore the emotional conflicts of a fourth character who was always so flat throughout the first five films but finally fulfills and even surpasses his potential this time around – Draco Malfoy. I was overjoyed that the film took the time out to develop his character and portray his emotions and conflicts, and it added an extra compelling element to an already very rich film.

These first two hours, besides showcasing some fascinating and excellently done character development as well as some darker but quite important and gripping plot points are for the most part quite light-hearted and humorous, and better than any other film in the series showcase just what life is really like for these hormonal, developing teenagers, on top of all their burdens. The fifth film was rather weighed down by its focus on plot and the conflict and emotional burden of the characters, but the fourth film, my second favourite in the series, dabbed quite successfully into this territory. Now, the sixth builds upon and expands these themes to provide some of the most enjoyable and certainly the absolute funniest scenes in the entire series. But it is in its final half hour that this film truly and utterly surpasses anything else previously achieved in the series. The shift in tone to dead-serious and quite somber and emotional – not to mention totally gripping, thrilling and quite scary – from the funny and light-hearted first couple of hours is most appropriate and expertly done, and the important plot developments that unfold in this final half hour are without a doubt the best scenes of the entire film series so far; they are just absolutely, no-holds-barred, purely magical and hauntingly beautiful cinematic moments that take the film and the series in general to a whole new level of compelling drama. Harry isn’t dealing with trolls or giant spiders or dragons or anything of that sort anymore – he’s dealing with massive, life-altering, burdening emotions, and it’s all so absolutely compelling and thrilling that I can’t stop thinking of the half hour alone.

Over the years, this franchise has become an absolute haven for the best of what two very distinct groups of film industry employees have to offer: classic British actors and technical craftsmen. Starting with the first group, I want to heap endless praise on all the actors who appeared in the film – and it’s quite a large ensemble. First and foremost, the three lead actors. It is an absolute and indescribable treat to see how much these three young performers have developed as actors and honed their talents to perfection from the first film when they were just 11-year-old children. Watching the entire series, it is impossible not to notice the immense leaps and bounds in talent, charisma and prowess these three make from film to film, and in this one, all three of them deliver absolutely spectacular, emotional and honest performances – they’ve really outdone themselves, and I salute them for that. Also worth mentioning is Tom Felton, who was always quite enjoyable but harmless as Harry’s smug, tormenting bully in the previous five films but who this time around finally gets his shining moment, and showcases some really, really great and most impressive acting chops in an emotional, intense performance I don’t think anyone thought he had in him. And then we have one of the most impressive, talented and encompassing supporting ensembles, composed of literally the best of the best that Britain has to offer in terms of acting talent. Many absolutely fantastic and classic performers are unfortunately (but unavoidably) underused in this entry, although most of them have already had moments to shine in previous films – Helena Bonham Carter, Timothy Spall, Maggie Smith, Robbie Coltrane and David Thewlis are just a few, but there are plenty more. But a few of these supporting actors get to take center stage in this film, and particularly worth mentioning are Alan Rickman, Michael Gambon, and Jim Broadbent. Broadbent’s casting was a stroke of genius as he manages to take a rather unsympathetic character from the book and really change him and shape him into his own, adding this whole crusty old British countryman element to it and really making him quite endearing and fascinating. Then we have Alan Rickman, who has always added something interesting and absolutely divine to the franchise, and who with his sharp punctuations and long pauses between words makes Snape one of the most effectively sinister characters in any film of the genre. And finally, we have Michael Gambon, who was always effective as Dumbledore since replacing the late and great Richard Harris in the third film but who really outdoes himself and draws from the kind of acting chops he’s always shown throughout his career and that awarded him the title Sir to deliver his best performance in the series, and perhaps what is the single best performance of this film in particular.

One cannot discuss a Harry Potter film without mentioning its technical elements, as these films have managed over the years to collect some of the most gifted talents in the business who in turn have crafted some of the most effective, creative and remarkable design of the genre. As in the other films in the franchise, both the costumes and the sets stand out as being outstandingly, incredibly designed – it’s no secret that the fantasy genre, along with sci-fi, is the genre that provides the most interesting and creative opportunities for going completely wild and artistic with the design. Composer Nicholas Hooper once again provides a very effective score for the film, finally breaking free (well, for the most part) from John Williams’ original themes and providing his own unique soundscape, even if it’s not quite up there with John Williams’ work on the first films. The effects work is also top notch – probably the best in the series, although from the fourth film onwards the franchise has shown some pretty consistently high-quality special effects and CGI work. And though this film doesn’t have many totally effects-driven environments or set pieces (which is an extremely good thing in my opinion, as I am ardently opposed to exclusively green-screen filmmaking which many directors have recently resorted to, especially in big genre franchises such as this one), many CGI elements are flawlessly and totally unnoticeably integrated into the scenes without ever drawing attention to themselves or looking at all fake. Of course, David Yates, directing his second film out of four in the series, presides over the proceedings with utmost skill and deft attention, especially for a director whose roots are in small but excellent British TV dramas. But one craftsman in particular I would like to single out is cinematographer Bruno Delbonnel, who has been the driving force behind three of the most visually stunning and drop-dead beautiful-looking films of recent years: Amelie, A Very Long Engagement and Across the Universe. His touch is impossible to miss and his unique, highly stylized and absolutely, dazzlingly, incredibly beautiful visual style elevates the film’s look to a level not yet before reached in the franchise – and it’s been an extremely well-shot franchise so far. His use of lighting, colour, tone and shadow is simply incomparable to any other cinematographer’s look – Christopher Doyle perhaps comes very close – and the bottom line is that this film is absolutely gorgeous to look at and a cinematographer’s dream come true.

All this talk and I completely forgot that I was going to explain that I had Harry Potter all figured out. Well here it is. J.K. Rowling and screenwriter Steve Kloves, start out simply and traditionally, too much so in fact, but in their later works, manage to achieve a unique and incredibly effective balance between the broader, gripping, epic-in-scope mythological and fantasy-driven story arcs, and the personal, character-driven, essentially very real-life experiences the characters go through, experiences every one of us “regular” people can relate to such as conflicting emotions, love, loss, friendship, loyalty, and all the other experiences and emotions every teenager in the world has already or is currently going through. And it is this delicate and perfect balance that provides what is eventually just all-around compelling storytelling, and nothing less.

RATING: 8/10.

[sbunn10]

wow, great review Monotreme. You always put a lot of time in and write thorough, well-done reviews that put my three sentences to shame, haha. It takes me too long to write long, coherent reviews. :)

Just curious though, your review didn't mention anything negative, whatsoever... what held you back from giving a higher score? Was there something you didn't like, or was the film simply too unremarkable or lighthearted to warrant a higher grade in your book?

[bigred760]

Just saw it and I also really enjoyed it. The story was solid, the character were interesting, and I was invested in what was going on. I thought the direction and cinematography also stood out. All in all, I enjoyed myself.

8/10

[BakeTheMooCow]

Another dull Harry Potter movie. Prisoner of Azkaban was the only good movie in the series. This one is a disjointed mess, a montage of boring scenes that don't go anywhere. In the book, the HBP's potion book is central and it's virtually ignored in the movie with just a handful of scenes featuring it. Meanwhile, there is a TON of time dedicated to Ron and his girlfriend. Bored now. They also skipped a lot of stuff about Tom Riddle's past and didn't have Dumbledore immobilizing Harry which I thought was key. They fucked up the reveal that Snape is the HBP. It was way too quick. The attack on the Burrow came out of nowhere and was unnecessary, but it was done well so I was OK with it. The direction and acting were very vanilla despite the overabundance of talent. Alan Rickman doesn't get enough screen time but I guess he was eating donuts off screen. And yet, despite all these changes, fuck me if it didn't feel like a placeholder and very Cliff Notes-like and was just jumping from one scene to another without building momentum or having any cohesion. Reading the books is just a different, deeply engrossing and thrilling experience that the movies cannot capture no matter how hard they try, with only PoA coming close.

5/10

[Bahs]

8/10



SPOILERS!!!

it would have been a 9/10 but they totally dropped the ball at the end. I read the book two weeks ago and there was a really really great battle at the end between McGonagall and Snape plus alot of death eaters and it had Greyback mauling people... it was all left out... It would have given the movie a really great end...

this is the reason why it dropped to an 8/10 for me too. still i did eat up the cave sequence but the very end was a little underwhelming

[echo_bravo]

I have NEVER seen a Harry Potter film or read a Harry Potter book...am I missing out???

[sbunn10]

I have NEVER seen a Harry Potter film or read a Harry Potter book...am I missing out???

You are DEFINATELY missing out on the books, they are excellent! I believe many schmoes would agree with me when I say that you should watch the films as well. They aren't as excellent as the books, and really don't compare at all, but they are very enjoyable. The first two are made for kids, but the story gets progressively darker and more adult as the characters get older. While the first two and the Goblet of Fire are simply enjoyable to me, the Prisoner of Azkaban and the Half-Blood Prince are great fantasty films. I would read the books first, and once they hook you in, you'll want to watch the films. (just go in with an open mind, they're adaptations, not page-to-page visualizations)

[InvaderZim]

I have NEVER seen a Harry Potter film or read a Harry Potter book...am I missing out???

IM 30

My hobbies in life are bodybuilding and tattoos. Im bald, goatee and have 50 tats. I work a hard ass job and live a rough ass life.. I fucking LOVE the potter books.. Especially the last.

The movies are like a wonderful new version of the goonies at heart and get progressively more mature... every movie is good.

[adamjohnson]

I have NEVER seen a Harry Potter film or read a Harry Potter book...am I missing out???

The Yates films, to me, seem like Potter 1A and Potter 1B. They go together.

The Yates films dont try to "force" any subplots in that arent essential to "Harry vs Voldemort." (except snogging). As opposed to forcing them in an dnot doing them the justice they need.

So there's a lot of fun stuff in the books that just isnt in the films.

[BankaiZaraki]

I dont know why all of you are praising a film that leaves out pretty much the whole freaking ending of the book. Now I did like majority of the film and the general direction but im so sick of directors leaving out shit left and right thats in the the book FOR A REASON. I give this film 3.5/5 *****

My list is as followed
1)GOF
2)POA
3)SS
4)HBP
5)COS
6)OOTP

[adamjohnson]

Films and books have different dramatic structures. What part are you talking about?

[BakeTheMooCow]

Films and books have different dramatic structures. What part are you talking about?

SPOILERS





The film leaves out the Death Eaters' battle after they arrive at Hogwarts before they kill Dumbledore and then skips over Dumbledore's funeral and Harry breaking up with Ginny. So yes, I'd say they left out a lot of the ending. But we wouldn't want to miss out on some Lavender/Won-Won action, would we?

[adamjohnson]

SPOILERS





The film leaves out the Death Eaters' battle after they arrive at Hogwarts before they kill Dumbledore and then skips over Dumbledore's funeral and Harry breaking up with Ginny. So yes, I'd say they left out a lot of the ending. But we wouldn't want to miss out on some Lavender/Won-Won action, would we?

Its already been said (by me) that Yates intentionally left out the big Hogwarts battle because having said battle TWICE would be redundant. He is saving it for the finale of the final film.

Its also likely that the Funeral scene will be at the beginning of the next film. '

I, too, wish there was a scene with Harry and Ginny.

[Bourne101]

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - 9/10

After an eight month delay, finally Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince has been released. Considering the novel is my second favorite in the series (behind the final entry) I had very high expectations. It certainly did not disappoint. It's thrilling, funny, well-acted, extremely well-made and completely absorbing. My eyes were glued to the screen for the entire 153 minute runtime as I watched what is not only one of the best films of the summer, not only one of the best films of the year, but also the best Harry Potter film yet.

The novel itself covers so much material. The plot is quite extensive and it includes numerous sub-plots. After recently re-watching the entire series, The Order of the Phoenix became my new favorite film in the series (until now of course), simply because David Yates pays such strong attention to the most important of details and, along with screenwriter Steve Kloves, narrows the film down to a specific focus to make it a truly cinematic experience. Some Potter fans will complain that too much is cut out, it isn't long enough or that it isn't faithful enough to the novel. The thing is, if all of these things that Potter fans loved in the novel were all thrown into a cinematic setting, it just wouldn't work. David Yates makes the film work by trimming the fat, and making sure that the film works on a cinematic level. Otherwise we just get a page-by-page surface adaptation without any meat to chew on.

The plot itself (novel and film) is pretty brilliant. Things have changed at Hogwarts. The characters are different, the circumstances are different, among other things. Things are much darker and the situations are much more serious. Voldemort and his army are no longer a force that we can just assume Harry will be able to overcome easily. For such dark subject matter, the film is quite funny. The jokes aren't forced either and work quite well. Yates and Kloves also know when and when not to use humor. The last thirty minutes are about as dark as a film can get, and I doubt there was a single person in the theatre I was in that cracked a smile in that thirty minutes. The events unfolded just as I had imagined, and what was cut out I didn't really notice because like I said before, Yates and Kloves know how to adapt a novel and make it work on a cinematic level. The plot development in this film is the best in the series, and right up there with Order it is also the most focused.

We have come a long way since 2001, when Radcliffe, Grint, Watson and the rest of the gang introduced us to the film version of the novel that started it all. Radcliffe, Grint and Watson have all matured greatly and have turned into some pretty decent actors. They are much more confident and much less wooden than they were in the first few films in the series. Michael Gambon does a fine job again as Dumbledore, and I was glad he had a much larger role in this film so we could really see him show off his acting talent. Jim Broadbent was brilliant as Slughorn. A character I never really invested in when it came to the novels, but Broadbent really gives the Slughorn a little something extra and was certainly an audience favorite in this film. Bonnie Wright's character, Ginny, has become a much more essential piece of the film series at this point and Wright did a very good job here. I have to give it up for Tom Felton who was a highlight for me in this film. Not only does his character become much more interesting in this entry, but Felton does a hell of a job of selling it. Really, really great stuff from Felton. I have to give my props to Alan Rickman who, as always, is phenomenal as Snape. Though his character has always been an important one, he becomes much more important in this entry and Rickman did a superb job of making those classic ending scenes from the novel come to life.

The direction and cinematography really is just flawless. Yates creates such a wonderful atmosphere and keeps the film very focused and maintains a strong narrative. In my opinion, he's done the best job of any of the directors that have worked on the series. And yes, that means Alfonso Cuarón, whose Prisoner of Azkaban always loses me in the last bit after such a wonderful first two hours or so. This doesn't happen here. I was enticed and completely absorbed by this film for its entire length. The film itself looks absolutely phenomenal. Each shot done with great care, with some occasional creative boosts such as the field scene that really bring out the atmosphere in some specific scenes. The CGI is also very, very good when used.

Steve Kloves has adapted each novel in the series. Each screenplay is quite different, as the novels are each a bit different. The past few screenplays though have really turned it up a notch. As the novel series went on, Rowling made the novels even better and more interesting. Kloves follows the same path. This is the best Potter screenplay he has written to date. He is now a master of cutting, slicing and dicing the novels to bring them to an appropriate cinematic level. He has now decided to stick to specific focuses and acts accordingly when choosing which parts of the novel to include and exclude. The characters in the novel are very well developed, and Kloves has done a wonderful job of developing them in his adaptations. This film flows brilliantly, maintains a strong narrative and stays true to the novel, even when Kloves has to cut some important parts to make it work on a cinematic level.

Overall, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the best film in the Potter series. With its fine acting, brilliant direction and wonderfully adapted screenplay, it just works to such a larger degree than any other film in the series. And that is saying something, since no film in the series has received anything less than an 8/10 from me, and all have been very well-received critically. I'm really glad that The Deathly Hollows is being split into two so that the magic can last that much longer and so the cast and crew responsible for this brilliant adaptation can have two more chances to shine.

[BankaiZaraki]

It just seemed to me that the ending was very very very anti-climatic..like seriously what was the point of the death eaters even being there to begin with? They seriously had no point being there. If they would've left the battle in the movie then yea they wouldve served a purpose..Oh lets go to hogwarts do break some glass and kill one person..BS!

[adamjohnson]

It just seemed to me that the ending was very very very anti-climatic..like seriously what was the point of the death eaters even being there to begin with? They seriously had no point being there. If they would've left the battle in the movie then yea they wouldve served a purpose..Oh lets go to hogwarts do break some glass and kill one person..BS!

No one expected Draco to actually succeed - and very few of them trusted Snape. That was the reason they were there.

Here's hoping John Hurt will play Ollivander in the next film.

[BakeTheMooCow]

Its already been said (by me) that Yates intentionally left out the big Hogwarts battle because having said battle TWICE would be redundant. He is saving it for the finale of the final film.

This makes no sense. The two battles may take place at Hogwarts, but they are completely different in size and scope. After the one in HBP was over, everyone expresses regret that they didn't do more and they feel somewhat guilty and responsible for Dumbledore's death.

"I messed up, Harry," said Ron, bleakly. "... but Malfoy got past us."
"I was so stupid, Harry!" said Hermione... "Harry, we didn't realize, we just let Snape go!"
etc etc.

This gives some perspective to why Ron and Hermione want to join Harry in the search for Horcruxes at the end of the book/film.

For Yates to just think that because the two battles take place in the same location, that he can completely ignore one and focus on the other because 'Oh, what the hell, they'll look the same anyway' is pretty weak.

[dellamorte dellamore]

I have NEVER seen a Harry Potter film or read a Harry Potter book...am I missing out???

I would check out what i think is the precursor to the Potter books ( tell me Bink didn't give birth to the Potter character after reading the first book in the series " A Spell for Chameleon "), the Piers Anthony Xanth series . Now that is one epic series , makes the Potter universe seem claustrophobic , miniscule and lacking in depth . I always had a suspicion that Rowlings lifted some ideas from those stories . Now that's something i want to see brought to the screen , the Potter series is so damn redundant and they pale in comparison to the Xanth series .

Anyway , i'll pass on this , i'll just wait for the Hobbit :)

[adamjohnson]

This makes no sense. The two battles may take place at Hogwarts, but they are completely different in size and scope. After the one in HBP was over, everyone expresses regret that they didn't do more and they feel somewhat guilty and responsible for Dumbledore's death.

"I messed up, Harry," said Ron, bleakly. "... but Malfoy got past us."
"I was so stupid, Harry!" said Hermione... "Harry, we didn't realize, we just let Snape go!"
etc etc.

This gives some perspective to why Ron and Hermione want to join Harry in the search for Horcruxes at the end of the book/film.

For Yates to just think that because the two battles take place in the same location, that he can completely ignore one and focus on the other because 'Oh, what the hell, they'll look the same anyway' is pretty weak.

We have no knowledge of the budgets or schedules of these films. Maybe it was even out of his control? The movie was already 2 1/2 hours long. Perhaps you'd rather have the battle instead of the development of Ron and Hermione's budding relationship?

The finale to GoF was equally hacked up and pointless, yet some call that the best film.

I dont have a big problem with HBP's ending. If there was chaos all around, the death of D may have been lost in the shuffle, and lost its impact. There was a very quiet mood throughout the whole of HBP and it seemed very fitting given the somber ending.

There are certain character moments you miss. I personally wanted to see Snape yell "You're calling ME a coward? You have no idea the bravery this is taking!" (Paraphrasing). I wanted to see Hagrid yell, in complete denial, that Dumbledore was dead.

But I think the throughline of Harry V Voldemort is intact. And thats what these are all about.

[drc5145]

One thing that has come to my mind after dwelling on the movie for a bit is that I like to think this movie has Michael Gambon's best performance as Dumbledore yet. He was solid the past few films after replacing Harris but I had previously still wished for Harris to be in that role. Granted, maybe it was the screenplay itself, but I think this is the one where he really did shine through and it could not have come at a better time. I can't wait to see how he handles Dumbledore in the final 2 movies.

I definitely took notice of the movie's Cinematography but it disappoints me somewhat in that Bruno Delbonnel won't be returning to shoot The Deathly Hallows. Yates has since hired Eduardo Serra to shoot the last 2 films. Yates said that the film will be shot "with loads of hand-held cameras. I want to shake things up every time I go into this world. I like experimenting as we go along." Interesting to say the least.

[ericdraven]

There was a awesome handheld shot in Phoenix.



SPOILERS(for those who haven't seen it)

When Harry chases after Bellatrix after she killed Sirius.

[adamjohnson]

One thing that has come to my mind after dwelling on the movie for a bit is that I like to think this movie has Michael Gambon's best performance as Dumbledore yet. He was solid the past few films after replacing Harris but I had previously still wished for Harris to be in that role. Granted, maybe it was the screenplay itself, but I think this is the one where he really did shine through and it could not have come at a better time. I can't wait to see how he handles Dumbledore in the final 2 movies.

I definitely took notice of the movie's Cinematography but it disappoints me somewhat in that Bruno Delbonnel won't be returning to shoot The Deathly Hallows. Yates has since hired Eduardo Serra to shoot the last 2 films. Yates said that the film will be shot "with loads of hand-held cameras. I want to shake things up every time I go into this world. I like experimenting as we go along." Interesting to say the least.

Wow.

Ed Serra shot Unbreakable - maybe the best shot film ever, IMO.

[Monotreme]

One thing that has come to my mind after dwelling on the movie for a bit is that I like to think this movie has Michael Gambon's best performance as Dumbledore yet. He was solid the past few films after replacing Harris but I had previously still wished for Harris to be in that role. Granted, maybe it was the screenplay itself, but I think this is the one where he really did shine through and it could not have come at a better time. I can't wait to see how he handles Dumbledore in the final 2 movies.

I definitely took notice of the movie's Cinematography but it disappoints me somewhat in that Bruno Delbonnel won't be returning to shoot The Deathly Hallows. Yates has since hired Eduardo Serra to shoot the last 2 films. Yates said that the film will be shot "with loads of hand-held cameras. I want to shake things up every time I go into this world. I like experimenting as we go along." Interesting to say the least.

YES. Michael Gambon delivered what is in my mind the best performance in the entire film series in this film, and in fact, I think that he was SO good in this film that he may even deserve an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Hey - Ian McKellen got one for playing Gandalf in Fellowship of the Ring, so it's not totally far-fetched.

Also, regarding Bruno Delbonnel/Eduardo Serra: I was also disappointed to see that Delbonnel, one of my all-time favourite cinematographers, won't be returning for the last two films - especially because Half-Blood Prince was one of the best looking movies I've seen in recent YEARS, not to mention the best looking of the whole franchise, which is already a pretty good-looking series in general. But Serra is also one of the best cinematographers; Aside from the stunningly gorgeous Unbreakable, he's also shot The Wings of the Dove, Girl with a Pearl Earring, Blood Diamond and a slew of other really good-looking films. So sure, not quite as artistically satisfying as Delbonnel (fuck if Amelie and A Very Long Engagement aren't the best-looking films I've ever seen), but he's still good.

And it's a shame Gambon won't be returning for the next two installments... but we have plenty to look forward to, including the returns of Brendan Gleeson, Jason Isaacs, Ralph Fiennes, and hopefully (and most likely) John Hurt as well.

Also, I think the whole "lost in the adaptation" arguement is total bullshit. I made a thread about it in the Rants section, check it out.

[Monotreme]

wow, great review Monotreme. You always put a lot of time in and write thorough, well-done reviews that put my three sentences to shame, haha. It takes me too long to write long, coherent reviews. :)

Just curious though, your review didn't mention anything negative, whatsoever... what held you back from giving a higher score? Was there something you didn't like, or was the film simply too unremarkable or lighthearted to warrant a higher grade in your book?

Thanks for the compliments and kind words, sbunn. I don't really put too much thought into them, though; I just have a lot to say and gush about, especially on films that I enjoyed, and I like getting it all down and out there. So I'm glad other people enjoy them as well and find them coherent and well-done!

As to the rating: In my rating system, an 8/10 rating is REALLY good. I mean, a good film will get that rating from me, even if I have nothing bad to say about it. From there and upwards, it's really a matter of varying degrees of goodness: an 8/10 review will be positive, a 9/10 review will be VERY positive and a 10/10 review (rare for me; last year didn't have any, for example and there are only about 20 movies in all time that have that rating from me) will be absolutely gushing (and usually quite long - my There Will Be Blood review was a whopping 5 pages in Microsoft Word; Half-Blood Prince in comparison is 3 pages). So it's not that I didn't like anything in the film or found something to knock the rating down; it's just, like you said, not as blow-your-mind amazing as films that have received a 9/10 rating from me to warrant a similar grade. Although you know, it might just go up upon a repeat viewing, because I'm liking the film more and more the more I think about it.

To answer your question, though, there was ONE tiny little totally nitpicky thing that bothered me. When Dumbledore and Harry view Slughorn's memory, when he explains to Tom Riddle about the Horcruxes, Dumbledore exclaims and even emphasizes that he had "no idea" and that this was "more than he could have ever imagined", but then a sentence later Harry asks Dumbledore if "this was what he was going out of the school to look for" and Dumbledore responds that "yes", and that he "thinks he found another". But this makes no sense, as he just said he had no idea Voldemort had horcruxes, so how could he possibly have been looking for them or found another one? But that's just a silly little nitpicky thing, but something that will bother me every time I see the film, unfortunately...

[bigred760]

To answer your question, though, there was ONE tiny little totally nitpicky thing that bothered me. When Dumbledore and Harry view Slughorn's memory, when he explains to Tom Riddle about the Horcruxes, Dumbledore exclaims and even emphasizes that he had "no idea" and that this was "more than he could have ever imagined", but then a sentence later Harry asks Dumbledore if "this was what he was going out of the school to look for" and Dumbledore responds that "yes", and that he "thinks he found another". But this makes no sense, as he just said he had no idea Voldemort had horcruxes, so how could he possibly have been looking for them or found another one? But that's just a silly little nitpicky thing, but something that will bother me every time I see the film, unfortunately...

I was wondering about that too. It's been two years since I've read the book and I don't remember the specifics of the scene. The only thing I could come up with to explain it was that he wasn't expecting Voldemort to have seven of them. That would explain the "more than he could have ever imagined." He meant it literally. :D

[sbunn10]

MINOR SPOILERS IF YOU HAVEN'T READ DEATHLY HALLOWS .. just in case





And it's a shame Gambon won't be returning for the next two installments...

won't he? I thought I heard that he would... to play Dumbledore's brother, and Dumbledore in the flashbacks about his past?

[bigred760]

SPOILERS STILL APPLY!!!




MINOR SPOILERS IF YOU HAVEN'T READ DEATHLY HALLOWS .. just in case






won't he? I thought I heard that he would... to play Dumbledore's brother, and Dumbledore in the flashbacks about his past?



I don't know about the brother (I hope not, actually), but Dumbledore does appear briefly in the 7th book . . . in Harry's dream/near-death experience towards the end.

[Monotreme]

Actually, underrated Irishman Ciaran Hinds (There Will Be Blood, Munich, etc) will be playing Aberforth, Albus' brother. Also, since the young Dumbledore that will be appearing in the seventh film will be a teenager, Michael Gambon won't be playing him but rather a young actor named Toby Regbo. But yeah, I forgot about that scene in the end, so while that'll only be in the second film... it'll still mean more Gambon!

Also, regarding Dumbledore's reaction/the Horcruxes thing. If I recall correctly, in the book Dumbledore tells Harry that he suspected that Voldemort had split his soul into the Horcruxes but but needed the memory in order to be 100% sure. In the film that isn't made very clear and it seems like Dumbledore just realized/found out that they were Horcruxes, even though he already has the ring and has tried to destroy it, as well as the diary, and has already "found another one". So it makes sense that in the film he would have suspected that Voldemort had Horcruxes, but it isn't made clear at all in the dialogue, and that kind of bothered me... but only ever so slightly.

[snoopmish]

Actually, underrated Irishman Ciaran Hinds (There Will Be Blood, Munich, etc) will be playing Aberforth, Albus' brother. Also, since the young Dumbledore that will be appearing in the seventh film will be a teenager, Michael Gambon won't be playing him but rather a young actor named Toby Regbo. But yeah, I forgot about that scene in the end, so while that'll only be in the second film... it'll still mean more Gambon!

Also, regarding Dumbledore's reaction/the Horcruxes thing. If I recall correctly, in the book Dumbledore tells Harry that he suspected that Voldemort had split his soul into the Horcruxes but but needed the memory in order to be 100% sure. In the film that isn't made very clear and it seems like Dumbledore just realized/found out that they were Horcruxes, even though he already has the ring and has tried to destroy it, as well as the diary, and has already "found another one". So it makes sense that in the film he would have suspected that Voldemort had Horcruxes, but it isn't made clear at all in the dialogue, and that kind of bothered me... but only ever so slightly.

See now I took it as he needed the memory to verify what he already suspected, not that he didn't know yet. I haven't read the book yet, wanted to watch the film without it, but I can't wait to sit down tonight and start!!


By the way...Loved the movie! 9/10

[Monotreme]

See now I took it as he needed the memory to verify what he already suspected, not that he didn't know yet. I haven't read the book yet, wanted to watch the film without it, but I can't wait to sit down tonight and start!!

Well that's how it goes in the book, but I read the book and STILL didn't get that from the movie. If that's what they meant, then it wasn't clear, but it's weird that such a mistake would make it in as the scripts are usually totally scrutinized and reviewed by Rowling herself before filming commences, so you'd think that she'd notice if it was a mistake.

[Bourne101]

I forgot to mention in my review Hero Fiennes-Tiffin, who is brilliant and quite creepy as the young Tom Riddle in a brief, but powerful role. Looks like he has a bright future ahead of him.

[ScaryFreak1827]

**Minor spoilers**

For those complaining about the "battle" of Hogwarts being cut in this film, well, there wasn't much of a battle in the book. If you remember Harry chases after Snape and there's a bit of wand dueling with the DE's BUT most of the action/what happened is told to Harry after it actually happened (the next day). Here in the movie we are seeing it strictly from Harry's perspective. Also, regarding Harry breaking up with Ginny, well the filmakers are going a completely different route with their relationship so it works fine the way it is in the film with them remaining together.

PLUS it was just confirmed that the Hogwarts battle in DH will be 30 minutes long. If anyone wants the link to that I can post it.

[sbunn10]

yeah, post that if you don't mind. Thanks

[Bourne101]

Just finished my weekly listening of Mark Kermode's reviews. He really, really liked Half-Blood Prince and gives an excellent review. Wish Simon had shut up a bit though and let Mark explain in more detail why he thought the ending worked.

[BankaiZaraki]

This makes no sense. The two battles may take place at Hogwarts, but they are completely different in size and scope. After the one in HBP was over, everyone expresses regret that they didn't do more and they feel somewhat guilty and responsible for Dumbledore's death.

"I messed up, Harry," said Ron, bleakly. "... but Malfoy got past us."
"I was so stupid, Harry!" said Hermione... "Harry, we didn't realize, we just let Snape go!"
etc etc.

This gives some perspective to why Ron and Hermione want to join Harry in the search for Horcruxes at the end of the book/film.

For Yates to just think that because the two battles take place in the same location, that he can completely ignore one and focus on the other because 'Oh, what the hell, they'll look the same anyway' is pretty weak.

Bake, me and you are in the same boat here!

[Tonkuro]

I forgot to mention in my review Hero Fiennes-Tiffin, who is brilliant and quite creepy as the young Tom Riddle in a brief, but powerful role. Looks like he has a bright future ahead of him.

I second this. Very, very powerful and exactly how I pictured that scene in the book. Frank Dillane as the teen Tom Riddle ruled too. He was MUCH better than the Tom Riddle of CoS. CoS Riddle was much too handsome for me to really believe that he could become Voldemort, and wasn't creepy enough.

Other Characters/Actors that stood out for me (aside from Draco and Lavender)...

Helen McCrory as Narcissa. I thought she was PERFECT for this role, and I'm glad now that she was unable to take up Bellatrix when it was first offered to her (she was slated for that part but was expecting a child or something). Her hair was fucking awesome too, I wish I could get away with that.

Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix- Crazy ass pyro. HBIC of Harry Potter.

Alan Rickman as Snape- He's Alan fucking Rickman.

Wish they would've kept Bill and Fleur's parts in this movie. To me it was a good, uplifting part that was greatly needed in the last books.

[ilovemovies]

Man, the trailer for this movie made this movie look like it would action packed but infact there is very little action in the movie.


SPOILERS!





My only real complaint with this movie is why didn't Dumbledore fight back when Snape killed him? He just let himself be killed. WTF?!

Otherwise it was good. Not the best in the franchise like some people are saying but still pretty good.

[Bourne101]

SPOILERS!





My only real complaint with this movie is why didn't Dumbledore fight back when Snape killed him? He just let himself be killed. WTF?!

Otherwise it was good. Not the best in the franchise like some people are saying but still pretty good.

Have you read the books?

[ilovemovies]

Nope.

Why? Is it explained the Deathly Hollow?

[Bourne101]

Nope.

Why? Is it explained the Deathly Hollow?


Yep.

Honestly, don't look into it unless you plan on reading the final book before the last films come out. It will all be explained in the end, don't worry.

[Natty]

http://www.wildaboutmovies.com/images_7/HarryPotterHBPrince1.jpg

Well, I'm gonna have to say I disagree in that I don't think this is the best in the franchise so far (and I thought they were all getting better and better). I think the flaws would be that the performances and general story aren't as compelling for me and that some of the film felt rushed whereas some parts just felt dragged out. I think Steve Kloves does a great job of adapting the novels, however the only one he didn't adapt is Order of the Phoenix, which remains the best in the series as far as I'm concerned, so maybe Michael Godlenberg is the better writer, or maybe I just have length issues. As is typical of these movies though, it was engaging fantasy fun and some set peices were handled really well. Another strength is that this is also the funniest Harry Potter movie, but in my opinion, certainly not the best.

7/10

[JohnLocke2342]

Nope.

Why? Is it explained the Deathly Hollow?

you HAVE to read these books!! They make the movies look like made for tv nonsense. Well, except for maybe the last two.

And yes, there is an insane amount of depth to the snape/dumbledore situation in the end. To give you a hint, when the last book was being promoted there were signs at book stores saying SNAPE:GOOD or EVIL?

[snoopmish]

Nope.

Why? Is it explained the Deathly Hollow?

Now I haven't read Deathly Hollow either BUT....if you watch the film again...carefully....during all the Snape Dumbledore scenes, it pretty much lets you know why....it's just subtle. I kinda guessed it from watching it and looked it up later and was right.

[adamjohnson]

Now I haven't read Deathly Hollow either BUT....if you watch the film again...carefully....during all the Snape Dumbledore scenes, it pretty much lets you know why....it's just subtle. I kinda guessed it from watching it and looked it up later and was right.

There is so much more to it than just that. You will love it.

[snoopmish]

There is so much more to it than just that. You will love it.


As I said...I looked it up later...and yes there is;)

[NuclearMisfit]

Not a bad outing this time around especially since not much happens. Not my favorite book in the series but I liked the movie better, some stuff I would have liked to seen.

[Monotreme]

I forgot to mention in my review Hero Fiennes-Tiffin, who is brilliant and quite creepy as the young Tom Riddle in a brief, but powerful role. Looks like he has a bright future ahead of him.

YES! I forgot to mention him too, and I think that if there was a Best Casting Oscar this movie should have won, not only because it's managed to collect pretty much every classic British actor of all time, but because it is an absolute stroke of casting director genius to cast Ralph Fiennes' nephew, who looks quite a bit like him actually, what with the low brow and slightly downturned mouth, to play the kid version of his character.

Bonham-Carter, incidentally, was also great in this film but still a bit underused, especially considering her talent - hopefully she'll have bigger parts in the next two films - at least it was better than the 5th, in which she only had like one or two lines. Then again, it was kind of inevitable, since her character is nowhere near being the focus of the film and the movie did do a great job on focusing on the characters that mattered - Harry, Dumbledore and Draco.

[ScaryFreak1827]

yeah, post that if you don't mind. Thanks

Here you go. You may have to scroll down a bit, there's a lot of info on Deathly Hallows.

http://www.collider.com/2009/07/16/exclusive-producer-david-heyman-talks-harry-potter-and-the-half-blood-prince-and-harry-potter-and-the-deathly-hallows/

[poopontheshoes7]

Well, along with Order of the Phoenix, this is my favorite Potter outing to date. I loved the more somber, slow tone the film had going on. You could literally feel that shit was about to go down and it set up the final conflict perfectly.
One thing I feel this film actually improved upon the books is the relationship between Ron, Hermione, Harry and Ginny. I never fully bought into their romance in the novels but Yates and Kloves did an excellent job of exploring their characters and it never felt forced or hollow. This has the most believable character moments in the entire series.
The film also looked STUNNING. The cave scene in particular was absolutely jaw dropping and genuinely scary. This is probably the best looking Potter film to date.
I wasn't expecting to like the film as much as I did because HBP was the only book in the series I really didn't like. It was slow and didn't feel like it had it's own story to tell. I've said the only thing of any importance that happens in the sixth book is the exploration of Tom Riddle and the ending. The rest was just pointless and boring filler. It almost felt like an overlong prologue the final book. But the film really did a great job of adapting the story and it has me curious to revisit the sixth book again to see if I look at it in a different light.
I know this has been said about all the previous Potter films, but its true. This is the most mature and dark film to date. I really felt the sadness and conflict looming in the air the entire film and I can't wait to see how Deathly Hollows turns out.

8.5/10

[Crazy Dud]

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

**** out of ******(8/10)

I have not read any of the Harry Potter books. That must be made clear right away so you know my perspective on reviewing this film. I have followed the movie series, but I have not read a single book. Therefore, I cannot accurately comment on the quality of this film as an adaptation. I can only comment on my view of the film on its own terms. My favorite film in the series thus far is Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Unlike the other Potter films that came before it, Goblet's story was not focused purely on magic and fantasy, but also on the new challenges our three heroes face from the daily realities of growing up. This gave the film a heart that I felt the prior entries did not have enough of. After that point in the series came Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, which, despite having the most impressive fight scene in the series to date, lost those crucial elements that made Goblet excel. In fact, Phoenix focused on the magic more than any entries in the series, and featured far less character development and humor. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is, in my opinion, the second best film in the series. It retains much of the heavy dramatic thrust that was Phoenix's strong point, but reincorporates the characters' dealing with growing up, as well as the underlying humor that comes with such agony, just as Goblet did. Unfortunately, the story this time is not nearly as focused as it was in Goblet, and feels very busy and overcrowded at times. I understood what was going on, but feel I will need to watch the movie a second time, right after viewing the previous five, to fully understand it to the point I obviously need to if I am to fully enjoy Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows. It's hard to fault the film, but at this point the world of Harry Potter, as well as its story, has become large and complex, and even at 2.5 hours, the film has to move along a bit too swiftly to cover all the necessary plot points and character developments. If Deathly Hollows is even larger and more complex, as I've heard it is, than the studio has chosen wisely in its decision to split it into two movies. This film's complexity, as well as its requiring a deep knowledge of the Potter universe, ALMOST alienates those who have not read the books, which is not good, and REQUIRES that you've seen all five of the previous films, and that you remember each of them quite well. A truly excellent adaptation should do justice to the source material while simultaneously being able to stand alone as its own separate entity. Despite this major flaw, I still enjoyed this entry immensely. It is by far the most well-acted. The three leads have really grown into their characters to the point where there is never a moment you don't believe their performances to be genuine. As always, Alan Rickman is to be commended for his portrayal of Severus Snape, but he has truly topped himself here, and is now my biggest reason for looking forward to Deathly Hollows. David Yates has also improved as a director dramatically since the previous installment, and stages every scene in this film perfectly. Finally, this may be the most emotionally resonant entry in the film series yet. If you have not enjoyed the Harry Potter film series to this point, than this one certainly isn't for you. If you're a fan, well, I don't believe my recommendation will make any difference. I look forward to the next entry in approximately 18 months.

[ilovemovies]

One thing that went through my mind as the movie opened: why the hell is this movie not aviable in 3D?!

The opening credits and first scene are so unbelievably fucking awesome and I couldn't help but think how much more awesome they would have been if they were in 3D. Hell, they almost FELT 3D-ish.

[Bourne101]

One thing that went through my mind as the movie opened: why the hell is this movie not aviable in 3D?!

The opening credits and first scene are so unbelievably fucking awesome and I couldn't help but think how much more awesome they would have been if they were in 3D. Hell, they almost FELT 3D-ish.

Actually, when it opens in IMAX there will be select scenes in 3D.

[anakinsrise]

As the film adaptations of the Harry Potter series nears its end,the films have focused more on the emotions and plights of the characters than being bogged down with tons of special effects,not saying Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince isnt glorious to look at but it rises above the visuals.
As characters make choices that will effect the rest of their lives,and fall in love HPATHBP is definitely involving,and fun.
Harry(Daniel Radcliffe) is suspicious as ever of Draco(Tom Felton) especially after spotting him having some type of ritual with the death eaters.
Though his friends Ron Weasley(Rupert Grint) Hermione Granger(Emma Watson) write Harry's suspicions off as just being emotional because of his his experience at the Ministry of Magic with Voldemort.
Professor Albus Dumbledore(Michael Gambon great as usual ) wants Harry to know his enemy but also wants to find out some facts about Voldemort himself.So through collected memories Harry views Voldermort as a child and teenager,Tom Riddle played with excellent coldness by Hero Fiennes-Tiffin and Frank Dillane.
The love stories throughout the film are fun and sweet,as the feelings Ron and Hermione have for each other are revealed,and Harry's attraction to Ron's sister Ginny Weasley,and vice versa grow.
Tom Felton is great as the conflicted and pained Draco,i feel he was really given time to shine this time around.Alan Rickman as Severus Snape is great as usual with his halted words and coldness.
I couldnt help but think of the Lord of the Rings series while watching the film.Which is a great compliment to HPATHBP.
Thankfullly the Quidditch matches are brief this time around.The story drags a bit at points.
As usual but even more so as the series is near its end im in hight anticipaton for the next Harry Potter adventure
Scale of 1-10 8 1/2

[ScaryFreak1827]

One thing that went through my mind as the movie opened: why the hell is this movie not aviable in 3D?!

The opening credits and first scene are so unbelievably fucking awesome and I couldn't help but think how much more awesome they would have been if they were in 3D. Hell, they almost FELT 3D-ish.

The first twenty minutes will be in 3D when the movie is released in IMAX next week.

[BlownCamaro]

Just got back from seeing it and I really enjoyed it. No idea how almost 3 hours flew by so fast. I think it is probably the second best of the series but I need to rewatch it again when it is released on DVD to be sure about that.

9/10

[Heisenberg]

Just got back from seeing it myself and wow, colour me impressed. I fucking loved it, lived up to all my expectations. The acting was brilliant, the cinematography was amazing, pretty much everything about the film was grade A. This ties with POA as my favourite Harry Potter film.

10/10

[BlownCamaro]

Man, after having all day to think about it I am depressed. No more Potter for another year. That sux. So much fun waiting for Half Blood to be released. All those early pics and then the sneak preview trailer, then a full trailer, then a clip or two. Now nothing. Sad.

[Danger^Cart]

8/10

Why are there no American wizards? Or really any other nationalies, for that matter (GoF excluded).

[Pentangeli]

8/10

Why are there no American wizards? Or really any other nationalies, for that matter (GoF excluded).

Why would there be?

[BlownCamaro]

Why would there be?


Because Americans are better at everything when compared to the British. Dur!

[Pentangeli]

Hardly.

But I do agree there should be more ethnicity in the recent Potter films. The absence of more Wizard cultures undermines the depiction of Voldemort being an evil threat to all Wizards. At least this is so in the films. Maybe its a matter dealt with in the books.

[Bourne101]

Saw it again today and it was just as brilliant as the first time around.

[Mr.HyDe807]

I'm rereading the novel, then gonna check this flick out either Thursday or Friday afternoon.

[sbunn10]

Ooooo.. I would see the flick first if I were you.. now all of the things left out will be even more pronounced :)

[Mr.HyDe807]

Ooooo.. I would see the flick first if I were you.. now all of the things left out will be even more pronounced :)

I've always been irked about the things left out in all the books, so this one would probably be no different.

I do like the difference in the things I saw in the trailer.

[Danger^Cart]

Why would there be?

Because magic being exclusive to England is racist.

[Pentangeli]

Because magic being exclusive to England is racist.

Are you joking, or has political correctness taken another turn for the worse?

Not that it would be racist to have only English wizards, but we have seen Scottish, Irish, French, Russian, and possibly others i'm overlooking who have been wizards.

[Danger^Cart]

Because magic being exclusive to Eastern Europe and part of Asia is racist.

[bigred760]

If I'm not mistaken, aren't the books and movies set in London? That would explain the predominance of English accents, actors, and characters.

[BlownCamaro]

The American school of Magic is just too badass to capture in book or film thats why.

[g1ng3rsnap9ed]

The American school of Magic is just too badass to capture in book or film thats why.
And because us Americans have drinking parties and orgies at our schools, unlike the (much uncooler) Brittish. :cool:

[Spidey]

Except for the opening scene I thought it was kinda boring.

5/10

[Heisenberg]

If I'm not mistaken, aren't the books and movies set in London? That would explain the predominance of English accents, actors, and characters.

Exactly, this whole debate is pointless. The Godfather lacked english characters.......because it was set in NY. :eek:

We don't need an orgy of nations in movies for them not to be racist.

[Natty]

I think Danger Cart may have been joking but if not then bigred is correct, the book is set in England so the characters are English.

[Heisenberg]

I know he is joking, I just wanted to stomp in anyways :D

[jolanar]

I'm pretty shocked at all the positive reviews it's been getting. It was so dreadfully boring... it just seemed like nothing happened at all until the last 15 minutes. Needed much more action.

Overall very very disappointing and by far the worst one yet.

4/10

[Danger^Cart]

Voldemort is quite often referred to as the potential downfall of all magicdom. If it effects the whole wizard world so profoundly, why aren't other nationalities concerned?

Answer: American wizards would end shit too quickly. Not entertaining enough.

Harry Potter's American counterpart is probably named 'Captain Badass Mcfightpunch' or something. 'Cuz that's just how shit works.

Anyway, can someone tell me why Dumbledore had to drink the contents of the bowl? Why didn't they just pour that shit out.

[adamjohnson]

Anyway, can someone tell me why Dumbledore had to drink the contents of the bowl? Why didn't they just pour that shit out.

It refills if you do. The only way to get rid of it is to drink it.

[Danger^Cart]

Did I just miss that, or did they neglect to mention it in the movie.

[adamjohnson]

Did I just miss that, or did they neglect to mention it in the movie.

Its not really in the movie. Though you can see it's enchanted when Harry tries to fill it with actual water and feed it to Dumbledore, but it wont let him.

[Danger^Cart]

Speaking of which, even before the legions of the damned accosted him, Harry feeding Dumbledore murky cavewater just seemed like a bad idea.

[g1ng3rsnap9ed]

Harry Potter's American counterpart is probably named 'Captain Badass Mcfightpunch' or something. 'Cuz that's just how shit works.
Yup. And Hermoine would be a crack-whore, Ron would be trying to be gangster through the whole thing. Voldemort would be played by Ron Jeremy, and Harry by Jason Statham.

[Dom Shady]

Speaking of which, even before the legions of the damned accosted him, Harry feeding Dumbledore murky cavewater just seemed like a bad idea.

He had no choice but to give him the cavewater. The cup would only accept the cavewater, hence the cleverness in Voldemort's defense of that Horcrux. The potion is supposed to be drunk to gain access to the Horcrux but it makes you weak and insanely thirsty, at which point you have no choice to but drink the cavewater and disturb the Inferi lurking beneath. It was explained better in the book.

[Danger^Cart]

Didn't someone get to the Horcrux before, though? So they replaced all of Voldemort's traps exactly?

And why doesn't Voldemort ever check in on his Horcrux?

[Dom Shady]

Didn't someone get to the Horcrux before, though? So they replaced all of Voldemort's traps exactly?

And why doesn't Voldemort ever check in on his Horcrux?

Yes and I don't know. Maybe the traps replace themselves, it's never explained. But Voldemort doesn't check in on his Horcruxes(sp?) because a) he hadn't had a body for 13 years and b) he doesn't think anybody knows about Horcruxes period, let alone what objects might be one of his and where it may be located. Horcruxes are not a well known subject and his actions regarding them are more or less unprecedented. The odds of somebody figuring out his secret and then penetrating his defenses are probably astronomical to him so he probably feels they're pretty safe. Not to mention that checking on them attracts attention in case he's being followed or whatever. I don't know, I don't think like a crazy dark lord.

[Danger^Cart]

Thanks, I obviously haven't read the books.

I'm just sayin, you'd think Voldemort would be a little more cautious, with the whole world domination thing and all.

[Dom Shady]

Thanks, I obviously haven't read the books.

I'm just sayin, you'd think Voldemort would be a little more cautious, with the whole world domination thing and all.

It's not high on his to-do list.

[adamjohnson]

Thanks, I obviously haven't read the books.

I'm just sayin, you'd think Voldemort would be a little more cautious, with the whole world domination thing and all.

Lets just say that he keeps several of his horcruxes within arms reach.

[Badbird]

I don't know why so many seem to be down on Order of the Phoenix, that was easily my favorite movie of the series.

And this has become my second favorite.

I don't have a whole lot to add. I have never read the books beyond the first one which I read for college, so I can't speak for what was left in and what was left out and what should have been. I think that's irrelevant.

This is just straight up great film making. I really like David Yates's straight-forward way of telling the stories (opposed to the first few which were very show off-y). I took particular notice out the outstanding cinematography. This movie just looks great.

It's definitely the most low key of all the movies, as there really isn't much in the way of action, but this one really broods and simmers perfectly.

I'm only disappointed that the ending was spoiled for me a long time ago; I would have really liked to have gone in with a clean slate.

[jolanar]

I'm only disappointed that the ending was spoiled for me a long time ago; I would have really liked to have gone in with a clean slate.

Ya that is kind of a shame. I would love to know my reaction seeing that in the theaters for the first time, not having any clue what was going to happen.

[LordSimen]

Next to Azkaban, this is definitely one of my favorites of the Potter flick. I really didn't find the ending anti-climactic itself. Most of the movie played out like a drama anyway, so when the end came along it just fit with the tone of everything else that happened. The emotional ending just felt right as opposed to the action-packed one.

[Z_oasis]

Great story but not enough action to keep the pace from dragging, which it DID. Felt forever for it to finish, same thing happening: Harry goes to D for service, Hermoine Crying and the most repetitive thing is Malfoy and his cabinet, i mean COME ONE, we got it after the 7th time!!!

Very anti-climatic, if they wanted to do the whole (More dramatic story tone than action) then they should've cut out 30 minutes. Very "meh" when the credits rolled.

3/5

[Abbie Normal]

I have read all the books and I just saw The Half Blood Prince. I am very disappointed. How you judge this movie seems to be based on those who did and those who did not read the book.

Those who did not read the book seem to like these movies. Those who did read the books are disappointed. Why? Because they fuck up all the great parts. At least they did for the last two for me. To say I hated this movie is just not right. I enjoyed it, but it should have been so much more. I feel that the next two will not live up to expectations.

I don't know who to blame. Yates or Kloves. I am more inclined to blame Yates as Kloves has written all of the Harrys and they have not sucked until Yates. Yates has no clue how to direct a fight scene. The man is clueless. The best scenes from the last three books are all about the wizard fights. In The Half Blood Prince at the end when

Spoilers


the Death Eaters are in Hogwarts, there was supposed to be a huge fight between themselves and many of the students and members of the Order of the Phoenix. There was no fight. One of the Death Eaters stunned a wizard and they all ran out of the castle. Why? Yates could not make the movie last 2 minutes longer and give us a fight scene? That is the biggest problem I have with the movie.

There are actually a few boring parts. The whole scene in the cave was boring as fuck. It was supposed to be suspenseful. There was no suspense built or achieved.

I am going to make this a rant.

7/10

[Bourne101]

Those who did read the books are disappointed. Why? Because they fuck up all the great parts.

See Monotreme's thread in the Rant section. And I have read all of the books and love them to death, but I was not disappointed with this entry. In fact, the only entry I was disappointed with was Azkaban, the one everyone seems to love.

Yates has no clue how to direct a fight scene.

I beg to differ. There have been a couple of REALLY good fight scenes in the last two entries (both directed by Yates).

[Jig Saw 123]

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

I was one of the few who welcomed Yates return. I thought Order of the Phoenix was a worthy entry into this already rocking series. The fight scene between Dumbledore and Voldemort was short, but effective and absolutely stunning. Coming into the Half-Blood Prince I could already see the darker tone the film would eventually take throughout the course of the film. It's amazing how this film was PG yet it feels more PG-13 than Phoenix. The entire romantic aspect of the film was a nice touch and shows somewhat of the surface of teenage sex acts. Most of the stuff is mentioned in the film, but replaced with code names like just "kissing".

Alan Rickman and Michael Gambon are definitely the true stars of this film. Every time they appear on screen they immediately steal the show. I would honestly say the last 20 minutes of the film are the best. With Harry and Dumbledore traveling in the cave to recover the locket and Snape killing Dumbledore (you could tell it was hard for him to) than Harry following Snape to discover he is the half-blooded prince.

True its missing a lot from the book, but that's to be expected now that we're on the sixth entry. It served its purpose of setting up the pieces of Voldemort's final strike. I am excited about the Deathly Hallows especially given that its split into two parts.

8.5/10 Honestly the best film of the summer thus far.

[Abbie Normal]

See Monotreme's thread in the Rant section. And I have read all of the books and love them to death, but I was not disappointed with this entry. In fact, the only entry I was disappointed with was Azkaban, the one everyone seems to love.

I did. Thank you. :)



I beg to differ. There have been a couple of REALLY good fight scenes in the last two entries (both directed by Yates).


That is ok. We do not have to agree. The fight scenes in the book were done much better and that is really sad for the movies.

How can you excuse the total lack of a fight scene at the end in Hogwarts? It was a huge fight in the book. A total letdown at the end of the movie.

I also did not care for Harry hiding when Dumbledore was killed. In the book, Dumbledore stunned Harry, so he could not do anything. Worked better this way. In the movie, Harry comes bad to me.

[g1ng3rsnap9ed]

I also did not care for Harry hiding when Dumbledore was killed. In the book, Dumbledore stunned Harry, so he could not do anything. Worked better this way. In the movie, Harry comes bad to me.
*Hasn't read the books
Yeah, that would definitely be a lot better than what they did in the film. The whole time I was like "why don't you put a spell on them!? Or just do something, anything!!?" And I don't really think it was characteristically acurate for Harry to just stand by.

[Jig Saw 123]

I did. Thank you. :)

That is ok. We do not have to agree. The fight scenes in the book were done much better and that is really sad for the movies.

How can you excuse the total lack of a fight scene at the end in Hogwarts? It was a huge fight in the book. A total letdown at the end of the movie.

I also did not care for Harry hiding when Dumbledore was killed. In the book, Dumbledore stunned Harry, so he could not do anything. Worked better this way. In the movie, Harry comes bad to me.

I think the fight scenes in the book are written terribly compared to the films. Most recently in the Deathly Hallows when Voldemort dies. I hope they drastically change that in the film.

[Jig Saw 123]

*Hasn't read the books
Yeah, that would definitely be a lot better than what they did in the film. The whole time I was like "why don't you put a spell on them!? Or just do something, anything!!?" And I don't really think it was characteristically acurate for Harry to just stand by.

But the way it was shot it didn't appear Harry knew what was going to happen. He made Dumbledore a promise. Throughout the entire film he questions Dumbledore's judgment and wisdom, especially at the Weasley's home. I think he was about to intervene, but Snape appears behind him and tells him to be quiet. At this moment Harry probably assumed Snape would help defend Dumbledore that's why when he chases after Snape along with the other death eaters he calls him a coward.

If it was done like it was in the book than it wouldn't make much sense because Harry didn't have the invisibility cloak and him trusting Dumbledore gave a overall emotional wrap up to their relationship.

[adamjohnson]

I did. Thank you. :)


That is ok. We do not have to agree. The fight scenes in the book were done much better and that is really sad for the movies.

How can you excuse the total lack of a fight scene at the end in Hogwarts? It was a huge fight in the book. A total letdown at the end of the movie.

I also did not care for Harry hiding when Dumbledore was killed. In the book, Dumbledore stunned Harry, so he could not do anything. Worked better this way. In the movie, Harry comes bad to me.

There is no fight scene in the book. Everything was TOLD to Harry by Ron and Hermione. The only time Harry even sees it is when he's running out after Snape.

Besides that, Yates has gone on record saying he wants the battle of hogwarts to be saved for the final film. Having two big battles in Hogwarts would be repetitive.

[ScaryFreak1827]

There honestly wasn't that much of a battle in the Half-Blood Prince book; Harry is told what happened during the 'battle' the next day by others. Deathly Hallows Part II has a 30-minute battle at Hogwarts so it's clear Yates doesn't want the battle to seem redundant and seem fresh/exciting in that film.

As for Harry not reacting during the Astronomy Tower sequence, he was under orders from Dumbledore and had to obey/trust him. He even put his faith in Snape which made it all the more shocking for him when the deed is carried out. Not to mention he wouldn't have stood a chance against those death eaters (despite his futile attempts to track down Snape later.)

[Abbie Normal]

There is no fight scene in the book. Everything was TOLD to Harry by Ron and Hermione. The only time Harry even sees it is when he's running out after Snape.

Besides that, Yates has gone on record saying he wants the battle of hogwarts to be saved for the final film. Having two big battles in Hogwarts would be repetitive.

So it was his call to make the end of the movie boring as fuck. Two big battles in Hogwarts would be repetitive? What a crock! I guess using the invisibility cloak in every movie is repetitive too? Harry battling Voldemort in more than one movie is also repetitive.

As for Harry not reacting during the Astronomy Tower sequence, he was under orders from Dumbledore and had to obey/trust him. He even put his faith in Snape which made it all the more shocking for him when the deed is carried out. Not to mention he wouldn't have stood a chance against those death eaters (despite his futile attempts to track down Snape later.)

I don't know why they decided to change this part from the book. In the history of all the books, Harry never listened to authority, including Dumbledore before. Why should he contain himself when his mentor is killed by the person he hates the most in Hogwarts, because the second person he hates could not do it. If Harry was able to contain himself during the killing, why does he then go after Snape afterward. If he were stunned like in the book, it would have been more believable.

[Abbie Normal]

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is an intoxicating potion of teenage hormones and evil spirits. Both are raging.If Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is a roller coaster, it's the tiny train meant for only the very youngest kids, the one that seems to go round and round forever without really ever picking up any pace.

Here is the link for online watch...
Movie on Demand (http://www.telekomx.mobi/lp2/iwaay/)

Spam

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_eYSuPKP3Y

[ScaryFreak1827]

Anybody see this in IMAX? I hear the first twenty minutes or so are in 3D... I hope to see it there soon.

[chawwal]

Loved This Movie....
For Those Who Cannot Buy It...Download It From Here:
http://www.friendskonnection.com/forum/hollywood/18853-harry-potter-half-blood-prince-high-download-speed.html

[3dfan]

Next to Azkaban, this is definitely one of my favorites of the Potter flick. I really didn't find the ending anti-climactic itself. Most of the movie played out like a drama anyway, so when the end came along it just fit with the tone of everything else that happened. The emotional ending just felt right as opposed to the action-packed one.
I also think so, and I really enjoyed the ending because didn't read the book waiting for the movie :)
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love red wine (http://www.wine-it.com/) )

[Mr.HyDe807]

The film adaptations of the Harry Potter series is sort of a love/hate relationship for me. On one hand, the movie nail the central themes that occur in the movie, but I hate it when there are the little things that are left out. Now, obviously, I know the entire book can't be put in the movie, though I had that mind set when the movies first started to come out. Now, older and (I hope) somewhat more passive on that sort of thing, the movies are enjoyable. So, going into the newest Potter flick, I went in figuring that and came out enjoying the movies, though there were certain things that sort of irked me.

The movie follows the titular character Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), the boy who is a wizard attending the wizard school of Hogwarts, while also fighting the antagonist known as Voldemort, who is responsible for the deaths of his parents, but the inability to actually kill Potter as a child. In this part of the book series, Potter is helping out the headmaster of Hogwarts Albus Dumbledore finding the secret towards how Voldemort was able to survive after being killed by the rebounding curse that was meant for Harry. The answer lies in Horace Slughorn (Jim Broadbent), a man who previously was a professor at Hogwarts and may have been the person who gave Voldemort/Tom Riddle the key towards a longer life. There are other happenings that occur throughout the movie, such as the wizarding world being under attack by Voldemort and his minions known as the Death Eaters, as well as possible romances that are occurring with Harry, as well as his two friends Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint).

The actors on hand were good, with Radcliffe, Watson, and Grint playing the parts of Harry, Hermione, and Ron fine. Michael Gambon improved as Albus Dumbledore, playing the more subdued and passive aspect of the novel, as opposed to showing more emotion. Alan Rickman is still awesome as Severus Snape, playing him with uptight and venomous attitude. I hope is able to shine in the Deathly Hallows with what is written in the book. Tom Felton plays the morally conflicted Draco Malfoy great, a rival Hogwarts student of Harry Potter who is supposedly tasked by Voldemort for a sinister plan. Jim Broadbent plays a great embodiment of Horace Slughorn, enacting the character's reliance on the past mistakes, as well as his connections with the Hogwarts students who have gone on to be famous.

The movie follows the plot from the book well, though it does give the "Half Blood Prince book" storyline sort of a backseat, making it's final revelation at the end to not have any impact. I enjoyed the romance triangle of Ron/Hermione/Lavender, though I was disappointed with Harry and Ron's sister Ginny's blossoming romance, which was my favorite. There were parts that I enjoyed that conveyed Harry's increased attraction to Ginny, but the payoff seemed a bit lackluster. Not that I wanted it exactly like the book, I just wanted something a little bit more.

Yet, with those shortcomings, I did enjoy the central plot with Albus and Harry, and they definitely set things pretty well up for the next book. I know the big scene from the book happened differently in terms of it's played out, but I really enjoyed one character seeing the other at the end when it finally happened. The movie seemed to be pretty conflicting, with some things that were sort of lacking, there were something that kept it in check and enjoyable.

So, overall, I thought it was a pretty good addition to the Harry Potter film series. Sure, some things could have been more fleshed out, rather than just being there, but what was shown on screen was definitely a enjoyable book-to-film adaptation.

8.5/10