Review of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002) by Stephen Z — 05 Aug 2014

As one of my favorite of the Harry Potter books, I had high hopes for "The Chamber of Secrets". And with Chris Columbus back in the director's chair, I had even higher hopes. I was not disappointed.

"The Chamber of Secrets" is an entertaining and faithful interpretation of Rowling's second Potter novel. "The Chamber of Secrets" brings the series into maturity by raising the stakes significantly from Harry's last outing. The fun is more fun. The action is more intense. And the danger is much more real. The movie really hits its stride in the action. This is especially true of the scene in the Forbidden Forest. Finally, I want to compliment Kenneth Branagh, who brilliantly portrays Gilderoy Lockhart.

The best way to rate this film is by comparing it to the book. If you enjoyed "The Chamber of Secrets" novel, you will definitely enjoy its film counterpart. And though this film lacks the darker tone of the later movies, it more than makes up for it with the fun and excitement you would expect from the adventures of a 12-year-old wizard coming into his own. I recommend "The Chamber of Secrets" to anyone who is a fan of the books. And to anyone who isn't a fan of the books, I recommend you become a fan, fast!