Review of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010) by Eric M — 29 May 2015

Unfortunately hampered by a confusing and unfocused narrative structure, a sad effect of the mishandling of its prelude function, "Part 1" is almost redeemed by it's charming cast of characters and some powerful landscape cinematography.

Also, a graveyard/Christmas scene as Harry visits the site of his parents' deaths with Hermione is surprisingly and achingly beautiful. Overall, however, the film drags on as the story throws seemingly random plot devices at the viewer, threatening to confuse and befuddle rather than intrigue.

There really isn't any clear purpose other than to move some pieces into position for the finale, and the film squanders the propulsive momentum of "Half-Blood Prince". I still look forward to seeing the ultimate conclusion, as I'm invested enough in the characters to not mind this bump in the road too much, but suffice to say that, aside from a few beautiful glimpses into the greater mythos (like the glorious 'Three Brothers' story), "Deathly Hallows Part 1" is the first Potter film to have disappointed me.