Review of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) by Charlie H — 12 Feb 2018

Harry Potter is my favourite book series of all time. It beats out such luminaries as the Middle-Earth and Game of Thrones books. They are insanely rereadable, packing full of entrancing story, awesome characters, and so many Easter eggs, I don't think humanity has managed to figure them all out yet. I know there are seven of them, but seriously, read the books before you see the movies.

The film adaptation of the first book is very true to its source material. Yes, some of the subplots are cut out, and yes, the dialogue is streamlined and loses a lot of the whimsy that makes the book so incredible. It's still a really fun watch, and seeing it again after so many years reminds me why I love this series so much.

I don't feel qualified to judge the acting of the kids in this movie. Acting is hard, and when it's something of this scope, it's tough to do. I'm going to wait a couple films before I pass judgment. The adults, however, I am more than happy to judge. Peter Griffiths and Fiona Shaw do wonderfully as the Dursleys; you love to hate them, which is the whole point of those characters. Richard Harris is Dumbledore just as I pictured him in the books. Alan Rickman sets the mood for Snape wonderfully, while Maggie Smith dominates as McGonagall. Robbie Coltrane does very well as Hagrid, showing both his compassion and occasional bumbling. Also, keep an eye out for some other well-known actors in small parts, such as John Hurt as Ollivander, and John Cleese as Nearly Headless Nick.

John Williams provides an absolutely magical score here. The famous "Hedwig's Theme" is heard both softly and loudly, and we get great motifs for Hogwarts, Voldemort, Quidditch, and even the chess game.

It is a touching, well-designed story that will appeal to viewers young and old alike. Thank you, J. K. Rowling, from all your fans.