Review of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) by Ryan H — 03 Jul 2014

Being the first film in what would become an 8 film franchise, it's shortcomings can be forgiven. It's not so much an adaptation of the book as it is an exact translation- you might as well just read the book and avoid the sometimes mediocre child acting.

Many of the special effects have actually held up quite well, with two major exceptions- the ghost that haunt Hogwarts, and any scene involving flying on a broomstick. Fortunately, the films only get better from here.