Review of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001) by Joshua B — 15 Jul 2013

While it is only a pale shadow of what will come later in the series, this film introduction to Harry Potter by director Chris Columbus and writer Steve Kloves does a fine job capturing the magic of JK Rowling's novel and an equally fine job of introducing viewers to the rich mythology of the Potter universe. While story-wise, it is one of the weaker entries in the series, it serves its purpose of setting up the characters within this world, and the film does a fine job with casting across the board. There are the usual problems with child acting, but the fun of this film is less in the acting and more in the spectacle. These kids have seven more films to grow into their own.

Some of the visual effects look dated now, a decade after the film's release, but the film as a whole holds up. The magic of Hogwarts and Harry's humble beginnings are captured with a gentle whimsy by Columbus and accented by the legendary John Williams' score. Think of the previous Columbus/Williams collaboration, the Christmas classic, Home Alone, and you will have an idea of the tone of this film, and its appeal for both children and adults.

"Yer a wizard, Harry." This kid is going places.