Review of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004) by Matthew A — 15 Feb 2015

Three films in, and we're still going strong. Even changing directors (from Chris Columbus to Alfonso Cuaron) can't stop this juggernaut of excellent films.

Once again, Steve Kloves' script keeps very close to the book. While the director added in new elements, both good (clock motif) and questionable (overly exaggerated Ron-Hermione shipping), the film still feels very much like the first two, albeit with a darker tone (which the book also creates, so good job on that).

I am now enjoying the child actors more, as they have both literally and figuratively grown into their roles. Daniel Radcliffe really shows Harry on the cusp of adolescence, with emotions beginning to run high and a desperate need to fit in. Rupert Grint is at his best in this film, playing both bumbling fool, and loyal team member. Emma Watson really hit her stride here, and the future is nothing but bright for her.

We also have some new additions. Michael Gambon had a tremendously difficult job replacing the late Richard Harris as Dumbledore, but I was pleased to see that he did not try to copy his predecessor, but rather forge a new path. David Thewlis is a little leering as Lupin, but it matches with his character, so I enjoy it. Gary Oldman is genuinely scary in his big reveal as Sirius Black, but when the character changes towards the film's end, he really sells it.

This is also John Williams' last time writing the score, and he really brings it home. "Double Trouble" creates the perfect tone for the film, and "Buckbeak's Flight" is used well at the beginning and end. Sirius' theme was woven in so subtly, I didn't even notice it until this time watching the movie, and I have owned the soundtrack for five years. Bravo, John Williams, bravo.

Considered by many to be one of the best in the franchise, I have to say that the tone, acting, and structure of the whole film is very well-done. Some big changes are coming to the series, and this is the last film of the original mold.