We went to see Harry Potter yesterday as part of our anniversary celebration !
It was excellent. I haven't seen a movie in a long time that was as faithful to the book. In a way, I don't think the director could get away with anything less. As adults we must be too complacant when movies mess around with the written story. Kids would be outraged if it was any other way. And I suppose too since SO MANY kids have read these books there is no other choice.
They had to leave a few scenes out of course otherwise we would still BE at the movies, but they were not essential to the plot. More and more the technology available to filmakers is opening up the possibility of creating virtually ANYTHING you can think of. And I suppose that for a visual medium, that is a good thing. BUT the richness of our inner creative place is certainly quicker and cheaper than filmaking. For in a few seconds, we can conjure up a fictional place complete with a plethora of detail. That is why writing is so powerful.
The reader gets to fill in any blank places with things of his or her own, and of course even change the interpretation of the description. In that way we become part of the creative process. We work a little too. It's why reading is such a *virtuous" activity :-)
It was excellent. I haven't seen a movie in a long time that was as faithful to the book. In a way, I don't think the director could get away with anything less. As adults we must be too complacant when movies mess around with the written story. Kids would be outraged if it was any other way. And I suppose too since SO MANY kids have read these books there is no other choice.
They had to leave a few scenes out of course otherwise we would still BE at the movies, but they were not essential to the plot. More and more the technology available to filmakers is opening up the possibility of creating virtually ANYTHING you can think of. And I suppose that for a visual medium, that is a good thing. BUT the richness of our inner creative place is certainly quicker and cheaper than filmaking. For in a few seconds, we can conjure up a fictional place complete with a plethora of detail. That is why writing is so powerful.
The reader gets to fill in any blank places with things of his or her own, and of course even change the interpretation of the description. In that way we become part of the creative process. We work a little too. It's why reading is such a *virtuous" activity :-)
I think this movie is a great one for kids to see. Even though I do have one gripe. And I had it with the book too. Harry Ron and Hermione keep important secrets to themselves, when they should probably let the adults handle the situation. And even when asked directly, by Dumbledoor, a person they respect highly, they don't confide information. This is puzzling to me.
However, the best line in the movie is when Dumbledoor says to Harry,
(I paraphrase) It's not so important what our abilities are, but what our choices are. Very nice concept for kids, or anyone for that matter.
Anyhoo, if you were on the fence about seeing the film, I say go for it.
I don't think you will be disappointed.
One woman's opinion. :-)