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I have seen on the website that the Harry Potter movie will be released on the 16th November 2001.
at long last.
Seems the website is slow with its own news! This release date has been set for months!
BTW the world premiere is in Edinburgh on November 6th.
Originally posted by Blenky
BTW the world premiere is in Edinburgh on November 6th.
Woohoo! Actually I think the film is going to be awful - C.C. hasn't really been convincing since Home Alone I. Even John Williams score is *shock horror* nothing amazing.
johnbown
21-10-2001, 22:44
i also read that CC first cut was a whopping 4 hours long as he wanted to remain totally faithfull to the book.
WB execs told him to cut it in half.
guess that means they'll be a delux gold plated directors cut 3 DVD edition complete with 'intermission' (5 months after the collectors edition)
MrLondon
22-10-2001, 14:58
They have already now published that the film will do previews in Slough (yes I know) the weekend before at 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm,1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4 pm, 5pm, 6 pm, 7pm, 8 pm, 9pm, 10 pm and Saturday 11pm. So That means 31 perforances as a preview. This has never happened before in such a small town. I was shocked when I saw this. They want to break any record have made in the Cinema history. That will be something.
MrLondon
ethanfox
24-10-2001, 19:14
I just can't wait - despite CC being a moderate talent - the books have been adapted by Steve Kloves who is IMO a great writer, the casting looks good and as for Williams and his perfect 5th based scores....he might break his dull run.....
Not long to wait....
There are previews on the 10/11th Nov also.
Our cinema has 6 prints!
It will be on almost every 30mins!
According to some reports the pre-booked seats for it are exceeding that of Star Wars E1 TPM!
Finally it got it's certificate Monday...PG..as expected...and it is a wopping 2h 32min long...having been cut down from over 4 hours!
This one is gonna be huge....I don't think Im gonna recover...after the dust from this releasxe settles we will have....Lord of the Rings!!! :eek: :(
:D
DVDWotcha
25-10-2001, 14:07
Two things:
1. I hope Harry potter is not so successful that it takes prescidence in the main screens when LOTR is released.
2. From the trailers I've seen Harry's hair is a very neat bowl cut, where as in the books his hair is said to be permanently messy. I've nothing against minor changes etc that are required to translate the book onto the screen, but to completely change a core detail for no reason is completely stupid.
How is his haircut a core detail? I don't remember anything in the books where it's relevant :confused: Personally, I always imagined him with a bowl cut anyway - he's a bit of a dweeb after all.
AdamBrunt
26-10-2001, 20:04
Originally posted by yaffle
How is his haircut a core detail? I don't remember anything in the books where it's relevant :confused: Personally, I always imagined him with a bowl cut anyway - he's a bit of a dweeb after all.
It is a 'core' detail in that it is mentioned in EVERY book as being of the wild and unmanageable type. Also, why did you imagine him to a have bowl cut when the book clearly states it is anything but ??? ... you'd be no good in identifying a suspect on Crimewatch would you ;)
Ol' Blue Eyes
27-10-2001, 00:59
I'm amazed at the length of this film. Are the core audience of 5 to 12 year olds really going to sit still for two and a half hours, even for Harry Potter? There's a good reason Disney films clock in under 90 minutes.
I agree with Ethanfox that Steve Kloves is the main reason to hold out hope for this. Of course, he's never written a kid's film! Columbus's last half-decent effort was Mrs Doubtfire. That, Home Alone and Adventures In Babysitting are the only films he's done which are even bearable. Hmmm, I'll reserve judgement but I'm not getting my hopes up.
there's a few reviews now popping up, there's a link at aintitcool. the opinion is it's very good even if you haven't read the books
Cap'n Al
27-10-2001, 15:31
I think it's going to be excellent; yes, Columbus was a bad choice as director, but Steve Kloves is an excellent screenwriter, the cast is fantastic, and Rowling's heavy involvement (and the long running time) all bode very well indeed.
And I saw it being filmed....:)
MrLondon I will cyu there m8.
Cant wait for the film and if my daughter asks me I might even take her to see it as well;)
Cheers.
DJ.
when i heard that Chris Columbus was going to direct this film i was a bit worried since this man has ruined many a film.
BUT i now have higher hopes since reading about JK's heavy involvement in the film (ie she wouldnt let Chris Columbus do what he wanted - YAY!). She's sure to keep the film closely related to the book and hopefully with some good performances the film should be good.
sharp_circle
30-10-2001, 22:08
Originally posted by AdamBrunt
It is a 'core' detail in that it is mentioned in EVERY book as being of the wild and unmanageable type. Also, why did you imagine him to a have bowl cut when the book clearly states it is anything but ??? ... you'd be no good in identifying a suspect on Crimewatch would you ;)
Sorry but I agree with the other guy.....it isn't a core detail at all......and the fact that its a bowl cut surley says it is unmanagable:)
Originally posted by ethanfox
....he (John Williams) might break his dull run.....
Which dull run was this, ethan? Some dull films to be sure (Stepmom, Episode I), some not so dull (AI), but no dull scores!
Having now listened to the score umpteen times (in the knowledge that JW often gives great scores to bad films, never average scores to great films), I think the film is still going to be way below par.
I made the same 'below par' prediction on AI though. So, you know, take everything I say with a handful of salt (most of you do anyway)! :)
There's reports on the news that advance screenings have ending in standing ovations!
Whether it's true or not don't know, but the girly's dragging me to go see this one. Does look good though
Originally posted by Bolch
There's reports on the news that advance screenings have ending in standing ovations!
Every film I've ever seen has been met with a standing ovation at the end! :)
Even if this is true, it's not unusual for advance screenings / premieres. Check out the audience reaction to the US Hannibal premiere on the DVD Disc 2!
I saw an advance screening of Planet of The Apes, which was met with huge applause afterwards. Make of that what you will!
I honestly hope it's a great film, for the kids if nothing else.
10/11/01
Screen 5
17:00
What can I say I bought the tickets yesterday and Myself,My Girlfriend and our daughter cant wait .
:D :D :D :D :D :D :D
Having read all the books and half way through reading the first one to my Daughter its makes a change not to have to take Her to see some dodgy kids film.Having said that the last film I took Her to see was Shrek so theres hope.
Any one know when the DVD is coming out and all the relevant specs.
I know that you can already pre-order its from Ringos but I will have to see it first to see if it is worth caning my cc yet again.
DJ.
Davester
02-11-2001, 01:40
Apparently the lads voice broke during filming!! They had to use a voiceover.
I am going (alone) 20:35 saturday 10h. I can't wait.
:clap:
Panavision
02-11-2001, 20:07
I'll wait for the DVD. :nuts:
WiggyWog
02-11-2001, 21:30
Potter won in a comparison to LOTR in the sun today, id have to disagree being a LOTR buff :D, and is anyone else getting really sick of the hype, merchandise etc. ? maybe its just me, but all this detracts from the film, whichb I`m quite looking forward too.
Oh, and Btw, this doesnt really belong in this thread but whats the point in Advance screenings? If a movies release date is a certain date why advance it to a week before? Obviously the movie isnt any different is it? just gets on my nerves.
Well you can count me out. From the trailer looks like any of a dozen kids special effects movies. Don't see the what is going to make this such a BIG hit other than the fact it has a narrow demographic (ie kids)
TimJBart
04-11-2001, 09:10
grrrrr harry @@@@face potter!!!?!?! a buncj of kids running around doing spells, how boring is that gonna be!!?
god i hate that kid
coolsmithuk
04-11-2001, 21:53
Just got my tickets for UCI Poole on 11/11/01 at 4:30pm, I'm sure it'll be a good movie thats been woth the wait :)
APPRIA40WR
04-11-2001, 22:34
Although this is not entirely http://members.tripod.co.uk/uploadimages/official4.gif the film looks like an awful Americanised English story re-Americanised with mechanically extracted US TV style production values and edited into a pile of smeg. Nice DVD package no doubt.
I could be wrong, though.
APPRIA40WR I hope you are wrong as the prospect of some cheesy Americanised pile of smeg fills me with:eek: but most of the reports seem Very good.And the fact that JKR insisted on English actors,English locations hopefuly will make for a good film.
I dont fall into the target audience;) but the books have been as good as the hype would let you believe.My 6 year old Daughter cant wait to see it and most of the hype has come from me.
It reminds me of when I was a kid waiting for STAR WARS to come to town.I just hope that I won't be as irratating now as I was then having read the book before seeing the film.I WAS that Child who kept saying what happens next:D
As for the Quidditch Match well ...............
I agree that the DVD with as many extras as possible;including Rik Mayell,should be worth waiting for.
DJ.
DVDWotcha
05-11-2001, 09:54
They showed some clips of the movie on breakfast TV this morning and I have to say it looked good. Lorraine Kelly said she was at the premier and thought it was great, "believe all the hype". She also said that people who have read the book will not be dissapointed.
So, we shall see eh ?
APPRIA40WR
05-11-2001, 11:48
If Lorraine Kelly said it was good then it's gotta be great! :rolleyes:
:D
craig@rewind
05-11-2001, 12:48
:D :nuts:
DVDWotcha
05-11-2001, 16:33
Yeah, I wouldn't trust Lorraine Kelly much either, but:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/reviews/newsid_1638000/1638623.stm
Spooky_uk
05-11-2001, 21:31
Originally posted by Blenky
Seems the website is slow with its own news! This release date has been set for months!
BTW the world premiere is in Edinburgh on November 6th.
Feeling a little FOOLISH now ? Sunday was Nov 4th, and London not Edinburgh...
:D :D :D
Dan is Fat
05-11-2001, 21:40
My best friend (whose dad owns bloomsberry books, the publishers of the harry potter novels) went to the premiere, and said that he was really pleased with it. He said it was great, especially the Quidditch. I personally think it will be great. Of course the book will be better, when is there a case when the books are worse than the film (RHETORICAL QUESTION, DONT DEBATE PLEASE) and there will be changes, but i dont think it will be americanized since the entire cast is English, appart from Richard Harris who is Irish. And even the auther, JK herself, who is apparently quite picky was very satisfied with it.
Mr Vampire
06-11-2001, 01:21
All we're waiting for now is the review by Michael Brookes :D
APPRIA40WR
06-11-2001, 06:31
Who dat?
Originally posted by Mr Vampire
All we're waiting for now is the review by Michael Brookes :D
Why bother, he'll probably only watch the trailer or the first 20 minutes as with EP1 and say it's rubbish because no doubt he hates the director too! :zzz:
i'll certainly be reviewing it on saturday :D
APPRIA40WR
06-11-2001, 08:19
i'll certainly be reviewing it on saturday
I'm on tenterhooks! :D
Dan is Fat: (whose dad owns bloomsberry books, the publishers of the harry potter novels)
Here Dan you dropped this... /bends down to pick up name.
Creamstick
06-11-2001, 08:40
Originally posted by Dan is Fat
.. but i dont think it will be americanized since the entire cast is English, appart from Richard Harris who is Irish. And even the auther, JK herself, who is apparently quite picky was very satisfied with it.
Yes, it features that well known englishman Robbie Coltrane.... Oh Dan... ;)
Off to see it this Saturday, ahem, I mean taking my 2 sons to see it Saturday :D
THX 1138
08-11-2001, 23:08
Well i saw it tonight and have to say "WOW" very good!
I was not expecting much really and have not read the books, but i was pleasantly surprised with this film. It is no world beater but is a very good enjoyable 2hrs odd.
8 out of 10.:clap:
Zorro
Off to see it this Saturday, ahem, I mean taking my 2 sons to see it Saturday
Admit it m8 you want to see it as much as I do:D
I'm off to see it tommorrow can't wait:clap:
DJ.
Watched HP last night :p, all in all an ejoyable film. The effects are quite impressive and help make an enjoyable family film. IMHO 2 1/2 hours was too long, and the ending a little dissapointing. How true it is to the books I cannot comment, but worthy of 7 1/2 outta 10 :)
Gary Couzens
09-11-2001, 19:20
My review is now up at DVD Times here (http://www.dvdtimes.org.uk/getcinemareview.cgi?id=52). And it's a thumbs up from me.
2 hours to go.OOOOOOOOOOOOO.
I'm excited by the way.
I'll give it the thumbs up or thumbs down later.
Cheers.
DJ.
camino_real
10-11-2001, 18:32
Well I went to an 11.00 showing at Didsbury, UCG cinema with my trusty Unlimited card. Thought it would be sold out but there were qute a few seats available. I was worried in case the large number of children would talk all the way through the film and spoil my enjoyment. I need not have worried, except for some of the smaller ones needing toilet breaks the crowd were good as gold.
As for the film, well I'm relieved to say that it works. Columbus has left the Englishness of the book intact and has not smothered the film in Hollywood sentimentality. It is also astonishingly faithful to the letter and tone of the novel. Sure, events have been telescoped and the films pacing is a little uneven but it had me enthralled for two and a half hours.
Best actors were Maggie Smith (what she can do with just a look), Robbie Coltrane and Alan Rickman (born to play Snape). It's good that the child stars more than hold their own. It's interesting to see how Harry himself is more of a reactive character for the first half of the film and slowly develops into a leader during the second half.
The only problem is the ending and that's not the films fault. The books climax is not a cinematic one and doesn't translate well onto film. All in all good fun and I'm sure Potter mad kids will enjoy it.
deftone666
10-11-2001, 22:35
Went to see this tonight with my Potter mad girlfriend who assures me,apart from countless omissions from the book,it was an excellent adaptaion.Myself,for a 2 1/2 hour long film it went really quick and I did enjoy it,the pacing is superb except for the first half hour or so.
10/10 from the missus
8/10 from someone who's never read the book.
Originally posted by THX 1138
Well i saw it tonight and have to say "WOW" very good!
I was not expecting much really and have not read the books, but i was pleasantly surprised with this film. It is no world beater but is a very good enjoyable 2hrs odd.
8 out of 10.:clap:
I agree with almost everthing but
91/2 out of 10
:clap:
:clap:
:D
:D
Well, I have to disagree with most here, I didn't enjoy it :(
That was not so much that it wasn't true to the book, it was and I can accept there's stuff that need to be edited out, if anything there was not enough cut out. Subsequently, the pacing is all wrong, taking huge shortcuts then dwelling on trivial stuff. The bad guy story is not efficently explained (I know it isn't in the book either but at least you understand that/why he's so feared, not here).
the direction is uninspired though the acting is generally good, the kids not too annoying or hammy, on average. adults don't have much to do though and I can't imagine Alan Rickman (v.good though not much of a stretch for him!) sticking to it for many more.
I know a film NEVER lives up to the book and I can agree to disagree on choices made storywise.
but the Special FX, whether CGI or not, are BAD. some are ok (Fluffy, Norbert and the castle interiors), but a lot are really baaad (Centaurus, Quidditch game, final scene) . like if the film was made 20 years ago. There's NO excuse for that. And it put me right out of the movie. SFX should look real, not even be noticeable if possible.
It doesn't bod well for the following film, even if ILM will be in charge of the SFX this time; it's due to be released in a year and they barely have started shooting. Another rush job!
I give it 5/10, and that's because I'm a HP fan. One thing for sure, not many adults will be tempted to read the books on the basis of the film..which is a shame because they'll be missing a d*mn good story :D
I have never read the books, so I can't do nook to film comparisons, on if it better or not.
But as a stand alone film, I thought it was great, its not perfect but is really enjoyable, I thought it was about the right length, even though some of the characters were only in it briefly in glorified cameos, and I suppose it sets up the other instalments.
The story isn't very original and borrows heavily from so many other places, but that does not bother me, as many other great films have done, the same and as long as the end product is good, and it does not take its self to be original its all fine.
Anyway great entertainment, 8/10.
The Allmighty
11-11-2001, 14:36
Just got back from seeing the film with my daughter (8) and my wife.
Hard pushed to say who enjoyed it most out of the three of us. We all thought it was wonderful entertainment (and I loved the "Diagon Alley" sequence). It had faults, but not many. Go and enjoy it!
Dan is Fat
11-11-2001, 16:57
Just got back from seeing it, I thought it was great.
Especially the Quidditch.
The only bit that annoyed me was the "hermione" character, i thought she over acted a bit, but i thought the effects were amazing.
coolsmithuk
11-11-2001, 19:18
Just came back from seeing it, generally very good with good SFX although a little let down by some of the bad editing which occurred at 2 points in the film, but a film that was well-worth seeing and a nice fast paced match to the book :)
Chief Brody
11-11-2001, 22:05
I don't suppose any of you saw a SW:Episode 2 trailer at the UK previews did you? As many will know, the 'full' teaser goes out with HP in the States, but i'm unsure as to whether it will be the same here in Britain. I'll probably be seeing HP anyway, but if a SW trailer is attached to all prints, i'll definitely be going.
ethanfox
12-11-2001, 01:12
[QUOTE]Originally posted by McD
[B]
Which dull run was this, ethan?
Anything post Empire Strikes Back with the exception of a few cues. Williams just aint my bag, become characture of self, overdoes almost every film he has worked on....
However, I liked the potter score, although it was a bit like a Williams through the ages, covering bits from all he's ever done.
Although my enjoyent was part due to the relief after being made to suffer the Gladiator score whilst we waited.
As for the film, a good effort all round....
Another thumbs up from me.
It was a very pleasant way to spend 2.5 hours of my life. And all in all, a pretty good adaptation of the book. There were certainly bits of the book that were missed, but at 2.5 hours long, I don't think they could have fitted much more in.
I thought the special effects were great - Quidditch especially - it really brought it to life for me.
Acting was good as well, I know some people thought Harry was a bit lacklustre, but to me, that is Harry. Ron was excellent though, almost stole the show if it wasn't for Professor Snape (Alan Rickman) and Dumbledore (Richard Harris).
The first half an hour, to be honest, would have been enjoyable whatever happenned, such was the fascination of seeing the characters brought to life. But the story beyond that kept you enough involved to stay interested.
All in all very enjoyable - whether you have read the book or not. I certainly did not walk away disappointed.
Saw it last night..missus thoroughly enjoyed (she's read all 4 books!)
Myself, I thought it was pretty good, the quidditch match was excellent, however the ending was a dissapointment...faithfull to the book, but it just was not the climax I was looking forward to.
Overall the film was faithfull to the book anfd Kid's (of all ages !) will enjoy it.
8\10
Definetly a Christmas day movie, if I ever saw one.:clap:
ProgressiveScan
12-11-2001, 11:30
Originally posted by rst
Watched HP last night :p, all in all an ejoyable film. The effects are quite impressive and help make an enjoyable family film. IMHO 2 1/2 hours was too long, and the ending a little dissapointing. How true it is to the books I cannot comment, but worthy of 7 1/2 outta 10 :)
Gotta agree on the running time, although early screenings suggested it might be even longer!!!
It's EXACTLY like the book, although obviously some events are compressed or dropped for time constraints.
I was quite disapointed with some the FX work though, and also:
We don't see Ron grown up when he looks in the Mirror of Ivesed - the camera stays on his face WHHHYYYY???
Certainly if you've not read the book, the plot twist at the end may turn out to be an anti-climax.
Well I have to say I loved it. It was so true to the book. The quidditch match was fantastic and brought the excitement of the game to life. I would have had no complaints if it had been extended for another hour but thats with all films adapted from books. You're never going to get all the detail
I was a little disappointed wit J.K. Rowling for saying she was pleased that it was an all British cast though. I wonder how Richard Harris and The lad who plays Seamus Finnegan thought of that.
Great film though. Looking forward to the next one
Tyler
Saw it at the Brighton Odeon last night - great stuff.
However the print looked really grainy and badly processed in parts. Did anyone else notice this or maybe just the print I saw?
I thought it looked grainy too but I was putting it down to being over critical.
Didnt affect my enjoyment of it though.
Tyler
7/10 very good
Yes i thought the film was very grainy and blury too, is this supposed to look like this??
Hedwig needs to have a word with his agent... did he he get his name mentioned even once?
Well I saw it on Saturday night and thought it was quite entertaining - it did feel heavily edited, certainly in the first half were there were constant scenes of 30 seconds or so.
Having read only the fourth book, (which would make a great, and even longer film!) I now know how Quidditch works, and damn fine it looked on the big screen aswell.
The great thing is I can buy this for my girlfriend, who has read all the books, yet add it to my collection.
And if there is a four hour version then I'm sure it could hold my attention for that long.
ian_davies
13-11-2001, 15:10
God Dammit!!! Friday seems so far away, I have my ticket booked in Wrexham and catching a 5.30 PM showing straight after school! Gonna be great, I read all 4 books from last Wednesday to last night virtually non-stop! Madness, but they are gripping.
Anyway, I had a big shock yesterday whilst flicking through the cast list on IMDB. Turns out that Fred and George Weasley are played by my old best friends back in Sutton Coldfield who lived just down the road from me!!!! Which is pretty cool. Looking forward to seeing them on screen.
ROLL ON FRIDAY!!!! :clap:
saw it this afternooon - very average indeed, i felt like i was watching some CBBC thing. it's too long and the kid playing harry is quite bad. my g/f has read the book and says it's a good realisation but having not read it i felt like it was missing something. go if you have kids, but rent it on dvd later if you dont.
just MHO:D
oh yeah it has the Episode 2 trailer in front of it, i wasn't expecting that! it was the best bit of the afternoon (and still quite poor really) :)
Originally posted by mythuk
oh yeah it has the Episode 2 trailer in front of it, i wasn't expecting that! it was the best bit of the afternoon (and still quite poor really) :)
DId they not show the new Monster inc trailer where they're playing charades..:D
Saw it last night and....
I can thing of about 8 reasons why I shouldn't have liked it. The special effects where poor (apart from the flying scenes), there where major plot holes to name but two.
But it was enjoyable, it moves quick for a 2 1/2 hour movie (although the last hour or so starts to drag slightly)
7.87505/10
Yonathan Gal
17-11-2001, 11:11
Well I must say I quite enjoyed it. Cerrtainly well cut and always entertaining. Either a high 7 or low 8 out of ten. Still haven't decided. Of course it aint as good as te hype says it is, but they never are. Still waiting for LOTR :) HP was good though, (never read the book - will do soon!)... :D
Cobertizo
18-11-2001, 18:31
Hmm... I was disappointed. Admittedly I haven't read the books, but from the hype I was expecting at least a pretty good film. Yes it was reasonably entertaining, but then so are a lot of films that really aren't that good ;).
What I disliked :(:
I wasn't that taken by the storyline (it was quite predictable, and seemed cobbled together from various sources- for example, spot Cerberus/"Alice (Through the Looking Glass) chess" etc.) It was also quite disjointed in parts (due to cutting no doubt).
That aside however (being non-specific to the film I imagine), while generally the acting was fine, they (especially Radcliffe) did sound like they were just reading their lines occasionally. While the characters of Ron and Hermione (bizarrely, I didn't really mind the overacting of Emma Watson. It seemed to fit okay as far as I was concerned) were quite well portrayed, Harry seemed surprisingly lacking in charisma, and, dare I say it, boring. I can't believe that is how he is portrayed in the books.
On top of this, the music was hideously melodramatic. The Quidditch match was pretty uninspiring- perhaps by its rapid 3D nature it isn't much of a spectator sport, but I didn't feel they managed to do anything very interesting with it. I was also disappointed with the humour, since much of it was very simplistic, relying on a children's amusement at bodily fluids rather than anything more sophisticated.
I suppose my main gripe is that when I went to see Shrek, while it seemed clearly to be for 8 year olds, in fact I didn't feel condescended to, and there was some decent stuff for "the older viewer". However, HP:TPS didn't achieve this for me for the most part, so it was only mildly good.
What I especially liked :clap: :
The stereotyped Celts. Monty (he can never leave that role in my heart). It also generally avoided being too sickening (except for two occasions near the end (about bravery and love)).
As you may have guessed, I really wasn't impressed. I was expecting something far greater. However the 2.5 hours didn't seem to long for the most part, for which congratulation is in order. As I hope I made clear initially, I found it reasonable fun (i.e. I didn't mind being in the cinema rather than anywhere else), but I certainly can't see myself rushing to see it or a sequel again. Maybe I have been spoilt by some of the "children's" films I have seen recently (Shrek/Princess Mononoke), but I had hoped for something with more subtlety.
[Sorry for the long post]
I saw this on saturday with a packed cinema full of eager kids and even more eager parents! I thought the world Chris Columbus created was fantastic, the costumes were also very good, and the film seemed to start off ok...
But then it just seemed to nosedive into a full on kids film, with feel-good factors everywhere you looked. "Hurray for Harry! He's such a great guy!" :rolleyes:
There was very little adult humour, and in the last half hour my girlfriend fell asleep! :o
The most disappointing thing was that harry didn't use his wand hardly at all, despite the fact the guy in the wand shop said only one other person had ever had a wand of that type (the bad guy), it would have been good to see the wand do some really cool stuff. :(
Well done Robbie Coltrane for a sound job, but as for the rest of the film, an average 6.5/10...
Saw it last night, I haven't read the books but it was alright. A 3 star movie at most that was a bit too long. I think the problem is that they've tried to put a lot of the book in the film when adaptations should really only concentrate on the main bulk f the story and cut out the fat. It tok over an hour to get going and the last action set piece was very underwhelming.
Still it'd make a load of cash even if it was up to the standard of Dude Where's My Car?
Bingo Bongo
19-11-2001, 13:01
I took my kids and we loved it - although the adults around me seemed to be enjoying it more than the kids.
I was on a bit of a high though following the SW AOTC trailer:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
Kirsten.Jet
20-11-2001, 01:00
I went to see it last Sunday and thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm a big fan of the books though and I felt they were taking it for granted most people would have read it and could fill in any gaps in the story.
It stuck to the book well but I'm slightly bemused about how they left the whole prejudice issue out about mudbloods etc, considering the other books that's slightly worrying. It would only have taken a couple of lines as well. Also Snape's intense venom towards Harry didn't really materialise, he just seemed to general dislike everyone. I know about cutting stuff out etc but it seemed strange to leave those out considering the importance in the plot. Did anyone else have a problem with this?
And to what Cobertizo was saying, yes Harry really is pretty boring and uncharismatic in the book! I think that's part of the reason it appeals, he's pretty much like every other kid in that way.
Zoe
I've read all the books and was really disappointed with the film.
Some bits were excellent, like the sets. Hogwarts was *exactly* like I'd pictured it in my head, the Gryffindor common room was spookily exactly as I'd imagined.
But the story was a bit rubbish. It was almost like they sat down and made a list of Harry Potter things that must be in the movie.
And then they just put each one in, one after the other with no real care about narrative.
Roll on book 5.
AdamBrunt
20-11-2001, 11:52
Originally posted by Kirsten.Jet
It stuck to the book well but I'm slightly bemused about how they left the whole prejudice issue out about mudbloods etc, considering the other books that's slightly worrying. It would only have taken a couple of lines as well. Also Snape's intense venom towards Harry didn't really materialise, he just seemed to general dislike everyone. I know about cutting stuff out etc but it seemed strange to leave those out considering the importance in the plot. Did anyone else have a problem with this?
I haven't seen the film yet (seeing it on Saturday) and as I read the first three books in quick succession I may be getting them muddled up but ... I thought the mudblood thing wasn't really a big deal in Book 1 (compared to Book 2) ????
Kirsten.Jet
20-11-2001, 12:08
It may not be a huge thing but it lays the foundation for it so it's not a complete surprise in the others I felt This way if they do bring it up, (I don't see how they can't) it's kinda coming from nowhere.
Enjoy the film, I still loved even after all the complaints I made after coming out the cinema!
Zoe
DVDWotcha
20-11-2001, 13:06
Both myself and the wife have read all the books and we're both in agreement that while the movie was not a bad attempt it just didn't feel quite right. Obviously for reasons of length some scenes had to be cut but to be honest I don't think it really works that well. My own reason for this is that in my view the books are very tightly written anyway. There are very few parts of the books that are not driving the plot forward or providing character development. Some important aspects were skimmed over IMO. e.g. The film doesn't adequately explain what is in the letter and why the Dursleys don't want him to get it. You only get to find out later on. Also Snapes dislike for Harry doesn't come accross well at all. You'll only really understand things if you've read the books !!
Attention to detail was also lacking. e.g. Hedwig was never named ! It would have taken 5 seconds of screen time !
Acting was pretty good. Harry was slightly below par compared to the other characters but not soo bad. And the music was a bit over dramatic... a bit obtrusive for my liking.
Still overall it's still pretty good 8/10 maybe, but I think it may be better suited to a special 4 hour DVD or multi part TV mini-series.
http://www.stopstart.fsnet.co.uk/smilie/magic.gif
Spooky_uk
21-11-2001, 00:19
Well went to this tonight. 8:30pm showing in the largest screen of the multiplex (Odeon Bfd/Leeds if anyone interested) fully expecting it to be sold out after all the hype - in the end was about 25 people tops in. And this was on a bargain night where all tickets are £2.75 each!
Film was OK, not super brilliant but enjoyable - didn't seem like 2.5 hours tho...
Some of the effects looked ropey (talking Scorpion King proportions here!!) but others were amazing - the quedditch match for example.
Not read the books yet but will pick them up now and get the full story! Must admit - amazed at the "Britishness" of it and all credit must go to Miss "Never Smiles" Rowling for fighting her corner in Hollywood.. she won at the end of the day..
The Monsters inc teaser was superb too...
Now roll on LOTR ... :D
On a final note must say tho - in all my 26 years of cinema visits I have NEVER had to sit through so many adverts before a film (even in the days when there used to be intermissions)
I saw it on sunday and loved it, and to have the monsters inc, aotc, and lotr trailers before it was the icing on the cake.
davester2k
22-11-2001, 17:04
I say HP last night and to be honest I thought it was absolutely awful and if the story is close to the books I haven't a clue why they are so popular, esp. with adults!
The film was way too long simply because it wanted to tell you everything about the plot and we ended up with lots of unnecessary scenes. It did really come across as a film for children and I find it hard to see how adults could be interested. The story is pretty damn weak anyway and I sat through a whole two and a half hours waiting for the film to get going, which it never did. I do begrudgingly admit that there were one or two funny bits but apart from that nothing doing for me. And as for the special effects, if WB need some help with their CGI I'll be happy to send them my old Voodoo 3dfx card, might do the job better.
Piece said, the best bit about the whole evening was the Monsters Inc. spot. Hmmmmm. Rendered hair.
Bloody good laugh to be had at Star Wars Episode 2- Attack of the "Rapidly Peddled and boshed together **** to make GL money" Clones. How bad does that look? Please don't admit to it if you're going to waste good money on seeing it?
I've said it before and I will say it again. Why did George Lucas have to ruin Star Wars?
Ben Martin
22-11-2001, 23:50
with the exception of the rant against a movie which hasn't even been finished yet, let alone released, i have to agree with everything davester2k said above.
saw harry potter tonight with the GF (who has read all the books adn loves them) and we were both distinctly underwhelmed. i actually thought it was very poor. boring, unengaging, no real plot, terrible effects and the worst performance in a lead role since mark wahlberg in POTA. i'm glad so many of you managed to like it though, but i'll never manage to work out how.
i cannot understand where the praise is coming from for the effects on the quidditch game? they were arguably the worst effects of the lot - the stadium and towers were totally out of proportion to the mountains and forest in the background. it was very noticeable and i thought it looked ridiculous. and the cheap, badly composited shots against bluescreen - like when the kids talk to hagrid about the music, why weren't they shot outside? they definitely rushed post-production on this movie.
fair enough, harry gets seriously shafted as far as good lines go (and people have pointed out this is apparently the same in the book) but daniel radcliffe's delivery is flat and unconvincing. he makes jake lloyd seem like marlon brando. and that one open-mouthed-wonder expression he wears in so many scenes, it is identical every time. i thought the kid playing ron did quite a job job and had less bad lines, and that the girl who played hermione was excellent. overacting?! okay, once or twice, but as a general assessment of her performance where did that that come from? although i suppose against 'barely acting at all', 'acting' might seem like 'overacting'.
i'm not comparing this movie to the book as i haven't read it, but all i hoped for was a good film in its own right and for it to make its own internal sense. and for me it did neither. going on what i know about the cinematic tastes of some of the people who have posted rave reviews here of this film i can only assume that you're devotees of the book (fair enough, i can believe it is that good) and are biased as a result. that or you took children to see it and their enjoyment rubbed off on you too - which is great. as i said, i'm glad you manged to enjoy it, but i'll never work out how or why.
Well I finally decided to give into the hype and see this film. I'd attempted reading the 1st book but just didn't like it. I was pleasantly suprised by the film and I'd say of all the "hyped" films of the year this is the one that has delivered most to me. Ok it's no memento but I didn't expect that. I'd class this as good family entertainment and much better than POTA or TR. I'm now considering giving the books another go. It was also nice to see a few good trailers at the start of the film (except princess diaries) as this was the first time I'd seen the new LOTR and AOTC trailers. Also can someone explain to me
Who bought Harry the invisibility coat? Did I miss something
post number "tree fitty" as chef's dad would say :)
Yonathan Gal
23-11-2001, 17:57
In reply to your spoiler without giving anything away, wasn't it his parents?
btw: yeah, lotr does look amazing!
Spooky_uk
23-11-2001, 19:20
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Ben Martin
with the exception of the rant against a movie which hasn't even been finished yet, let alone released, i have to agree with everything davester2k said above.
Of course, that would be because you live, breath and worship the work of Mr Lucas don't you ? And if you try to deny it, I'll ram every Episode II trailer and Mr Lucas thread you participated in, to back up the point ;)
saw harry potter tonight with the GF (who has read all the books adn loves them) and we were both distinctly underwhelmed. i actually thought it was very poor. boring, unengaging, no real plot, terrible effects and the worst performance in a lead role since mark wahlberg in POTA. i'm glad so many of you managed to like it though, but i'll never manage to work out how.
I would be very careful about those words because that is what many people think they will be saying after another much hyped movie coming out next may . Not my opinion, but the fifth column is growing as we speak... :D
Ben Martin
24-11-2001, 00:50
spooky, i have replied to the star wars elements of your post on another thread (http://www.thedvdforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=33250&pagenumber=2), as it's not fair to hijack this one.
I would be very careful about those words because that is what many people think they will be saying after another much hyped movie coming out next may . Not my opinion, but the fifth column is growing as we speak... :D
:confused: thanks for the patronising warning. sorry if you didn't mean it that way, but that's how it comes across. it is perfectly clear above that i'm just offering up my opinion, which is a valid enough practice anyway but particularly on a thread in the review forum! :eek:
i don't abuse anyone for liking the movie, i just say i didn't like it and, more importantly, why. for example, i don't just say i didn't like the effects, i say why. so you can call me for it if you want and point out why you think i'm wrong. heck, i even said i was pleased that those people who were so desperate to see it did enjoy it! i was hardly going to take any enjoyment from any disappointment they might have suffered.
lastly, you're not telling me anything i don't know about what will happen next may. however, unlike many of those who will hate episode II i won't be hijacking general harry potter threads all over the forums with the express, pointless purpose of regaling everyone with how much i disliked it. that's out of order and a waste of everyone's time. all i've done is offer my opinion on this movie in the correct place.
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