Sunday, December 5, 2010

HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOW- PART ONE: Movie Review


Although JK Rowling’s incredible saga ended- memorably- on 7/7/07, the Warner Bros movie franchise continues to keep the magic alive for Potter fans everywhere.
But all good things come to an end, and the Warner Bros has made the most of it by splitting the final instalment into two parts, and staying as true to the books as possible.
This movie is distinct from the rest of the series in many ways, but the most poignant of all is that Harry, Hermione and Ron are finally out in the world, alone. They are on the run from Voldemort, and have severed ties with everyone- even Hogwarts.
The wizarding world has become a dark and dangerous place, with Voldemort back in power. The ministry of magic has become a front for evil, and their new “Magic is Might’ motto has dark undertones of Nazi Germany, what with the persecution of muggles (non-wizarding folk) and muggle-born wizards and witches.
Albus Dumbledore is made conspicuous by his absence in this film. The last instalment, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, ended with his death, and all that remains of Hogwarts’ beloved headmaster now is the quest he left to Harry, Hermione and Ron. They travel around the British countryside, completely out-of-touch with everyone else, searching for and destroying Horcruxes, which are magical objects with a portion of Voldemort’s soul concealed within them.
This movie is even more intricate than the rest, and while explanation is provided for Potter initiates, those familiar with the books have a distinct advantage.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I is the scariest instalment yet, and even adult viewers will find it difficult to stomach. Small children are definitely not advised to watch, and the proposed ‘R’ rating was only just avoided by the most minimum of editing.
Voldemort is more active, and he manages to infuse his scenes with a sense of dread and despair that continues to haunt the rest of the film.
The personalities and emotions of the trio are really explored in this film, and they manage to deliver some really poignant scenes. Our hearts were touched especially when Harry visits the graves of his parents, and Hermione magically removes traces of herself from her parent’s memory. Ron, also, has the opportunity to not just play the comedian, and truly exhibits authentic performances.
The relationships between the trio are also explored, with conflict arising in Ron and Harry’s friendship, awkwardness between Ron and Hermione, and the platonic affection between Harry and Hermione.
For a change, the scenes which are not in the book are truly touching and relevant. Moments like the Story of the Deathly Hallows, and Harry and Hermione dancing, add another dimension to the movie.
This movie ends at the biggest cliffhanger of all, and waiting till July for Part Two will be a real test of patience!

Aishwarya Narne
XI A

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