Ash’s review of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 Directed by David Yates
Adventure/Fantasy/Drama Film released by Warner Bros. Pictures 15 Jul 11

To start, I have to say that I am a huge Harry Potter fan, but I wasn’t always. When the first movie came out, I thought it looked childish and I wanted nothing to do with it. I had no interest in the books either. Then the first movie came on TV, and as soon as Harry looked into the Mirror of Erised, I knew I was hooked. I actually felt like I could connect with this eleven-year-old wizard, because I knew if I looked into that mirror, I would see my mother too.

I currently have at least two copies of each book and the same with the movies. It’s the only book and/or movie series that I have to have in paperback, hardcover, UK edition,  blu-ray, ultimate edition, etc. So obviously it’s more than a movie or a children’s book to me, and most people probably don’t understand that, but that’s okay. That might make it easier to get why this won’t be a typical review. I can’t leave the emotions out of it.

It’s a long movie, I don’t really want to recap it, and you shouldn’t be reading this unless you read the book or see the movie anyway.  Since I read the book I have been scared of this movie. How could it possibly live up to the book? I almost dreaded seeing it not only for that reason, but because I knew what was coming. I sat there before it started telling my friend that I wanted to leave. I couldn’t do it. I could not sit and see the visual of characters I love dying or see it done wrong. How could I watch it end?  (Is that a normal reaction? I’m not sure.) I am extremely happy and relieved to say the movie couldn’t have been better (almost, but more on that in a minute). David Yates’ ability to transfer these books to film amazes me. There are some changes, as with all the movies, but it works and I can walk away from this one satisfied that they have done the books justice.

The story itself is a roller coaster ride of emotion. I was in tears within minutes and there were times when I was borderline sobbing. The things I dreaded most, Snape and Fred, are done superbly. Everything from the buildup to the battles, the little bits of humor, and, yes, finally the kiss, it all comes together brilliantly. I can’t wait to get the DVD so I can watch it over and over again. I love a movie that can make me feel so much.

My one complaint, and the only part I didn’t love, is the ending. I am not sure they got the feeling right on that one. The look they are going for doesn’t work for me, and I will never forget that I was actually staring at a bunch of kids playing dress up. It’s a little saddening that I’m left with that impression after such a terrific movie series, but in the end it doesn’t take anything away from the greatness that the rest of it is.

So that is it, I had to say goodbye to Harry, Ron, and Hermione. It’s a journey, not just this movie but all of it, and one I wish I could see for the first time all over again.  Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 is everything I needed it to be, and more.

Grade: A+

Summary:

In the epic finale, the battle between good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalates into an all-out war.  The stakes have never been higher and no one is safe. But it is Harry Potter who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice as he draws closer to the climatic showdown with Lord Voldemort.

It all ends here.

Watch the trailer.