...On Movies: "It's Levi-OOOOH-sa not LevioSAR..."

So, I finally watched the Sorcerer's Stone. Not as bad as I was expecting (considering it is 14 years old). I have to admit I actually *sigh* enjoyed the movie. The CGI was obviously dated (Even for 2001), but still entertaining for a children's movie. The story was pretty fun and the kids that portrayed the characters did a very good job bringing them to life. While not on my Top 10 list (maybe not even top 25) it is a decent film.

Here are my give and takes:

The Good:

1. Daniel Radcliffe really does look like the illustrated harry potter.

2. The Character development was very nice by comparison. You do get a sense of how Draco is going to be a pain in Harry's side from the moment they meet. You instantly feel the connection between Harry and Ron. Hermione gets on your nerves, but you can't help feel appreciative for her. And Harry's yearning for his parents and the righteous desire to avenge them was felt from the moment he steps in front of that mirror. Over all, the characters are very easy to understand and sympathize with.

3. SPOILER: Ron's heroism, while out of character, did not feel like "lazy writing" or a cheap attempt at a "twist." You can see that Ron, while not the most competitive person, is a very good tactician and realizes that what is necessary isn't quite always what is easy.

4. Quidditch looks awesome! 'Nough said.

5. It is super quotable!

The Bad:

1. The kids, while I understand are still young, are terrible at acting out hesitance. During scenes where they have to "Stutter" out of shock or fear, they sound forced. A minor set back, but noticeable nonetheless. Don't judge me! I was thinking it throughout the whole movie!

2. SPOILER: There were some plot twist that weren't anticipated. I genuinely thought that Snape was the villain and didn't suspect Quirrell (I thought his stutter was just a poor attempt by the actor just as the kids were bad... I now see it was all an act). However, there were many predictable moments in the movie. You know Harry is going to be assigned Gryffindor house in spite their attempt at building the anticipation... You know Gryffindor is going to win the Quidditch match... You know that "He-whom-must-not-be-named" will not kill harry (C'mon, there are 6 more books)... And the list goes on.

3. It's not super original. Hmm.. An orphan, left with his aunt and uncle who treat him poorly, grows up and a sage comes to reclaim him so he can take his rightful place as leader/her/savior. His parents left him a small fortune to ensure he has the resources he needs. He befriends a half-wit and goody-two-shoes and chooses them over a more confident antagonist... This has Batman, Cinderella, Annie, Spider-man, and the Wizard of Oz written all over it!