Thursday, July 26, 2007

"HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX"
Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Michael Gambon, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, Imelda Staunton, Emma Thompson, Ralph Fiennes, Gary Oldman, Helena Bonham Carter, Julie Walters, Brendan Gleeson

Cinema 5, Greenbelt 3



Every time I see a Harry Potter movie, I feel the need to explain that I haven't read any of the books by J.K Rowling and nor do I intend to in the near or distant future. It is simply not my genre of reading material. Be that as it may, I still watch the movies for a variety of reasons.

First - the stunning imagery. The wizardry of the graphics department's ability to transport a set into a place of magic. Floating candles, talking paintings and the whole gamut of fascinating characters, human or otherwise that abound in Hogwarts and its environs are always fascinating to watch.

Second - the fluidity of the story line. I recognize the fact that a story of such magnitude is very difficult to present on screen. Yet at the same time, I believe the director has the prerogative to pick out the parts which he feels would make the most impact on the audience. The film although long (which is understandable) seemed rather concise and the story was presented in a coherent manner. Although it does help to see the film with someone who has read the book (in my case, my sister), I still felt like the story was well told. But then I guess it won't be fair for me to say for sure that it was a good adaptation of the book. So I won't go there.

Third - the ensemble cast. It is peppered with some of the British film industry's stellar actors and actresses. Gary Oldman, Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Imelda Staunton, Helena Bonham Carter to name a few. They are all very talented artistes in their own right. They were all a delight to watch as they essay their roles with much flair and panache.

Lastly, sometimes it just feels good to watch a film where good always triumphs over the dark forces of evil. Even if the journey is peddled with hindrances and obstacles, the fact remains that we don't give up easily and keep trying till we succeed. Besides a little bit of magic never hurt anyone.

In conclusion, I think it is fair to say that one feels like a joyful parent beaming with pride as the three main characters - Harry, Hermione and Ron - are practically growing into young adults right before your eyes. Oh boy now I feel old! Heh!

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