Review: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (spoilers)

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is an interesting film to write about. I enjoyed the movie very much. I found myself giggling at the right times, and becoming absorbed into the story. However, I couldn't help see some faults in the story and mood. Naturally, when someone is protective of a book that they love (as I do love Harry Potter), they are harsh on any adaptation. So, I will try to put aside my feelings about the book, and tell you about the movie itself.
Harry Potter is a family adventure film of the highest order. Harry Potter is a rather ordinary boy, he lives with his abusive and neglectful aunt and uncle, and is picked upon by his cousin. However, in the wizarding world, he is a celebrity, a hero of epic proportions. The thing is, Harry does not know that the wizarding world exsists.
One day, Harry is sent a letter, he has never recieved a letter in his life, and he is eager to read it. The thing is, his aunt and uncle know where the letter came from, and they are anything but eager for Harry to see its contents.
Harry is a charming, whimsical piece of moviegoing cotton candy. With competent directing by Christopher Colomubus, wonderful special effects, and a talented cast, the film is very entertaining.
Most impressive in the cast is Robbie Coltrane as the loveable behemoth Hagrid. Robbie brings charm and humour to Hagrid, and is a standout in a great adult cast.
Alan Rickman as Snape, the mysterious Potions teacher, Maggie Smith as Minerva McGonagall, the stern yet soft hearted transfiguration teacher, and Richard Harris as Dumbledore, the benevolent headmaster, are all spectacular.
The children are not as reliable, but are very entertaining. Emma Watson is precocious and droll as Hermione, she fairs the best out of the main three kids. Rupert Grint is humorous as Ron, and let's hope his character expands in the movies as they do in the books. Finally, Daniel Radcliffe is good, but not great as Harry. The problem with the character is that in the first book, he doesn't get to do much except look surprised. Like Ron and Hermione, Harry matures as the books continue.
Now, the final thing I will say is that Quidditch is WONDERFUL. Perhaps the best scene in any movie so far this year. I was expecting this scene to be dissapointing, but I loved it.

Grade: B+