Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 finally came out last night, and Nathan gives us the full report!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 has tossed me into a sublime state of free-falling psychological instability. David Yates - the director, Steve Kloves - the writer, and of course, J. K. Rowling, have left me on the edge of my seat, struggling to reconcile my emotions and my inability to wait eight more months for the conclusion! The score, composed by Alexandre Despot of Girl With the Pearl Earring and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, sent more chills down my spine than I am able to count. I won’t spoil any of the film’s plot, but I will say that it ended on a high moment, ripe with intensity and passion. What a cruel tease yet a truly genius cliff-hanger!

The final installment in the seven-part series chronicles the epic journey of Ron, Hermoine, and Harry, as they despairingly wander the European landscape in their fight against Lord Voldemort. This time, the action predominantly takes place outside of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and instead, within and around the muggle world. The urban streets of London make an appearance, as well as the visually stunning backdrops provided by Swinley Forest, Freshwater West, and the village of Lavenham in Suffolk. This is something different that has not been seen in any of the Harry Potter films before; never has there been a plot away from Hogwarts. This difference, however, makes the film that much more satisfying.
It’s unexpected, and the naturalism of the environment in combination with the irrationality of magic stimulates the senses and inspires awe. Is magic possible? Maybe!

It does not matter whether you have read Harry Potter or not, this film will please all audiences. (Although I strongly suggest you do read the books if you have not already because they simply are magic themselves and they are incredibly fun!). Even though the series focuses on the unprecedented lives of three teenagers, it is truly a piece of literature that sees no age. At the core, it’s a story about the strength of friendship, of love, and of family. More importantly, it’s a story of self-discovery and the individual within. Harry Potter teaches that everyone is important and that we all have our own unique purpose in life. That’s the beauty of Harry Potter – it maintains its universality on a personal level while touching the soul and inspiring the child within us all at the same time.


FILED UNDER: harry potter , film , staff , ocny , new york , kids