I did, however, have the feeling that some items were "left out", just as I did with RotK: it would have been nice to know more about the origins of the Marauders' Map and to learn why the Patronus takes the form of a stag (all of these things are revealed in the book). Without explanation, the appearance of the stag just seems like another magical special effect.
I must say that from the point of view of the SpFX, this film sets new standards. The realization of Buckbeak is an extraordinary achievement ("You would really think that such a creature exists!" was my cousin's remark
) Likewise the use of the spectacular scenery was awe-inspiring. I don't really object of Hagrid's "re-designed" cottage, and, in keeping with the tone of the story, Hogwarts seems to be a grimmer, darker place.I certainly agree with Kieli's remarks about the cast, especially the spectacularly good Emma Watson
--here is a beautiful young girl who will certainly grow into a formidably attractive and skilled actress (I don't know why, but I got a real kick out of the "wolf call"
). Both Radcliffe and Grint are certainly more comfortable and "at ease" in their respective parts. David Thewlis was excellent, as was Gary Oldman in his small (but critical) part. I felt that Michael Gambon successfully did his own "take" on Dumbledore and, of course, I must give "shout-outs" to Emma Thompson and Dawn French.Now I would like to throw something out to the board: after watching the film, I couldn't help thinking that perhaps Lupin's "condition" is Rowling's metaphor, whether conscious or not, for homosexuality. I was especially struck by Thewlis's delivery of the line, "Now that word's gotten out, I doubt that the parents would want someone like me [my emphasis] on the staff." Add to this Hermione's explanation that "An animagus chooses to become an animal; a werewolf has no choice in the matter" and the metaphor seems even clearer. What do y'all think??
at: 7/1/04 3:29 am
also that live journal entry was hilarious,couldn't read it all though it was making laugh rather noticeably which is frowned upon in a library. 
) returns to Hogwarts alarmed at the latest Voldemort threat, only to be distracted by the appearance of Hermione (played by Lindsay Lohan, I think), who has...um...blossomed most noticeably in the pectoral area. Thereafter, anyone else who enters, Ron, Snape, etc. etc. can only notice Hermione and her "attributes". This was screamingly funny!
... or i could buy the english version 
