Well, isn't that wizard?
It was good, I really liked it. I had wanted to re-read the book before seeing it but since my books are still in storage that didn't happen and I was a bit rusty on remembering certain events from the books. Though I did notice several differences and changes throughout the film of things that I did remember. I don't think any of the changes that I noticed really bothered me except maybe when Harry wasn't petrified by Dumbledore but instead stayed below like he was asked. It bothered me a little at first because I thought surely he wouldn't just stay down there but thinking about it after the fact, he trusted Dumbledore and was doing as he asked and by extension Snape as well I think until of course Avada Kedavra, and well, you know.
And the poor burrow :( though it definitely got the point of a war going on across, not a bad addition to the film I guess. But I was disappointed that the best line from the book: "I'm not worried Harry, I'm with you." was left out. It's lines like that that made it so poignant and I really expected it to be included in the movie. The book made me cry during all that and I did shed a tear or two during the film as well. When Dumbledore was killed by Snape and when they found him on the lawn made me tear up a bit. I also wish we had more from when Harry was chasing Snape away from the castle afterward. Because it was during that part that I knew where Snape's loyalties really lied (with Dumbledore) and was convinced of it.
Everyone did such a good job with their portrayals, I was especially impressed with Tom Felton's Draco and the actor who played Slughorn. And of course the trio, they're just great. It's funny because we've basically watched the cast grow up threw these movies.
I also loved Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes and wish we had a bit more of that too but it was much fun. heehhe.
"WHY ARE YOU WORRYING ABOUT YOU-KNOW-WHO?
YOU SHOULD BE WORRYING ABOUT U-NO-POO
THE CONSTIPATION SENSATION THAT'S GRIPPING THE NATION!"
And during this part, out of the blue, I was struck with the overwhelming desire to see one of the Phelps' twins as the Doctor. I think it was Oliver (George Weasley) who caught my eye and made me think this. I'd like to see this with him wearing something similar to the suit they wore in WWW and of course with the red hair because he'd finally get to be ginger. Hmm, yes, I like it.
Tell me you don't see the potential for this at some point hmmm? Maybe something about him reminded me of Ten or a Ten mannerism and it's my subconscious trying to hold onto him as long as possible? Anyway, I digress...
So, yes I liked the film and despite the changes (or the ones that I noticed right off anyway) I think it was done really well and some parts were just hilarious. A good mix of seriousness and humor indeed. I definitely want to see it again, I'd like to see it again in the theatre but I don't know if that'll happen or not. Though if I do re-watch it in the theatre again, it'll be a different theatre because this one had about the most uncomfortable seats ever. And there was something on the screen, it looked like a smashed spider or something and it was always right where someone's eye or nose was and it was very distracting.
*thumbs up for HP*
I may write more again later after I've had a chance to let it all soak in my brain again.
*Spoilers for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince of course.