⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5

How did 25 years go by since I first saw this in the cinema? While not a massive Harry Potter fan, I went to the viewing to experience 4DX, if you wish to know about that, read the review on this site.

I saw this film originally in the cinema with my mum and hugely enjoyed it at the time. While I’ve seen all the films, I’ve only seen the first few in the cinema. This opportunity was too good to miss and see this film again and it looked fantastic on the big screen.

What I didn’t expect was that the film is now showing its age a little as a re-release rather than a remaster. The picture quality looked grainy, relying on older camera techniques and limited CGI, with many practical props that would likely be rendered digitally nowadays. While I had previously thought it was too soon to have a new remake of Harry Potter, I’ve now changed my mind.

Sadly, most of the older cast has now passed away. Beyond an excellent ensemble of seasoned British actors, the film of course introduced us to the now very well-known younger cast.

Film-wise, the pacing was generally good and very enjoyable. The story of course introducing you to the characters that we have all become familiar with. Then the musical score stands out as a highlight. While I own all the Harry Potter films, I may now watch a few of them again.

It was also nice to see many of the props and sets on screen that I have previously seen at the Harry Potter studios. The experience of seeing this film, especially in 4DX, was enjoyable. The cinema also had a load of merchandise on sale, which was a nice touch.

Orphaned Harry Potter discovers he is a wizard on his eleventh birthday and is whisked away to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he uncovers the truth about his parents’ deaths, makes lifelong friends, and thwarts the dark wizard Lord Voldemort from stealing the Philosopher’s Stone.

Online synopsis 

Film Rating

Music/Sound

5 out of 5

Story/plot

4 out of 5

Acting/Performances

4 out of 5

Overall

3.5 out of 5

Certification: PG
Running time: 167 minutes
Screening type: 2D and 4DX