'Potter' has action, intrigue — and reason for caution

"HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS: PART 1" — ★★★ — Daniel Radcliffe, Ralph Fiennes, Emma Watson, Helena Bonham Carter, Rupert Grint, Rhys Ifans, Brendan Gleeson; PG-13 (sequences of intense action violence, frightening images and brief sensuality); in general release

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1" is one of the more action-packed and darker films in the series.

It's also much more problematic for parents, with elements of violence and sensuality that may be too much for younger audiences.

In Part 1 of the two-part finale, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) learn to battle their fears as they search out the horcruxes where the evil Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) has hidden parts of his soul.

The movie begins with the characters facing tenuous family situations. Hermione has erased herself from her parents' memories. Harry's aunt, uncle and cousin have moved away, leaving Harry alone. Ron's concern for his family is evident, as well.

Darkness and violent imagery come quickly as Voldemort and the Death Eaters plot how to kill Harry on their way to gaining more power. Voldemort's snake, Nagini, is never far — at one point transforming into an old woman in an attempt to trap Harry and Hermione.

The Death Eaters have infiltrated many aspects of the magical world, and distrust abounds. The Ministry of Magic begins a witch hunt of sorts for those who might not be of "pure" wizarding blood.

Under David Yates' direction, the film keeps a quick pace and covers roughly the first two-thirds of the 759-page book. The script includes a wild ride with multiple Harry Potters, an interrupted wedding, a secret foray into the Ministry of Magic and the trio constantly being on the move. Harry, Ron and Hermione's friendship is tested as they learn to trust each other. Ron and Hermione still have yet to work out their budding romantic relationship.

Rhys Ifans, a newcomer to the Potter series, plays a convincing eccentric Xenophilous Lovegood, and David O'Hara's performance as Albert Runcorn (actually, Harry in disguise) in the Ministry of Magic is impressive.

Many of the previous cast members are back, including Helena Bonham Carter as the twisted Bellatrix Lestrange.

There are some scenes that may be of particular concern for parents of young children and tweens.