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Film review: Long-awaited 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince' fresh, enjoyable

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Anonymous | 3:10 p.m. July 14, 2009

Jim Broadbent deserves more credit than just putting ("Inkheart") after his name. "Inkheart" was a worthless flop. Broadbent is an acclaimed, awarded, and revered English actor and was around long before Americans first saw him in "Moulin Rouge."

Amen | 5:00 p.m. July 14, 2009

Harry Potter would have blown Twilight out of the water, I don't know why they decided to wait. Oh well, it is here finally.

katamb | 5:10 p.m. July 14, 2009

Kind of gave up on H.P. but then saw the last movie on HBO a few weeks ago and now can't wait to see the new one! And since it's been a very long time since the book came out it'll all be a surprise! Did she really have to write that Dumbledore (sp?) is gay into the last book? Was it really needed? I think not. Yeah, they're fictitious characters, but kids are reading this stuff.

Comments continue below

Anonymous | 5:49 p.m. July 14, 2009

She never mentioned anything about Dumbledore's sexual preferences in the books. The idea that he was gay came up as an answer to a fan question about Dumbledore's romantic relationships.

@ katamb | 6:07 p.m. July 14, 2009

Did you read the book? I did. Never got that impression about Dumbledore.

Dumbledore | 7:47 p.m. July 14, 2009

What are you talking about? We know that can only true about Harry Potter!

Dralloc | 3:42 a.m. July 15, 2009

After watching the sixth movie, I believe it could be helpful to walk into the theater with a little different perspective than I had. Instead of thinking of this movie as the sixth book's movie and the seventh book being split two ways. Think of books six and seven being split three ways. To tell you the truth, that's the only way to avoid feeling angry about all of the things YOU thought were important but were left out. I expect that we'll find all of those great things, when we take the last three movies as a whole.

Saw it, Really Good. | 4:40 a.m. July 15, 2009

That 3.5/4 star rating is legit. I am not a huge Potter fan, but a friend had an extra ticket to the midnight showing so I saw it last night. I must say, I thought #4 was OK and didn't like #5, but this new film (#6) was excellent. Thumbs up for sure. Definately dark though, it could be too scary and too intense for some younger kids. I'm surprized if this really is a PG movie. I was thinking during the film that it was a STRONG PG-13. Loved it.

rdha | 6:45 a.m. July 15, 2009

Looks great; I can hardly wait to see it today. The book was really good. However, all the Harry Potter movies are brilliant like the books so this new Harry Potter film will be a true winner.

Anonymous | 7:00 a.m. July 15, 2009

It's no wonder this movie was much better than the last movie. The Order of the Phenoix was the worst book of the 7

Mik | 8:17 a.m. July 15, 2009

I saw HP and HBP last night and was disappointed by it. The film left you feeling lacking.

I don't know if it was the high expectations, the overall hype or what. Although it is visually stunning and stays some what true to the book. At the end we walked out going , ok, well, hmmmmmm.

Not even the Death at the end felt like a tragedy, it was kind of, oh, dang, he died.

It was perhaps the funnies HP film so far. But jut not engaging. You watched but I never felt involved.

What the? | 8:31 a.m. July 15, 2009

Aren't those actors 30 now?

far and away | 9:05 a.m. July 15, 2009

the best potter movie. We loved it the most. The acting was SOOOOO much better. I didn't cringe every time Hermione spoke. Can't wait to see it again.

Marie Devine | 9:36 a.m. July 15, 2009

Two things scarier than this witchcraft-sorcery movie:
1. The Churches Endorse It
2. People are not told God's view of it
Leviticus 20:27 Punishment for wizard and familiar spirit, death
Deuteronomy 18:9-14 Abomination to the LORD
11 Kings 9:22 No peace
1 Samuel 15:22-23 Rebellion like sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.
Harry Potter is FICTION: a lie.
Revelation 22:15 “(Do commandments, enter holy city;) "For outside are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loves and makes a lie."
Revelation 9:21 Seals Judgments because "Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts."
Read the Bible; it has more mysteries revealed and more power to overcome evil. If you use the devil's ways to overcome evil, the devil wins; it is one of his devises to deceive and condemn to hell with him.
Jesus said to live by EVERY word of God (Matthew 4:4) Ten Commandments Exodus 20, Leviticus 26, Deuteronomy 28, Luke 16:13-31 have power to overcome evil God's way.

Thanks for the tip | 10:17 a.m. July 15, 2009

Some friends and I were planning a trip later this summer to England to see if we could find Hogwarts Castle, maybe even ride the Hogwarts express. But after reading Marie's comment I realize just how stupid we are in thinking that it is all somehow real. Thanks Marie for reminding us that it is just fiction! Now we'll just stay closer to home--maybe just do some fishing up at Potter's Ponds.

Albatross | 10:26 a.m. July 15, 2009

"Harry Potter is FICTION: a lie. "

You mean to tell me that all those wonderful stories that JK Rowling tells aren't real? Oh my heck! Thank you Ms. Devine for speaking this devastating truth - all this time I had been reading these stories and thinking Dumbledore and Hermione and Harry and Voldemort were all real, historical figures, and here you are telling me that it's all fiction, a LIE!

(Runs away crying.)

Re: Marie Devine | 10:34 a.m. July 15, 2009

your insightful and helpful comment really persuaded me. I'm throwing away the two tickets I have to see that evil movie that teaches our kids about the devil. Come to think of it I should go to the theatre and protest, thats the only way God will be happy with me. Darn that Ms. Rowlings for having a creative imagination!

To Marie Devine | 10:49 a.m. July 15, 2009

Really? I sincerely believe Harry Potter has Christian themes and is an inspired story of good vs evil. It is uplifting entertainment. I think God approves.

Sleepy today | 10:51 a.m. July 15, 2009

Saw it at midnight with all of the others, it was worth the wait and staying up late! I think it's a classic tale of good vs. evil, and can be very spiritually uplifting. The potions and spells are metaphors for life, the things we must do to triumph over the dark forces that might try to attack all that is is good and holy.

To Marie Devine | 11:04 a.m. July 15, 2009

Seriously?? I mean, really? Exactly how much of your time did you waste doing all of that research? I don't think I'll waste any more of my time thinking more about it. I think I'll just head down to the Megaplex to see Harry Potter!

Chass | 11:09 a.m. July 15, 2009

Lighten up folks. It's a movie.

Dale | 11:10 a.m. July 15, 2009

And to think, my brother, a devout retired Lutheran minister, did not pick up on all of Marie's devine insights. He and I have passed several hours worth of conversations by discussing how Rowling had incorporated values into her themes. We raced each other to complete reading each new novel first and then to see each new cimematic installment and how it matched the printed works. Now I guess we'll have to do something else.
Marie, would you mind sending me your tickets?

Disappointed | 11:14 a.m. July 15, 2009

I was disappointed by the film. Maybe my expectations were too high, but I thought the ending was weak. Where was the battle scene? There was no emotional climax for me. I agree with Mik. The movie left me feeling like I wanted more.

The movie should be retitled: Harry Potter and the Chick Flick.

Gosh | 11:45 a.m. July 15, 2009

Isn't Harry Potter based on Mormonism? Kinda similar don't you think? Spooky!

Hey Marie | 12:02 p.m. July 15, 2009

When was the last time you saw an actual witch flying through the air? If you can't separate reality from make believe, you need to visit a psychiatrist. You might also want to see the average definition of "lie" v. "fiction." They are dramatically different. You do realize that even Jesus told fictional stories known as parables to make a point, don't you? Sheesh!

Entertaining | 1:11 p.m. July 15, 2009

If I may steer away from the current topic for a second....I loved this 6th movie!! I am not a fan of movies 3-5 (because of the new Dumbledore, different directors than the first), so I wasn't expecting much out of this 6th. However, it was very enjoyable and the acting was much better in it. Dumbledore didn't bug me as much, and in fact I started to like him. For all those "Harry Potter book lovers but movie haters" people, I recommend going in with an open mind and seeing it, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised!

Yo Marie | 1:13 p.m. July 15, 2009

So all fiction, ie lies, are evil? Ever teach your kids to believe in Santa Claus? The tooth fairy? Ever tell your kids to eat the crusts on their bread or they won't grow up big and strong? Have you ever told your kids a shot won't hurt?

Life is full of the lies we tell to get us through this mortal existence. You've never told one to a child?

Anonymous | 1:15 p.m. July 15, 2009

I really liked the 5th movie, so maybe I'm weird, but this one felt a little of a let-down. Still well-done and enjoyable, I like how they fleshed out Draco's thread.

Anonymous | 1:45 p.m. July 15, 2009

The old testiment also says that a woman should be stoned to death if not "pure" on her wedding day. People quoting the old testament scare me.

The movie was really good although I agree a bit with Harry Potter and the Chick Flick. But if you are any demographic besides an 8-18 year old male then you probably won't mind all that.

Goodbye Dumbledore | 3:01 p.m. July 15, 2009

The good thing about this movie is that finally the series will be rid of the horrible actor playing Dumbledore. He has never been up to the role and it will be good riddance to him.

20 bucks | 3:08 p.m. July 15, 2009

says marie devine is out to see how many comments they can get.

Anonymous | 4:12 p.m. July 15, 2009

Dumbledore is in the Deathly Hallows.

Goodbye Dumbledore? | 5:51 p.m. July 15, 2009

Have you ever read the books? Pretty sure he has a big part in it. You are so gay. Unlike Dumbledore.

Cliff's Notes | 11:35 p.m. July 15, 2009

I think of the 6 movies, this is the one I would have enjoyed had I not read the books. Yes, visually stunning, good pacing and acting, nice balance of light and dark. But the whole enthralling thing about the book was the backstory on Tom Riddle, his really odd family, and his journey from just a spooky kid to the Dark Lord Voldemort. What do we get? Two memories, neither of which gave the backstory on Voldy's family, where the magic and two of the Horcruxes came from, how Tom Riddle Sr. and mom Merope and her crazy father and brother fit into the picture, how Voldy really is Slytherin's heir, and all this other good stuff. Anyone know if there's a director's cut?

Re the Biblical slant and this series teaching kids to worship Satan, although Tolkien and Lewis have a much stronger moral center (Rowling does seem to put in elements that just seem like a good idea at the time), this is fantasy fiction and Voldy is clearly the villain. The idea that we have both good and evil within us and must choose is consonant with the Bible.

In Midvale | 1:30 a.m. July 16, 2009

I found the movie to be emotionally flat. Liked the interplay between the kids, but a major character dies and I don't think a single tear was shed in the theater. The ending should have been exciting--it was just there--it should have envolved you like the book--like Lord of the Rings--but it didn't. Too bad.

urgghh | 10:35 a.m. July 16, 2009

I hate reader comments! I'll put it simply. If you are a fan of the books, you may not like the movie since it leaves out seemingly important parts of the book and adds in seemingly unimportant parts. i.e. the first scene. But if you aren't a superfan, you will probably enjoy the movie as it was very well made.

Chadders | 11:18 a.m. July 16, 2009

I sure hope Marie Devine is joking. If you can't understand that at it's core Harry Potter is the battle of good overcoming evil then you have serious issues.
I agree with a lot of people's comments, there seemed to be important parts missing. If you don't read the books you are missing a LOT of what happens. I didn't get why the burrow got destroyed in the movie, and why all the parts about Tom Riddle are gone. I hope that will be in the next movie. I did like the touch they added where everyone raises their wands and cast a light spell to overcome the dark mark. Light overcomes dark, hint hint. All in all it was a pretty good movie.

Hooray for Religion | 1:35 p.m. July 16, 2009

I really liked Marie Devine's comments. Her comments were entertaining along with the many responses. Her religious ambitions show how religion can screw up a person. Good learning lesson.

TKC | 9:18 p.m. July 16, 2009

Ugh, I hate to say it, but I was disappointed in it. It was funny, it was cute, it was pretty visually, but that's not what I wanted!!! I wanted more story, I wanted more emotional entanglements between the good and evil characters not the emotional entanglements of the younger characters falling in love. For sure I wanted more lines from the book, strong lines that say in a few words how the character really feels at that moment like when Dumbledore is weakened after they leave the cave at ehe end and he tells Harry "I am not worried, Harry...I am with you."

I may be too picky, but it's so hard after you've read a rich book to go to the movie adaptation of it and to find it as captivating. As movies go, it was a good one. As book-based movies go, it was hit with a confundus charm.

To Marie Devine | 8:21 a.m. July 17, 2009

Marie Devine: We are so similar. I didn't see Snakes on a Plane because Satan was a serpent in Genesis, and I didn't want to see a whole bunch of Satans on a plane.

Fiction | 10:48 a.m. July 17, 2009

I picked up my copies of the book in the fiction section of the book store. Same as The DaVinci Code and Angels and Demons. I looked in the religion section but couldn't find any of these titles. Marie...you are as scary to me as the nerds who dress up and think they are the characters. Keep things in perspective...you know...moderation in all things.

funny | 11:14 a.m. July 17, 2009

Marie has hit a nerve. She has made a great point. Do you believe the bible? perspective is a great thing, without it the Bible can be just as damaging as the Koran, mine Kamph, or harry potter. With it all can be life changing works of literature.

Forget about Marie | 12:31 p.m. July 17, 2009

I'm going with my wife to see the movie tomorrow. We can't wait! We've been looking forward to this for months. The Half-blood Prince is one of my favorite books in the Harry Potter series and I've enjoyed every film adaptation of the books. Can't wait for the Deathly Hallows two-part movie!

B.L. | 8:22 p.m. July 18, 2009

Was my least favorite of all of the movies. I know that sounds harsh, but come on, the biggest action sequence besides Dumbledore's "ring of fire" was the segment with Harry and Ginny chasing Bellatrix through the field...and that wasn't even a part of the book! I hope the director makes up for lost time with his final two installments.

Dissapointed | 5:28 p.m. July 19, 2009

Although I laughed the most during the movie (especially during Harry's lucky potion scene) it seemed as though they were so focused on the comedy, it lacked in the drama & suspense. I kind of thought some of the acting was rather dry, but I was impressed with Draco Malfoy's acting. I thought that Ginny and Harry's relationship was shallow and unmeaningful. And when Dumbledore died I was kind of like, "That's too bad." However, this was my favorite film with the new Dumbledore.
Overall, it stuck with the book well, the actual film was visually stunning and full of comedy, but lacking in deep emotion, drama and suspense that the book has.

Didn't meet expectation | 10:16 a.m. July 20, 2009

The 5th movie was incredible! really intense and action packed. the duel w/ voldemort & dumbledore at the end was an awesome scene. the 5th BOOK was the worst of the series. the 5th MOVIE was the best of the movies so far. the 6th lacked all those things the 5th had. the 6th wasn't intense enough, action packed enough, or dark enough for me (except when that girl got possessed-creepy.) I still liked the movie, but I was not excepting to see a comedy film, I expected an action/thriller more like the 5th was, especially b/c the same guy directed it. hopefull the 7th's are more like the 5th.

@Didn't meet | 5:01 p.m. July 20, 2009

You seriously went to an HP movie expecting an intense, action packed thriller? AHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

It's a film for children.

focilized | 9:30 p.m. July 20, 2009

I've read the books for the past 6 or seven years and can't remember whatever was in or left out of the movie; all I remember now of the movie is that it was 2.5 hours long and I had drunk way too much soda. Looking forward to more of Marie's posting and the fun comeback comments!

Great Movie | 11:16 a.m. July 21, 2009

The opening scene with the bridge was a brilliant way to start the show. The only thing I really thought felt out of place was the intro of Harry at the cafe with the waitress. The original idea of Dumbledore visiting the Dursleys to get Harry was sorely missed in my opinion. However, the rest of the movie was a delight and I was entertained every minute. I especially liked Aragog's burial (since I thought it wouldn't have made it into the movie) and seeing a lighter side to Harry's usually brooding behavior. Luna Lovegood and Ron Weasley were brilliant in this film and Draco Malfoy was better than ever. The scene in the cave was actually scarier than I thought it would be and very well done. I didn't want it to end and I can't wait for the next chapter.

Dissapointed | 12:27 p.m. July 21, 2009

This was a bad movie if you like the books.

Stop changing things that don't need to be changed, stop adding things that are plain stupid, and leave things in that are critical to book 7.

I thought the movie was bad, bad, bad.

I am so sad.

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Movie Info

Rated PG for violence, brief gore, mild profanity, vulgarity, drug use.

Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Jim Broadbent, Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Warwick Davis, Michael Gambon, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith

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Daniel Radcliffe in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."

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