Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows : Part 1

Review by Sean Lynch

The beginning of the end has finally arrived, as we say goodbye to Harry Potter and his friends for the final time. But fear not - because it's going to take at least six hours and two screening to get there!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is the seventh and final adventure in the Harry Potter franchise, which to date has grossed over $6.1 Billion Worldwide, with Part 1 being offered up now.

Now, on the surface, we are being told that this final film being split into two films is "For The Fans", so that no details are left out. In one regard, yes, that's true. Part One is literally half a movie - and still clocks in at the same length as some of the other longer installments. But, we all know, it's just a greedy cash grab.

The question is - does it work as a stand alone movie (or a movie at all for that matter?). The answer, sadly, is no.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 begins as Harry, Ron and Hermione set out on their perilous mission to track down and destroy the secret to Voldemort's immortality and destruction - the four Horcruxes. 

On their own, without the guidance of their professors or the protection of Professor Dumbledore (who is currently resting in a rather expensive looking grave), the three friends must now rely on one another more than ever. But, as usual, Dark Forces threaten to tear them apart both inside and out.

There is quite a lot to like about this movie. It's slick, the chemistry between the cast is quite possibly the best a film franchise has ever seen - and the impending sense of doom is overwhelming. But it's half a movie - and feels like it.

When the credits begin to roll (for the record, the split comes at about Chapter 24 in the books), there is an empty feeling. Not one of excitement to see the conclusion - but more so of not getting any sense of closure or satisfaction from the story you just watched.

After all, if you are going to invest 3 hours of your life in something - you need to get some sense of satisfaction from it. Yet, what is offered up here is the cinematic equivalent of "Blue Balls".

Don't get me wrong, it's an amazingly impressive movie, near perfect in every single way - but it's still only half a movie. My advice, wait until July for Part 2 and the inevitable "Part 1 and Part 2" movie marathons. 

Sure, it'll be a monster 6 hour session - but it's guaranteed to give you everything you need from a movie and more.

3.5 out of 5

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows : Part 1
Australian release: 18th November, 2010
Official Site: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows : Part 1
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Tom Felton
Director: David Yates