I can categorically say that, despite being a fan of the Harry Potter franchise, the films frequently suffer the same flaws as the books in that, in sticking so rigidly to the source material, there are times when the movie counterparts lag, for example: despite being the shortest of the all the films, The Order of the Phoenix is still the slowest of the bunch, where as Azkaban and Goblet are the most busy (and, still, the most entertaining).
My issues with The Deathly Hallows, both book and film, came in the first half in which the narrative comes to a crawl. Our heroes, unsure of where their quest will take them, spend much of their time sitting and talking…and talking, and with more talking. And did I mention there was some talking in their too?
In splitting the last book into two films, it was immediately apparent, to me at least, that part 1 would follow the same trappings as the book and I'm afraid to say that I was proven right. Despite a very good opening half hour that sets the ominous tone from the go, once the trio of young wizards start camping I found myself getting bored. I then looked at my watch to find there was still a good two hours left of the film.
The basic crux of the matter is that there really is no need to split this film in two. It is clear that Warner Bros. are somewhat loathed to let one of their biggest cash cows finish too soon (despite the series now being ten years old). Money grabbing if you will. Deathly Hallows should have been one three hour swan song that excised much of the talking and aimed for all things epic, something that is at least promised in part 2.
I did like the impending sense of dread though and it's final fifteen were suitably bleak. It does get extra kudos for tone and some truly excellent set pieces and the performances, for the most part, are excellent. Just enough with the camping already. It doesn't make for overly thrilling entertainment.
3/5
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