First, a disclaimer. This review is not biased, despite me being a huge Harry Potter fan (read the first four at the age of six, bought the other books on the day they came out and read them on that same day, read every book at least ten times) as the film was just incredible. Also, avoid this review if you haven't seen the film yet, as there are spoilers.
The film starts with a short recap of the previous film, then jumps into some establishing discussions between the trio and the prisoners from Malfoy Manor at Shell Cottage (which is such a beautiful setting, with loads of little touches like tiny decorative shells on the walls.)
The difference between this film and those preceding it is that the shots are far more lingering; the film is based on a mere 200 or 300 pages of Deathly Hallows, and Yates' executive decision to allow the scenes to breathe is a great one. It's truly Harry's last hurrah.
We also hear a lot from characters that haven't been featured for a while; namely, McGonagall, Neville and Luna; all of whom are pretty kickass in this film, and got quite a few laughs from the audience. Aberforth Dumbledore is also memorable, and the scene added where he produces his Patronus at the battle is a welcome addition.
However, there were a few parts of the movie that I don't think benefited by adding humour. One example was when Voldemort hugs Draco as he rejoins their ranks; I did find it amusing (along with the rest of the cinema) but I found it killed the mood a little- after all, Harry was supposed to be dead at this point. Another moment was Harry throwing himself at Voldemort along with the immortally cheesy line; I think at one point their faces merge (?!) It was a really bizarre scene, and I personally think it wasn't needed. However, the touch of humour with Neville at the entrance of the bridge was really well done; the cinema roared, and it did lighten the mood somewhat in such a dark film.
One of my favourite things about the film was the sense of urgency; the quick shots of Harry fighting his way through the crowd interjected with Ron and Hermione in the Chamber of Secrets made a really convincing effect. Ron and Hermione's kiss wasn't a letdown, as other reviews have made out; I think it was the perfect culmination after all those years of sexual tension!
The Prince's Tale was just so well done; I was sobbing unashamedly at several points! The only thing that annoyed me slightly was Petunia calling Lily a freak at the playground and the omission of her letter to Dumbledore; I think that information was really important to make her a more rounded character.
However, another negative was the way most of the deaths were done. Lupin and Tonks' deaths in the book was a bit of a letdown; but I would have liked to have seen the filmmakers do something more interesting in the film. Likewise, Fred's death did not have enough emotional impact; I was really disappointed about that, as he was one of my favourite characters. However, Snape's death was definitely emotional, and the change from the Shrieking Shack to the boathouse was a good choice cinematically.
Overall, I adored the film! I'm seeing it for the second time in a couple of weeks with my family, and I already can't wait. Thank you, Harry Potter, for being my childhood.
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