Love it or hate it, the global Harry Potter film phenomena has surprised us all, fans and non-fans alike. Those who poo-poo the franchise must still admit that it’s an impressive cinematic feat to pull off releasing seven (number eight to come July 2011) astoundingly successful films in the span of almost 10 years. Each new film and each J.K. Rowling release generates as much anticipation and excitement as the last, and with each new saga, more and more viewers are being thrust into the magic. And speaking of magic, it is indeed pure magic when a cast spends that amount of time together and escapes the controversy and conflict that kills most franchises.
So far, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. I has been met with underwhelming critical acclaim. Most reviewers seem to think the apex of the series will be reached somewhere in Deathly Hallows Pt. II, the grande dame of all finales. Whether or not Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, or Rupert Grint ever make it into your water cooler conversations, there are millions of people out there who are going to enjoy these remarkable films long after those young stars fizzle out. All three of them have gone through something few of us can even imagine. Their lives were held in suspended animation for almost a decade, and today, they most likely can’t enjoy a spot of tea anywhere in public without being accosted. It’s a high price to pay, but they’ve all done it with grace and dignity, and for that, we as film lovers should be truly grateful.
So, though we’re primarily indie film buffs, the LFC will most certainly hit the theaters to take in this weekend’s HP release. Suzz will in fact be seeing the film today at 2PM with a gaggle of her forty-something year-old friends/Potter fans (er, keep those comments to yourselves). If anything, Harry Potter has made Going to the Movies exciting again, and for that alone, we are pretty thankful.
Whatever your plans are for this weekend, we hope it involves enjoying a great film, be it alone in the privacy of your home or out in the company of good friends and family. Film enjoyment is universal. Be sure to indulge often.
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