The longest book, the shortest movie. When it was over, it felt like 45 minutes, though it was 140.
Lots of details left out, the essentials were all there. The climatic battle in the Ministry of Magic’s hidden rooms was one long scene, rather than moving from one fascinating and dangerous room to several others. The scene with the fountain was gripping – Harry’s struggles compressed and painful.
Harry, Hermione and Ron have clearly grown up, physically and emotionally. My favorite line: when Hermione accuses Ron of having the emotional range of a teaspoon, followed in a moment by laughter from all three of them.
The horrible Inquisitor got her deserved comeuppance. Her costumes set the perfect jarring pink tone for her role – and she played it perfectly. With the result that I didn’t even want to look at her. Imagine what the students were feeling!
Special effects were incredible (Hagrid’s brother!) and in almost every scene. Dumbledore’s army gave us opportunities to get to know more students better.
The important death was truly shocking, the ending, with the world mostly returned to its proper order, was very satisfying.
I am definitely going to see it again. And need to re-read book six to be ready for 7 on the 21st!