Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Movie)

Synopsis

Harry enters his second year at Hogwarts with a series of events that all point toward another eventful year. However, all of that is trumped by the announcement of the secretive Chamber of Secrets being opened.

Review

Like the book, this is my least favorite movie. While it does setup the idea that wasn't realized by the time of filming/writing that the horocrux's were a thing, overall it is a continuation of this formulaic movie creation. Part of that is because they took a couple weeks/months off between the filming of Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone to run right into filming this one. It is crazy the pace they kept.

Again the young guns do a great job of playing more roles and according to the behind the scenes and commentary, they did more improvising based on the events. In particular there is a scene in Dumbledore's office where there is a combination of improved lines that just show additional growth.

What really hurts this movie is the source. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is just a boringish book and this movie is the same. It is very singular to the overall story and I just think this movie really doesn't add much to the characters either.

My Rating

It is about right here that I regret trying to watch all these movies. I know that I am only 2 in, but this one is just so slow. The special effects of using dummies that are painted to look like the characters rather than using CGI is a huge lift to what could be a CGI heavy movie. I have some issues with the snake, specifically the fact that the snake can smell Harry, but a singular thrown rock is enough to distract this apex predator? It just doesn't make sense to me. Overall, the story is the biggest hit to this movie. The cast is awesome, the setting is just as good as the previous. It is a 7, but barely.

Parental Rating

No language, a little more violence with an adult attempting to straight up kill a kid, and that is about it. My dad is still not interested in the content, but isn't apposed to it. My mom is still involved. Approved by both.

Want to get a hold of me?
Email | reviews@epicscreentime.com