Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: July 15, 2009
7.2
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Generally favorable reviews based on 1333 Ratings
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Positive:
941
Mixed:
246
Negative:
146
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7
DanielV.Jul 18, 2009
Well, I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I am a big Harry Potter fan. But I honestly do not think this movie could have strayed any farther from the book! Yates did not do a good job at captivating the story of Half Blood Prince, and I was Well, I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I am a big Harry Potter fan. But I honestly do not think this movie could have strayed any farther from the book! Yates did not do a good job at captivating the story of Half Blood Prince, and I was disappointed. For those who have not read the books could essentially view this movie as filler. I am just glad Bay didn't direct this movie. Expand
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3
TedD.Jul 18, 2009
Hard to follow, glossed over important parts of the book, added a couple scenes which weren't even in the book at all. If you haven't read the book it'll probably be confusing, even I was confused and I've read it several Hard to follow, glossed over important parts of the book, added a couple scenes which weren't even in the book at all. If you haven't read the book it'll probably be confusing, even I was confused and I've read it several times. If it was more faithful to the book I wouldn't have minded that it was so long, but as it stands it's not. I will however give this a three simply because of the scene where Dumbledore gets rid of the inferi by making a spinning vortex of fire. Good effects and overall the acting was pretty good most of the time, but so much is wrong with this movie it'll confuse people who haven't read the book and make fans of the series cringe with how poorly the book adapted. Expand
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7
MikeN.Jul 18, 2009
Lacks a proper villain. None of the baddies gets enough lines to reach critical menace. Nice production, good acting. Watchable.
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0
XavierK.Jul 18, 2009
This was so bad, I was amazed at the Critic's evaluation. If you gave this movie 2 stars; you are brain-dead. The dialogue was inaudible for the most part. The length of the movie was ridiculous, the action scenes were juvenile, the This was so bad, I was amazed at the Critic's evaluation. If you gave this movie 2 stars; you are brain-dead. The dialogue was inaudible for the most part. The length of the movie was ridiculous, the action scenes were juvenile, the speical effects were stupid. Altogether, the worse film I have seen (I walked out, half-way through). Expand
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2
TravisWJul 18, 2009
Poor script writing, poor direction. The screenwriter had a difficult task of adapting a huge book, and decided to gut most of the character building involving struggle and growth, and only implement teen angst and romance. The director must Poor script writing, poor direction. The screenwriter had a difficult task of adapting a huge book, and decided to gut most of the character building involving struggle and growth, and only implement teen angst and romance. The director must believe the kids have no acting skills for drama or characterization. The seventh movies will be a huge success, but are already ruined for me knowing the helm is already being steered by the incompetent. Expand
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9
AlexPJul 18, 2009
By far - the best Harry Potter film to date. It's real. It's fantasy, but it's real. Finally we have CHARACTERS, no just twenty minutes of fireworks and amazing battles. Better than I thought.
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8
BrianMJul 18, 2009
As someone who has read the books, I have to admit that the amount of plot left out of the movie was disappointing. But that said, as a cinematic experience The Half Blood Prince was thrilling and very fun to watch. The acting skills of the As someone who has read the books, I have to admit that the amount of plot left out of the movie was disappointing. But that said, as a cinematic experience The Half Blood Prince was thrilling and very fun to watch. The acting skills of the cast as a whole have noticeably improved from other installments, and the stronger focus on characters besides Harry was a nice change of storytelling style. Overall, what was used from the original plot-line still made for a good movie, making it one of my favorite Potter films. It shows promise for the next chapter, which, being split into two movies, might allow the final book to be told with a more complete story line. Expand
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3
MikeD.Jul 18, 2009
Movie left too many key story points out. The movie should have been three hours, if needed, to include these points (order of the phoenix and the DA against the death eaters, Fleur and Weasly, etc). The added scenes at the weasly house and Movie left too many key story points out. The movie should have been three hours, if needed, to include these points (order of the phoenix and the DA against the death eaters, Fleur and Weasly, etc). The added scenes at the weasly house and the added scenes with Bellatrix added nothing. These stories get increasingly dark and more violent as the climax of good against evil looms. This movie takes many steps backwards from the creative work done to date in the movies. Expand
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6
CameronLJul 18, 2009
The movie has a heavy focus on relationships and attraction. These moments led to awkwardly funny moments that at the most part made me laugh. It was worth sitting through the love scenes, as the last 30 minutes were amazing.
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3
JonathanZ.Jul 18, 2009
This was one of the worst movies they ever did. it was nothing like the book and there was no action they added parts that souldnt of been there and they took out parts that are vital to the seventh movie so overall they screwed up one of This was one of the worst movies they ever did. it was nothing like the book and there was no action they added parts that souldnt of been there and they took out parts that are vital to the seventh movie so overall they screwed up one of the most important movies in the series. Expand
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10
JimD.Jul 18, 2009
A great, exciting,fun, emotional, ride!!!! A real treat for potter fans.
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2
KarenH.Jul 18, 2009
I absolutely loved the first 5 movies. They were filled with lots of action, suspense, etc., etc. With all the hype about this movie I just had to see it. I sat in the theater wondering when it was going to get to a good part. It just I absolutely loved the first 5 movies. They were filled with lots of action, suspense, etc., etc. With all the hype about this movie I just had to see it. I sat in the theater wondering when it was going to get to a good part. It just wasn't there for me. Too little of anything for me. I really expected better. Expand
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7
LexBJul 18, 2009
Okay, we have the teenage love scenes, the super special effects, and the best selling book to support the film. But we also have a dull scenario filled with stupid dialogues and a lot of added things that weren't really needed. But, Okay, we have the teenage love scenes, the super special effects, and the best selling book to support the film. But we also have a dull scenario filled with stupid dialogues and a lot of added things that weren't really needed. But, it's not so bad. The opening scene, the Harry-Luna on the train scene, the cave scene, the Katie Bell scene, etc, etc. All of them were intriguing and greatly made. Ron ''love scenes'' were hilarious and I enjoyed watching them. What I didn't like is the fact that this is yet another HP movie that tells the book so - fast!!! One minute Harry's on the station, talking to Dumbled - oops, now he's convincing Slugho - oops, he's aboard the Hogwarts expr - oops, now we see Draco with the - oops, Dumbie is dead. Rare is the person who will understand the film without reading the book. ANd also, so many things that are important in the books were cut from the film, while some unnecessary scenes were added, such as the attack on the Burrow. What the hell was that?? All in all, just another brick in the wall. I mean, all in all, another HP film that focused more on the effects than on the script. I even prefer OotP to this movie. I'm not saying HP6(the movie, of course) is bad, it is good. It is a lot of fun and a real summer blockbuster and all. But, for the fans of the book, and the may-be future ones, it's another disappointment. Expand
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6
InnaBJul 18, 2009
I'm torn about this movie. The cinematography is breathtaking, details are exquisite ans the score is sublime. I really wanted to like it. I'm not a huge HP fan, but since it's such a cultural phenomenon I did read the books I'm torn about this movie. The cinematography is breathtaking, details are exquisite ans the score is sublime. I really wanted to like it. I'm not a huge HP fan, but since it's such a cultural phenomenon I did read the books and watched the movies, and after the third one the movies started to grow on me. So I was looking forward seeing this one, especially since trailers and previews were so compelling. But now I wish there was more substance in addition to the visuals. Since it was a while since I read the book, when I left the theater my overall feeling was ", what happened to the plot?". They either shouldn't make it more action packed (while trimming most of romantic stuff) or turn it into a two-parter w/ a better developed story. Maybe it's just a clever ploy to make people buy extended edition DVD and books to try to make sense of the story? Expand
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10
GermanB.Jul 18, 2009
Loved it!!! The best so far... it's darker, and funny, the performances are really good, the music is beautiful, the cinematography is really good too; in the end, a really good summer blockbuster and a good addition to the series, Loved it!!! The best so far... it's darker, and funny, the performances are really good, the music is beautiful, the cinematography is really good too; in the end, a really good summer blockbuster and a good addition to the series, let´s wait DH:P1. Expand
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0
ZackCJul 18, 2009
I'm with Richard B this was not Harry Potter at all. obviously anyone who gave this a good review did not read the books.
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9
NickB.Jul 18, 2009
Loved the film-noir style. Also, the juxtaposition of teenage relationships and the not-so-distant war was superb. It was nice to see a Harry Potter movie that was more about developing emotion, character and intent. This movie is intended Loved the film-noir style. Also, the juxtaposition of teenage relationships and the not-so-distant war was superb. It was nice to see a Harry Potter movie that was more about developing emotion, character and intent. This movie is intended to be the "calm before the storm" that will be the adaptations of the 7th book, and it does so in an emotionally satisfying way. Expand
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7
PatrickG.Jul 18, 2009
I thought this was one of the best Harry Potter movies so far. I'm not a hardcore fan, but I have read all the books and seen all the movies. The movie moved at a quick pace, and the sprinkling of humor helped lighten the mood at just I thought this was one of the best Harry Potter movies so far. I'm not a hardcore fan, but I have read all the books and seen all the movies. The movie moved at a quick pace, and the sprinkling of humor helped lighten the mood at just the right moments. My only complaint was the ending. I remembered it being much more dramatic in the book. Expand
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0
EricFJul 17, 2009
Easily the the worst of the 6 movies thus far. I'm so disappointed. Yates did a passible job directing the last film but this one was totally unacceptable. The cinematography was poorly done; the sets were obviously cheap -- some even Easily the the worst of the 6 movies thus far. I'm so disappointed. Yates did a passible job directing the last film but this one was totally unacceptable. The cinematography was poorly done; the sets were obviously cheap -- some even looked like painted plywood; the screenplay was boring -- the dialog dragged on in some scenes, but was rushed in others. Critical story elements were left out, while countless irrelavent story elements were added. I am so sad that Yates will be doing the next two films. Expand
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7
KevinC.Jul 17, 2009
The story is better, the effects are better, its funnier, and just more entertaining than the other Harry Potter movies. Also, Helena Bonham Carter is very very good.
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2
TimWJul 17, 2009
Flat like a tire. Drab. Was there a sound track? Stark coloring. Eviscerated the book. By far the worst H.P. movie. Ridiculous dialogue. The sort of work an ADHD meth addict would do if he were spiraling into suicidal depression. Had all the Flat like a tire. Drab. Was there a sound track? Stark coloring. Eviscerated the book. By far the worst H.P. movie. Ridiculous dialogue. The sort of work an ADHD meth addict would do if he were spiraling into suicidal depression. Had all the emotion of a tax return. Luna Lovegood earned both points I gave this film. She's the only reason to see it. She was perfect. Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
8
SebastianLJul 17, 2009
Two consistent complaints--(1) that the movie recklessly, if at all, adapts the book and (2) that the movie has no central story--ironically settle one another. In fact, Rowling's book lacks a self-contained story and is itself a Two consistent complaints--(1) that the movie recklessly, if at all, adapts the book and (2) that the movie has no central story--ironically settle one another. In fact, Rowling's book lacks a self-contained story and is itself a hodge-podge of fillers that simply builds an emotional bridge to the conclusion. So the film represents the basic play of the book very well. In fact, considering that #7 basically saves Hogwarts for a final fireworks show (and otherwise forgets it), Yates basically had no option but to treat this as Hogwart's/Dumbledore's farewell (and Malfoy's/Snape's hello/grander hello). That being said, switching out a few teen tryst scenes for a few scenes more directly following the book's slightly elevated arc of a plot would have resulted in less viewer confusion--and fan frustration. Treating the movie as-is, this installment bravely decides to rest on the shoulders of the actors and largely succeeds in the endeavor. Broadbent's Slughorn matches Staunton's Umbridge from Phoenix, which is saying something, and Rickman's Snape presses the character to new places. For my money, only two movie characters absolutely embody their counter characters in the books: Snape and Luna. Which leads to the concluding note: as the movie wages so much on the talents of its young actors, it suffers because the actress who plays Ginny just isn't up to the task. The "romance" (ick) scenes between Harry and her are uncomfortable, to spin it positively. Since Yates doesn't mind taking liberties with the novels, let Harry end up with Luna and don't worry about explaining it (we're used to a lack of explanation at this point). Expand
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10
DakotaG.Jul 17, 2009
This movie was amazing! It was so awesome to see those certain scenes that ive been waiting since 2005 to see, up on the big screen. This is definitely the best movie of the year!!
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3
TiffanyJul 17, 2009
If i hadn't read the book, maybe i wouldn't have been so dissapointed with this movie. But then again, i wouldn't understand a thing when the 7th comes around. I dont understand what they were thinking cutting every If i hadn't read the book, maybe i wouldn't have been so dissapointed with this movie. But then again, i wouldn't understand a thing when the 7th comes around. I dont understand what they were thinking cutting every good/important peice out of this movie. I could name atleast 15 things missing/wrong in this movie. I say they re-make it. Just awful, if certain parts werent funny, or they hadnt stuck that tiny little bit of action in there I would give it a 0. Expand
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10
BrandonD.Jul 17, 2009
By far the best Harry Potter movie to date. Obviously there will be some changes when translating a book to a movie, but for the first time I have to say, I'm fine with what they changed. So much so that I think the movie is better than By far the best Harry Potter movie to date. Obviously there will be some changes when translating a book to a movie, but for the first time I have to say, I'm fine with what they changed. So much so that I think the movie is better than the book. Expand
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9
ZachZ.Jul 17, 2009
There is always room for growth in a series that continues to flourish and mature after each outing. With Order of the Phoenix director David Yates at the helm and screenwriter Steve Kloves back after a short hiatus (he was the true source ofThere is always room for growth in a series that continues to flourish and mature after each outing. With Order of the Phoenix director David Yates at the helm and screenwriter Steve Kloves back after a short hiatus (he was the true source of the last film's weakness), Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is a fantastic film that is brimming with comedy, drama, love, and loss. As of this moment, I would count it as the best Harry Potter film yet, a quite significant word of praise considering how great each installment has been to this point.

Opening with a shot of Dumbledore and Harry surrounded by reporters during the aftermath of the previous movie's ending and with a high-pitch, barely audible scream of Bellatrix Lestrange, I couldn't have imagined a better way to start this film. It suggested a more confident, risky approach at film-making and it sets the movie off at a perfect tone. Yates and Kloves have hit a stride in their work and now are perfectly complementing each other.

One immediate, noticeable key to this film's success is its seamless transitions between the Muggle and Wizard world. A bright spot of my other favorite Potter film (Prisoner of Azkaban), the incorporation of the "other" world into their own makes the storytelling that much more believable, as well as display some truly spectacular special effects. A scene of the Death Eaters flying through various landmarks of London and causing havoc along the way is truly eye-opening. The cinematography remains extremely strong throughout and the general lack of much color and glamor suggests this newer, even more mature tone.

Of course, not everything in Hogwarts is dark and tragic; JK Rowling knows when to have fun. Romance is a new aspect of the teen's lives that is a huge focus for many scenes. Ron is feeling growing feelings for the always faithful Hermione, feelings that are tantamount or even more so. However, the horny, obsessive Lavender Brown gets in the way and steals Ron from his true partner, causing a feud between the two. Meanwhile, Harry starts to feel love for another person that should be deemed taboo to him, Ron's sister, Ginny. What follows is a typical teen love story that is made the more interesting by the actors' talents and the best part is that this is just one aspect of the film, not its leading cynosure.

The acting also continues to impress, unsurprisingly. Daniel Radcliffe still remains THE Harry Potter, even if his character may be overshadowed by the other, more interesting supporting characters. That is no slight to the leading man, of course. It just shows how rich of a world Rowling created and the breadth of talent and detail her books and the films hold. Rupert Grint is given a more comical outlook this time, usually providing the comic relief when the going gets tough. A particular scene with a overly strong love potion was hilarious to say the least, and even after a close encounter with death, Ron always has a lighthearted one-liner to deliver. Emma Watson returns as a more mature actress with looks to match the talent. Hermione has always been great, but the scenes involving her jealousy with Ron and the conflicting feelings she has show her peak so far, a benchmark that will surely be surpassed in the next film. After a while you wonder why Ron is stupid enough to look over the prettiest girl in the school but the end of the film can only foretell positive feelings for the future.

Many other characters continue to remain strong, such as Evanna Lynch's perfect rendition of Luna Lovegood as well as Tom Felton's haunting Draco Malfoy. Draco is given a heightened focus in this installment and his task assigned by Voldemort really defines who he has become. In addition, the Weasley family remains strong, even after a loss that was not in the book midway through the movie. Seasoned readers (such as myself) have been surprised. Hagrid, by Robbie Coltrane, returns all too briefly, but it is just a sign that the kids don't have much time to hang out with the big, lovable half-giant anymore. They need to grow up. Furthermore, Alan Rickman's Severus Snape remains wordlessly perfect, embodying the best character of the series with almost little noticeable effort. His work in the last film will be legendary if he continues along this path and with Rowling's source material. I have faith that he will not disappoint, a perfectly reasonable assumption for one of the greatest living actors at the moment.

Two characters are given the spotlight even more than most aforementioned ones in this installment. Dumbledore, played by Michael Gambon in a way that surpasses the late Richard Harris's standards (no disrespect to that excellent actor however), is an amazing character in every sense of the word. His vast knowledge and magical prowess have always made him a fascinating character with a rich history. Here, in one of his final acts, he once again leads Harry on this path to vanquish, once and for all, the dark lord, Lord Voldemort. Gambon brings so much charisma and energy to the role that the images of Rowling's descriptions and his acting go hand-in-hand. The fate of his character provides for a truly beautiful scene at the end.

The other character is none other than Professor Horace Slughorn, played by Jim Broadbent. Jim is a seasoned British actor and has won an Academy Award in the past, but out of every movie I have seen him act in so far, this is by far his best role yet. Slughorn's persona is improved upon with Broadbent, a compliment considering how much detail Rowling put into it herself. He provides many moments of hilarity, probably to hide his ashamed past. His role with Tom Riddle in years past haunts him years later; Harry has a task to see through the smoke screen and extract this vital info. However, Broadbent's character is not this dark in the long run. He loves to throw parties and cherish his prized students, hoping to gain fame or fortune from being a part of their progression. It may seem despicable but Broadbent makes Slughorn such a charming, somewhat hapless character that you can't help but route for him all along the way.

As mentioned earlier, the special effects are one of the showcases of the film, but thankfully not the film's main trait like the last one. Dumbledore's battle with the Inferni is epic to say the least, and the Death Eater assault on the Burrow is quite frightening. Even the Quidditch match is exciting!! An establishment in the series I usually am quite passive about, Quidditch is given a new outlook with its seamless special effects and concise editing. The visual effects department shone again with this installment but thankfully it is just a complement to every other bright, shining aspect this film has to offer.

In the end, Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince is the best film in the series yet. Forget about any number or rating assigned to this; I believe it is the best movie of the summer. There are a few qualms that can be had such as the fact that nothing essential to the plot occurs until the very end, but this is petty carping that tarnishes an otherwise pristine crown. If you are a fan of the series, you will love it. If not, you will be entranced and possibly hooked to JK Rowling's magical world, maybe enough to read the excellent books. For the first, real time, the film matches the artistic merit of its counterpart.
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4
SlyJJul 17, 2009
Maybe I slept through all the good parts, but the boredom was exceedingly difficult to fight off. What an unmotivated film, lacking in action, sparse on plot exposition and generally boring.
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8
PeteHJul 17, 2009
Pretty good movie all things considered. Had some clunky bits, but also had some really heart poundingly tense moments. If you hadn't read the book, bits may not make total sense, but it is already a long film, and including everything Pretty good movie all things considered. Had some clunky bits, but also had some really heart poundingly tense moments. If you hadn't read the book, bits may not make total sense, but it is already a long film, and including everything would see it bulldoze through the three hour mark comfortably! Expand
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10
KrisCoolJul 17, 2009
I think this has to be the best one yet. Look out Oscars 2010 competition called Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince is brewing up a storm.
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10
RyanAJul 17, 2009
The best one yet! Thrilling action and set pieces combined with oscar worthy acting and occasionally funny moments make Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince the best movie of the summer.
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2
RichardBJul 17, 2009
It was a Harry Potter movie in NAME only! David Yates (Director) must have sat in his office and said,"Now, how far can we gut this book and still be able to call it a Harry Potter movie and make some money off all those Potter fans?"It was a Harry Potter movie in NAME only! David Yates (Director) must have sat in his office and said,"Now, how far can we gut this book and still be able to call it a Harry Potter movie and make some money off all those Potter fans?" There's the book "The Half Blood Prince", and then there's the movie "The Half Blood Prince"......One has absolutely nothing to do with the other! Expand
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10
GlenAJul 17, 2009
This is the best Harry potter movie so far! It is very funny and emotional.
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6
DaveJJul 17, 2009
Brilliant acting, beautiful cinematography, fantastic effects, and moments of emotional power are completely undercut by the nearly complete incoherence of the story. Order of the Phoenix left me thinking that you had to know the books in Brilliant acting, beautiful cinematography, fantastic effects, and moments of emotional power are completely undercut by the nearly complete incoherence of the story. Order of the Phoenix left me thinking that you had to know the books in order to make sense of the story. David Yates and Richard Kloves have taken that to an extreme in this film. Large elements of the film make absolutely no sense whatsoever unless you've read the book. If you've read, then you can plug plot holes with what you know. Otherwise, all the characters seem to know things the audience is never clued into for the entire film. That's a cardinal sin in storytelling. I'm a huge fan of the books and films, and my expectations for Deathly Hallows' storyline have been reduced to zero by this film. Expand
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7
NirujanGJul 17, 2009
Its no more a kids movie, way too serious and matured and kinda dragging. The movie was dark just like how the book was, but the thing what i didn't like was that the story wasn't explained properly. The director cannot expect Its no more a kids movie, way too serious and matured and kinda dragging. The movie was dark just like how the book was, but the thing what i didn't like was that the story wasn't explained properly. The director cannot expect everyone to have read the book. I actually went with a friend who hasn't read the book, he was left fully confused i had to explain the story on the way back. In the previous movies they put only little things from the book and explained it well but here they have tried to put more story and failed to explain it. Even then there was some scenes which were very well taken. The background score could have been better, some parts would have been better if there was a music at the background, without being silent. The comedy was very good. What i think is that the movie would have been much better if they have put the climax fight from the book by removing some unwanted scenes which wasn't there in the book. There wasn't much magic or fight in the movie which my friend was expecting and it also failed to satisfy me by not showing the plots properly. Even though this movie lacks magic which the previous movies had one thing has improved a lot, the acting specially Dumbledore, when i watched the 4th movie i was very disappointed by his acting, instead of being calm and matured he was so jumpy and overactive but here he performed very well by bring out the real Dumbledore from the book. My suggestion for the movie makers would be to bring back John Williams, the music he composed for Prisoner of azkaban is one of the best composition i have ever heard. Overall it was fine. Expand
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10
tracydJul 17, 2009
I think that this is one of the best Harry Potter books yet. i love the humor and it had enough action to keep you interested. For anyone that read the book would know that even the book had a lot of snogging and it was more about getting to I think that this is one of the best Harry Potter books yet. i love the humor and it had enough action to keep you interested. For anyone that read the book would know that even the book had a lot of snogging and it was more about getting to see the character mature, there was very little fight scenes in the book as well so I think they did a great job putting into a movie that you could enjoy in only 2 1/2 hours. Well Done!! Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
embJul 17, 2009
This movie, just like the fifth harry potter, left vital information out of the movie and added useless junk that was completely un needed. not only that but each sceen just jumped to the next one with no flow and the sceens never really This movie, just like the fifth harry potter, left vital information out of the movie and added useless junk that was completely un needed. not only that but each sceen just jumped to the next one with no flow and the sceens never really build up to anything. with everything that was left out i doubt the seventh movie will be anything remotely close to the book. Expand
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3
RichardBJul 17, 2009
I took my children to see a movie from a book written by J.K.Rowling, not a movie written by David Yates. I, and my children, were very disappointed because this was a Harry Potter movie in name only. Where was the atmosphere from the I took my children to see a movie from a book written by J.K.Rowling, not a movie written by David Yates. I, and my children, were very disappointed because this was a Harry Potter movie in name only. Where was the atmosphere from the previous films? Why were the scenes so "set-up", wooden and stiff? And if Mr. Yates had time to invent scenes that were not in the book, then he surely had time to include things that WERE in the book. In the futue, if Mr Yates wishes to make a movie, he should write it himself, instead of gutting and ruining someone elses masterpiece. Expand
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4
CindyCJul 17, 2009
A better title for this movie would be "Harry Potter and the Half-Baked Plot". Important storylines are altered beyond recognition, barely touched upon or missing altogether, while trivial points that do not advance the story are dwelled on A better title for this movie would be "Harry Potter and the Half-Baked Plot". Important storylines are altered beyond recognition, barely touched upon or missing altogether, while trivial points that do not advance the story are dwelled on at length. Apparently it was more important to introduce a hypothetical waitress for Harry to flirt with at the beginning of the film than to retain the climactic battle between Death Eaters and Order members at the end. The spirit of what was already one of the more forgettable installments in the Potter series has been lost. The film does boast some highlights, including strong performances by Jim Broadbent, Tom Felton and the always-superb Alan Rickman. For every Slughorn, Draco or Snape, however, there's a Ginny Weasley, who is incapable of showing emotion even when sharing a first kiss with Harry. Other major characters (McGonnagal, Hagrid) are reduced to mere window dressing. While the film is visually stunning in places, the musical score matches Ginny Weasley's acting for blandness.. I can still hum music from the first four movies but can't recall a note from Half-Blood Prince -- and I saw the movie yesterday. Perhaps the most aggregious sin of this disappointing film is the ending, which has been gutted beyond recognition. Those who were looking forward to the battle between Death Eaters and Order members, or the tender scene between a greviously wounded Bill Weasley and Fleur Delacour, will be cruelly disappointed. What is left is an emotionless and rushed confrontation between Harry and Snape that is so poorly directed that the revelation regarding Snape at the end of Book 7 can be anticipated. I understand that one cannot remain 100% faithful when adapting books like this to film. However, decisions should remain true to the spirit of the book. (A superb example of this is Prizoner of Azkaban, still the best of the Potter films.) The screenwriter and director involved in Half-Blood Prince clearly don't get it, unfortunately. Their decision-making reminds me of scenes from the movie The Majestic, where film executives propose script changes that are increasingly ridiculous. "I've got a 'what if'...'" What if the screenwriter and director had left the ending of Half-Blood Prince intact? Then this would have been a much better film. I shudder to think that Book 7 is being handed to this same team. Expand
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8
RyanWJul 17, 2009
It was good and very funny but the ending could have been better, there was no massive duel with the death eaters. generally i liked it but i just wished they had made it a little more accurate to the book, they changed partys of the plot It was good and very funny but the ending could have been better, there was no massive duel with the death eaters. generally i liked it but i just wished they had made it a little more accurate to the book, they changed partys of the plot for no apparent reason. it was good but could still have been better for me. Expand
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2
AnonymousMCJul 17, 2009
its different from the other harry potter movies...the ambiance...the feel..the colors..whats going on people?u have the budget and the brilliant mind of the author....am 1 of the biggest harry potter fan..i read the whole series 7its different from the other harry potter movies...the ambiance...the feel..the colors..whats going on people?u have the budget and the brilliant mind of the author....am 1 of the biggest harry potter fan..i read the whole series 7 times...the others are way too good to be precedeed by this...please make the last one the best!!!! Expand
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7
ChadS.Jul 17, 2009
And now they're old enough to be taught about the birds and the bees. Wizards, witches: they grow up so fast these days, or rather, child actors, some of whom, like the three principal leads in "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince", And now they're old enough to be taught about the birds and the bees. Wizards, witches: they grow up so fast these days, or rather, child actors, some of whom, like the three principal leads in "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince", are lucky enough to remain relevant on the other side of puberty. In the process, however, their sexual maturity can be an uncomfortable experience for some. One-time child actress Alyssa Milano, for example, just twelve when she played Samantha Micelli on the defunct ABC sitcom "Who's the Boss", could have been a daughter you'd be proud to call your own. Next thing you know, she's doing things in Anne Goursaud's "Embrace of the Vampire" that turns you on, but wait a minute, weren't we vicariously experiencing fatherhood through Tony Danza's eyes not so way back? All of nine years when she starred in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone", Bonnie Wright(playing Ron Weasley's little sister Ginny), ends up in a unexpectedly suggestive position with Daniel Radcliffe(just twelve in the 2001 Chris Columbus-directed film), which began as an innocent offer to tie the wizard's shoes. You can be like the Michael Rappaport character in Ted Demme's "Beautiful Girls", who says about the beautiful, young Marty(Natalie Portman), "If she can cut her own food, she's fair game," but such objectification borders on the amoral. In "Beautiful Girls", Willie Conway(Timothy Hutton) tells a friend, "I was jealous of a little kid on a bike, because he gets to be her age, and I'm this vile old man," but since his relationship with the girl remains platonic, the male viewer never gets to be that "vile old man", diegetically speaking. But in "The Half-Blood Prince", Wright is indeed subjected to the male gaze, and for added kink, her image is mastered through a virginal wizard's bespectacled eyes. Expand
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3
ZachJJul 16, 2009
If you haven't read the book I'm not sure how you're supposed to make sense of these seemingly random events of teen-love and a sulking Malfoy--Malfroy? Ahh--who cares. It seemed like they were so busy trying to pay homage to If you haven't read the book I'm not sure how you're supposed to make sense of these seemingly random events of teen-love and a sulking Malfoy--Malfroy? Ahh--who cares. It seemed like they were so busy trying to pay homage to the book they forgot to create a central core of plot and theme around which to develop a comprehensible story. This felt more like a stepping stone to the next film than an actual movie within itself. Expand
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7
CattJul 16, 2009
Very slow going, could have used much tightening in the editing room and the story itself is much less compelling than other HP stories. After all these years trying to get used to Michael Gambon as Dumbledore I can definitively say I miss Very slow going, could have used much tightening in the editing room and the story itself is much less compelling than other HP stories. After all these years trying to get used to Michael Gambon as Dumbledore I can definitively say I miss Richard Harris more than ever in this one, his Dumbledore radiated love and whimsy in a way Gambon never did. And finally, I'm sorry but the girl playing Ginny Weasley must go no further! I know they've resisted recasting the kids as they grow, but she is utterly horrible, not even an actress, and they obviously shot whole scenes to accomodate this sad fact. Expand
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2
AmandaPJul 16, 2009
This movie left out MAJOR story arks of the book. It left the movie making no sense at all. I am a huge HP fan, I have loved the actors, acting, movie of past - but this one has to be the worst in keeping with the book. I was so excited, This movie left out MAJOR story arks of the book. It left the movie making no sense at all. I am a huge HP fan, I have loved the actors, acting, movie of past - but this one has to be the worst in keeping with the book. I was so excited, waited for the midnight premiere and then left wanting to cry! They messed up so much of this movie that I'm afraid to think of what is going to happen in the next TWO movies. It was a favorite of many for a reason, why screw that up? Expand
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3
jamescJul 16, 2009
This was a very slow, plodding and rather uneventful movie. I'm utterly shocked at all the positive reviews. Other movies in this series were much better, but it seems the movie makers are simply stringing things out as much as they can This was a very slow, plodding and rather uneventful movie. I'm utterly shocked at all the positive reviews. Other movies in this series were much better, but it seems the movie makers are simply stringing things out as much as they can to reap the $$$ from the throngs of fans who'll see just about any Potter film regardless of the quality. My daughter, who is a fan of the movie was quite disappointed with it, as were several very vocal attendees at our showing. As they left the theatre, several people looked at each other and asked, how they liked it. There was a uniform chorus of "that sucked didn't it?" Noit much actually happens in the film. There's more than enough teen angst and broken heartedness amongst the key characters to create a movie just on that storyline alone. The younger Malfoy has turned from a sinister child into a gawky, brooding, troubled, lankey Andy Warholesque character. He just broods and hides around Hogwarts and makes endless trips to the transporter booth, testing it out. The whole plot of this film is unbelievable and inconsistent in the context of the other Potter films. And the final climactic battle, if it can even be called that, is such a letdown, given what is in the book, it's hard to whether the film makers read the book or even cared to try to make the ending exciting. A real disappointment overall. Expand
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4
NeilSJul 16, 2009
Nearly totally ignored the main storyline of the book which was the conversations bewteen Harry and Dumbledore involving the memories. Spent the majority of time with the budding romances, which I don't have a problem with, but I think Nearly totally ignored the main storyline of the book which was the conversations bewteen Harry and Dumbledore involving the memories. Spent the majority of time with the budding romances, which I don't have a problem with, but I think the director could have spent his two hours and twenty minutes focusing on the more important elements. Really annoyed by the end. Expand
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8
ChloeG.Jul 16, 2009
I really enjoyed this movie. The acting was great. Although I understand that it is an adaption and should not be exactly the same as the books, I felt that some elements that should have been included, such as the final fight scene, Harry I really enjoyed this movie. The acting was great. Although I understand that it is an adaption and should not be exactly the same as the books, I felt that some elements that should have been included, such as the final fight scene, Harry being immobalied at Dumbledores death, and several other small things were not there. Also, the burning of the Weasly house was not in the book at all. I feel that instead of that scene, Yates and the screenwriter should have added a few more elements from the book. Overall though, a fantastic movie; my favorite since the third movie. Expand
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3
JackWJul 16, 2009
Very disappointing. Yates should not be the next director....bring back Columbus. Yates left out the final fight scene, Harry immobilized by Dumbledore (hard to believe Harry would just stand there while they kill Dumbledore, but then runs Very disappointing. Yates should not be the next director....bring back Columbus. Yates left out the final fight scene, Harry immobilized by Dumbledore (hard to believe Harry would just stand there while they kill Dumbledore, but then runs after them....bad screenplay). No indepth study of Voldemort's past.....way too much teen romance and not enough of the substance of the main plot. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MikeRJul 16, 2009
I loved this new installment. I saw the movies devotion to the often bleak mood of the book through its enthralling cinimatography and set decoration. As a resonalble fan of the story, that's all that mattered to me in the end. In other I loved this new installment. I saw the movies devotion to the often bleak mood of the book through its enthralling cinimatography and set decoration. As a resonalble fan of the story, that's all that mattered to me in the end. In other news Radcliffe is getting better, Jim Broadbent was fantastic, and Alan Rickman is cool as always. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DaveUJul 16, 2009
Its good, but the HP movies are having a much more difficult time capturing the magic of the books and transferring them to the screen. This movie has some great moments, but it struggles with balancing those moments with the teen angst and Its good, but the HP movies are having a much more difficult time capturing the magic of the books and transferring them to the screen. This movie has some great moments, but it struggles with balancing those moments with the teen angst and development of the relationships that follow through in the Deathly Hallows. If you are an HP fan, you have to see it. I think HP 7 and 8 will be much better movies. This seems more like the calm before the storm, but my complaints are relatively minor, everything being considered. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
ChristinaMJul 16, 2009
The acting was good. The writing was horrible!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
AnnWJul 16, 2009
I am a huge HP fan and had just re-read the book the night before I went to the movie. I was hugely disapointed and was ready to walk out of the theatre after the first scene. The movie only got worse as I watched it. The important missing I am a huge HP fan and had just re-read the book the night before I went to the movie. I was hugely disapointed and was ready to walk out of the theatre after the first scene. The movie only got worse as I watched it. The important missing information and invented scenes really ruined this movie for me. I have all the books, the audio and the movies and have not sure if I want this one in my collection as it is such a hack job. I am disapointed in Warner Brothers. Expand
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9
SheldonWJul 16, 2009
The balance between the grand and the subtle; the humour and the drama; the discovery of new depths of character in the most unexpected places [unless, of course, you've read the books] - all these things combine to form a film that is, The balance between the grand and the subtle; the humour and the drama; the discovery of new depths of character in the most unexpected places [unless, of course, you've read the books] - all these things combine to form a film that is, but for Alfonso Curaon's darkly brilliant Prisoner of Azkaban, the best Harry Potter film thus far. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MackenzieMJul 16, 2009
I am totally addicted to Harry Potter. I know like every word to all of the movies and now I have another one to remember. Its awesome!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MiguelT.Jul 16, 2009
So far, the best movie in the Harry Potter series. The story runs at a good pace, the actors give exceptional performances and the visual effects are awesome. It's very entertaining and the "dark" look of the film is great.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JasonKJul 16, 2009
Excellent movie overall. Some odd omissions from the book were a bit confusing. The cast was great, and the Inferi Cavern was awesome.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JohnTJul 16, 2009
This was not the best one I've seen. To be honest, my favorite still remains the third one. But it was by no means a bad one. The good actors, like Alan Rickman, return with stirring new performances, and the scene where (spoiler!) This was not the best one I've seen. To be honest, my favorite still remains the third one. But it was by no means a bad one. The good actors, like Alan Rickman, return with stirring new performances, and the scene where (spoiler!) Dumbledore dies generates much more emotion than the book did. Quite a few people are giving it bad reviews because it wasn't that true to the book. That's because this isn't a movie adaptation, this is a film based off a book. The writers and directors took creative freedom rather than adhere strictly to the book (which the first two movies were actually berated for). Many people went to see that movie expecting it to be exactly like the book. Myself and many others went in expecting to see a movie. With this one, don't expect, just watch and enjoy what it has to offer (a mature, dark plot, quirky verbal, physical, and romantic humor, and a sobering ending). My main problem is the burning down of the Weasley home. It was meant to make us realize the danger present, and that would have been a good idea, had that event actually been alluded to later on in the film rather than just completely forgotten about. While by no means does this book achieve the status of Jackson's legendary Lord of the Rings movies, which in my opinion are some of the best movie adaptations I have ever seen, this film is enjoyable and should be seen in the theaters, where films always have the most power. Expand
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7
DuaneW.Jul 16, 2009
The screenplay is drastically different from the book and it's not an improvement. The made-for-movie fight scene at the end of the book was eliminated! Harry is walking free as he watches Dumbledore meet his fate and Harry does The screenplay is drastically different from the book and it's not an improvement. The made-for-movie fight scene at the end of the book was eliminated! Harry is walking free as he watches Dumbledore meet his fate and Harry does nothing! Rowling knew that could not have happened; so she had Harry immobilized until Dumbledore died and then Harry immediately entered the battle. What was the screenwriter thinking when he eliminated this? The movie also introduces scenes that do not happen in the book. I was not pleased. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
BobB.Jul 16, 2009
I have to say I was really looking forward to this movie and was rather disappointed. The humor scenes were good but more than half a dozen other scenes were so flat that I couldn't help wondering if they had been filmed only once with I have to say I was really looking forward to this movie and was rather disappointed. The humor scenes were good but more than half a dozen other scenes were so flat that I couldn't help wondering if they had been filmed only once with no thought to getting the scene right in an effort to save on film. Also there was no build up of suspense. Things just happened with no story flow. And then it ended. They need a new director for the final two movies. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
AshleyS.Jul 16, 2009
The movie was funny but it didn't feel like they were even at hogwarts it skipped around to much and not explaining stuff enough the director i guess though that everybody read the books which is stupid cause the only way you no what The movie was funny but it didn't feel like they were even at hogwarts it skipped around to much and not explaining stuff enough the director i guess though that everybody read the books which is stupid cause the only way you no what was going on was if you did my dad hasn't and he was confessed about stuff they should have explained better. The movie seemed just like telling about the Romance nothing else the end sucked in the book it talked about the whole school fighting the death eaters but in the movie harry cast like 2 spells at Snape it was stupid they should of had a big fighting scene like in the book it would have been a lot better. The 7th better be a lot better then this one this one has to be one of the worst. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
ElizabethBJul 16, 2009
I am a Harry Potter Fan. Read all the books but this movie fell below the expected standards. I get that they changed the air of the movie making it lose all of its charm and attractiveness to be dark and mysterious. However they just I am a Harry Potter Fan. Read all the books but this movie fell below the expected standards. I get that they changed the air of the movie making it lose all of its charm and attractiveness to be dark and mysterious. However they just skipped over all the key issues of the book. Didn't really explain the horixues, didn't show the tiara, no funeral, do bill and fleur, why the hell burn down the weasley hoouse?, no fight between death eaters and order of the phoneix just making the end boring and making harry look weak. I could of ignored all the differences in the screen but stop writing new crap and putting it in and just follow the book. The movies were made because of how good the book is so then why do the directors think they need to be changed so much. Just follow the book and you will have a hit. I don't know how they are going to figure out the horixues without being give any info especially the tiara. I did like the funny parts and the cave was good but thats it. Hopefully 7 is better because 6 really kinda sucked. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DavidJul 16, 2009
Very good movie, but jumped around a bit too much from one thing to another. Perhaps there was so much to try to fit in that there was not enough film time for more natural flow throughout the movie. I'm going to see it again, though, Very good movie, but jumped around a bit too much from one thing to another. Perhaps there was so much to try to fit in that there was not enough film time for more natural flow throughout the movie. I'm going to see it again, though, this time not at 12:01! Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AshleshKothariJul 16, 2009
Excellent movie. Spectacular effects.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JohnT.Jul 16, 2009
I really enjoyed this movie as a film not an adaption. If i reviewed this as a loyal adaption of the movie, i would have been scaving as i was frustrated with its differences to the book. But the film was funny, dark and kept you fixiated to I really enjoyed this movie as a film not an adaption. If i reviewed this as a loyal adaption of the movie, i would have been scaving as i was frustrated with its differences to the book. But the film was funny, dark and kept you fixiated to the screen. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
M.I.CHAB.Jul 16, 2009
The movie still makes the characters appear like juvenile kids. At the current age of the characters in the movie, you would expect them to be more mature that they are shown to be.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
WesKJul 16, 2009
Pacing was terrible. Radcliff can't act. Not enough explanation about anything that was going on for people who did not read the book. I explained a lot to my wife during the movie because it doesn't make too much sense if you Pacing was terrible. Radcliff can't act. Not enough explanation about anything that was going on for people who did not read the book. I explained a lot to my wife during the movie because it doesn't make too much sense if you haven't read the book. The ending was less than emotional. Sure, I heard about 3 people in the theater bawling but they were little teenagers that are so wrapped up in the book that they can't differentiate between. The book was emotionally jarring but the movie lacked the right kind of build up. At the end of the movie, I almost didn't care. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MarcosPJul 16, 2009
It's is very different from the book, but is the best movie ever. The only thing missed was the information about the other Horcruxes.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
GuillermoM.Jul 16, 2009
The greatest disappointment David Yates had the best book of the series and he made the worst movie of the saga.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JamesCaleyJul 16, 2009
This film was wonderful. It captured the mixed tonality of the book perfectly. The younger actors are all growing and the more experienced ones continue to shine. The humor worked every time. The effects where spectacular. All around, a filmThis film was wonderful. It captured the mixed tonality of the book perfectly. The younger actors are all growing and the more experienced ones continue to shine. The humor worked every time. The effects where spectacular. All around, a film worthy of calling itself part of the Harry Potter universe. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
LuisGJul 16, 2009
"Harry Potter and the half blood prince " titled after and based on the book by JK Rowling is far detached from the book- for one we never get full mention of who that prince might be until the films slow and uneventful cliffanger finale . "Harry Potter and the half blood prince " titled after and based on the book by JK Rowling is far detached from the book- for one we never get full mention of who that prince might be until the films slow and uneventful cliffanger finale . Pleanty of back and forth kid romancing and occasional chuckles. Half Blood Prince not only strays away from its title but also never really sees true splendor like its previous installments the drama is there yet a reluntant one. Its true treasure is the cast who have grown and inbodied thier characters. Lets hope the next two films learn from thier mistakes here. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
MattK.Jul 16, 2009
Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge HP fan. I just wasn't a fan of this particular movie. Parts of the story that were really moving, such as 'somebody's' funeral, should've been included. Also, the director Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge HP fan. I just wasn't a fan of this particular movie. Parts of the story that were really moving, such as 'somebody's' funeral, should've been included. Also, the director couldn't choose between a dark or a light teen-comedy film. I felt like the many Ron jokes were so out of place and flat that they just shouldn't of been included. I think I smiled once in this whole 2 1/2 movie, but I can't really remember because I walked out with a headache when it was all finished. All in all, it was a decent movie, but I don't think it was put together exceptionally well, according to all the hype. It was just OK. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DanielD.Jul 16, 2009
Excellent Adaptation!! Completely thrilling from beginning to end!! I can't wait for DH1 & 2!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
CarlosDJul 16, 2009
A decent argument can be made that this is the best installment of the film series. What David Yates lacks in subtlety he makes up for with a thrilling and spellbinding pace. He gets the feeling of reading the series exact right and the A decent argument can be made that this is the best installment of the film series. What David Yates lacks in subtlety he makes up for with a thrilling and spellbinding pace. He gets the feeling of reading the series exact right and the actors finally seem to have enough chops to make it work. My issues with the film stem only from some of Steve Kloves' adaptation decisions. The story focuses too much on Slughorn's memory and not enough on the search for the titular prince. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
RaymondR.Jul 16, 2009
As a film, it deserves a 7 out of 10, which I gave out. It has some witty and intense scenes, quickly followed by an uneven plot, which is barely even explained in the movie. As an adaptation on the other hand, it didn't do that well. As a film, it deserves a 7 out of 10, which I gave out. It has some witty and intense scenes, quickly followed by an uneven plot, which is barely even explained in the movie. As an adaptation on the other hand, it didn't do that well. People that hadn't read the book were totally lost, and wondering what people's motivations were throughout the whole book. You miss out on key scenes and character development, basically leaving the 6th installment ending the same as the 5th one (except for you know what). Malfoy's subplot was the most engaging aspect of the movie, as it lets you see his frustration and anger, something really well portrayed by the young actor. Overall, the film is entertaining, but far from perfection as others have posted. 7 out of 10 (film). 4 out of 10 as adaptation. But still, better than that insulting film about glowing vampires. Expand
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9
RossBJul 16, 2009
Fantastic , absolutely loved it. My favourite of the films so far, for afew reasons -1. there is no bad acting, as much as i love azkaban there are some terrible acting moments in that.....2.the cinemtagrophy is stunning.....3.funniest of Fantastic , absolutely loved it. My favourite of the films so far, for afew reasons -1. there is no bad acting, as much as i love azkaban there are some terrible acting moments in that.....2.the cinemtagrophy is stunning.....3.funniest of the films yet with a great script, ...and 4.most emotional by far, everyhing has much more weight and consequence....it may be building up to the really good stuff at the end, but man what a build up. Fantastic! Expand
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7
DallasSJul 16, 2009
The Good: The acting has improved in the younger cast members, and the older actors continue to shine. The romantic plotlines were done well and provided comic relief. The cinematography and musical score were excellent as usual. The Bad: The Good: The acting has improved in the younger cast members, and the older actors continue to shine. The romantic plotlines were done well and provided comic relief. The cinematography and musical score were excellent as usual. The Bad: Too many scenes from the book were omitted from the movie, many of which are crucial to the ongoing story. The Durseleys and Kreacher are completely left out. The appointment of Snape to his new post didn't feel nearly as shocking as it did in the book. The revelation of the Half-Blood Prince's true identity is reduced to little more than a throw-away line. The Bottom Line: If you're familiar with the books, you know that many of the events in HBP serve to set up even greater revelations in DH. I can't help but feel that this film didn't accomplish that feat. I'm left wondering how Harry will pursue his goal while not being given enough clues on the screen compared to what he was given on the page. If you're not familiar with the books, this film will probably seem a bit confusing to you as it hurries through some scenes and omits others. Still, what does survive the transition from page to screen is actually pretty enjoyable, which is why I gave it a rating of 7. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
KevinGJul 16, 2009
Woefully average.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MatthewRJul 16, 2009
There is no doubt to the fact that this film should have been absolutely terrible. It wasn't. It's beautifully artistic both visually and linguistcally and can still get the enjoyable funny laughs when it wants to. It never once There is no doubt to the fact that this film should have been absolutely terrible. It wasn't. It's beautifully artistic both visually and linguistcally and can still get the enjoyable funny laughs when it wants to. It never once during the movie did the producers seemed like they were 'overdoing' it. Small parts can sometimes seem boring and irrelavent, but completely worth your money to see. 90% *** Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
JamesC.Jul 16, 2009
Gutted! im a massive potter fan, i love the books and Half Blood Prince is my favourite book, i love the way it develops the relationship between harry and dumbledore whilst filling voldermorts backstory. all these happens amongst the teen Gutted! im a massive potter fan, i love the books and Half Blood Prince is my favourite book, i love the way it develops the relationship between harry and dumbledore whilst filling voldermorts backstory. all these happens amongst the teen angst and the back drop of voldermorts rise to power. The film achieves none of this! it bumbles around, from half baked story line to pointless new scene. i wont ruin it for those who havent seen it but voldermorts childhood and teen years are largely ignored, most of the main characters outside of harry, ron, hermione and dumbledore barely have a line. i wont even mention the rest of the pivital stuff this movie misses out, however how they have made a movie without the pivotal final scene where harry decides not to come back to hogwarts for his final year is beyond me. the romance between harry and ginny barely registers as happening... i mean they have totally butchered this tremendous book.... in fact i would sooner listen to the brilliant stephen frys audiobook than watch this hatchet job ever again. unfortunately David Yates is back directing both parts of the deathly hallows, so for me that means another hatchet job will be made on the excellent finale... oh how i want del toro to direct them over this useless yates idiot! Gutted! Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SamuelS.Jul 16, 2009
As someone who has read only the first 3 books, this is by far the most captivating installment in the series. Filled wth more laughs and more tears than any to HP movie to date, this masterpiece will not disappoint and -for the first time - As someone who has read only the first 3 books, this is by far the most captivating installment in the series. Filled wth more laughs and more tears than any to HP movie to date, this masterpiece will not disappoint and -for the first time - is a breathtaking watch for fans of the books and movies alike. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
5
AnonymousMCJul 15, 2009
I'll admit to not being a 'fan' of the series. Not that I didn't enjoy the first, what, 5 movies, in fact, I liked them better. Having not read any of the books may be starting to hurt my perception of the series, but II'll admit to not being a 'fan' of the series. Not that I didn't enjoy the first, what, 5 movies, in fact, I liked them better. Having not read any of the books may be starting to hurt my perception of the series, but I found this movie to be slow and always leading towards something that never comes to fruition, though I'm not quite sure what it is. I didn't not like this film, I just didn't seem to enjoy it as much as the fanboys in the audience with me. Expand
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9
BenjaminDJul 15, 2009
Definitely worth the two year wait. HBP wasn't my favorite of the Potter books but the translation to the screen was one of the best and most accurate in the series. The novel truly came to life. Though the novel and film aren't as Definitely worth the two year wait. HBP wasn't my favorite of the Potter books but the translation to the screen was one of the best and most accurate in the series. The novel truly came to life. Though the novel and film aren't as action packed as OOTP, Harry Potter 6 features some of the best acting to date in the series despite having one of the weaker stories in the series. Yes Half-Blood Prince is essentially a glorified set-up for Deathly Halllows, but Yates, Kloves and crew definitely deliver one of the best Potter adaptations to the screen. Expand
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6
AlmaraedaPJul 15, 2009
I am surprised that many fans consider this the best movie of the series; the first two were by far the most magnificent. While this movie did try to stay close to the book (quoting some scenes word for word), it was lacking very much in I am surprised that many fans consider this the best movie of the series; the first two were by far the most magnificent. While this movie did try to stay close to the book (quoting some scenes word for word), it was lacking very much in coherency and movement. No explanations or descriptions were ever given and, unless one had recently read HBP, the scenes often appeared unrealted and random. Also, there was WAY too much (awkward) silence. Silence is a good effect, but can be (and was) over used. Despite these flaws, the movie is still worth watching. Expand
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8
ChrisPJul 15, 2009
Absolutely brilliant. Maybe not quite Prisoner of Azkaban levels of brilliant, but brilliant nonetheless.
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9
AliciaAJul 15, 2009
Best movie yet. Missing some details, but what do you expect with a two and half hourish movie. I think it captures the feeling of the book much better than any of the previous ones. This felt more like a movie. Even though I knew what was Best movie yet. Missing some details, but what do you expect with a two and half hourish movie. I think it captures the feeling of the book much better than any of the previous ones. This felt more like a movie. Even though I knew what was going to happen, I still captured me. There are some clues to the next installment if you pay attention enough. Expand
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1
KenR.Jul 15, 2009
What is everybody smoking? This movie was horrible. Awful. It is easily the worst of the franchise. Gasps of "WHAT?" went up accross the theatre when the credits rolled. My entire family, Potter lovers all, hated this film. I toyed with the What is everybody smoking? This movie was horrible. Awful. It is easily the worst of the franchise. Gasps of "WHAT?" went up accross the theatre when the credits rolled. My entire family, Potter lovers all, hated this film. I toyed with the idea of demanding my money back, but hey it's not the theater owner's fault the film is such a crushing, pointless, listless bore. I'd advise you not to waste your entertainment dollar on this awful film - even when it comes out on DVD. Terrible, terrible stuff. Expand
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10
DavidC.Jul 15, 2009
Simply beautiful! I left completely in awe! Everything worked so well together, easily my favorite Potter movie now and I am a hard sell. A must see!
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6
JosephC.Jul 15, 2009
I was totally psyched for The Half Blood Prince when I first saw the trailers. However, after much anticipation and sitting through the 2 and a half hours, I must say I was not impressed. Settings and mood were set beautifully by the I was totally psyched for The Half Blood Prince when I first saw the trailers. However, after much anticipation and sitting through the 2 and a half hours, I must say I was not impressed. Settings and mood were set beautifully by the lighting and dark scenes, but the movie left me aching for more... yes folks, I must say this movie did not live up to my expectations. The storyline focused way too much on the skittish love lives of the teens, and much of the interesting and important parts of the plot are left out (example: Majority of Tom Riddle's past). The movie definitely did start out with a bang, but slowly fizzled out in the end. The climatic battle that I expected was non-existent, as the struggle between good and evil became a petty effort of vandalism of Hogwarts, highlighted only by the dramatic death of Dumbledore. However, I must admit, some scenes did make me chuckle, but for the 6th installment of the Harry Potter movie, I didn't want watch it for giggles, but wanted a dark, plot moving installment. Instead, I got teen love drama with the occasional escapades about some impending evil. Expand
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10
BobbyM.Jul 15, 2009
Amazing!!!! the best movie in the series since azkaban and one of the best of the year!! cant wait 4 deathly hallows!!
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3
JackS.Jul 15, 2009
Terrible acting, terrible attempts at dramatic pathos, terrible pacing, terrible exposition (and lack thereof!) terrible teen romance dialog. Any impact the sixth book has was dulled: my friends and I saw it at the midnight opening. One Terrible acting, terrible attempts at dramatic pathos, terrible pacing, terrible exposition (and lack thereof!) terrible teen romance dialog. Any impact the sixth book has was dulled: my friends and I saw it at the midnight opening. One third of us left greatly disappointed, one third left wondering what had happened, one third fell asleep. Expand
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9
JFJul 15, 2009
funny, thrilling, engaging, moving, strongly acted. so what if there is an occasional lull. so what if they could have cut out a scene or two. it's all pleasurable, and it's a great ride.
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10
GregW.Jul 15, 2009
Superb! Best Movie of the Year, Period!
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10
LauraLJul 15, 2009
I consider this movie the BEST of the BEST! It kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the whole film! I will most likely go see it 5 more times. It is a must see for all HP fans!
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6
G.S.Jul 15, 2009
Too flat! It completely missed out the build up that was so masterfully done in the book through the contrast between the seemingly unstoppable strengthening of the dark forces and the last happy moments of the "becoming of age" period at Too flat! It completely missed out the build up that was so masterfully done in the book through the contrast between the seemingly unstoppable strengthening of the dark forces and the last happy moments of the "becoming of age" period at Hogwarts. Also, the relationship between Harry and Dumbledore (one of the key "engines" in the book) is left unexplored. Consequently, the end which is supposed to throw you of the chair simply Expand
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9
AndyM.Jul 15, 2009
IT WAS AMAZING. I saw the midnight showing, and it was crazy. If you're a HP fan, this could easily be the best movie. SEE IT.
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6
KeelanTJul 15, 2009
Did not live up to expectations. Although I was happy with the route that the series is taking, with the darker and more adult feel, I felt that the movie lacked pacing, and the transition from book to screen wasn't particularly a good Did not live up to expectations. Although I was happy with the route that the series is taking, with the darker and more adult feel, I felt that the movie lacked pacing, and the transition from book to screen wasn't particularly a good one. HP6 (the book) contains a lot of description which did not translate well onto screen, and because of this, I found myself explaining a lot that was happening to my friends who had seen the previous movies, but had not read the book. I will say however, that the ending was particularly well done, and was almost exactly how I imagined it. The film was 2 and a half hours long, with the first two hours being mediocre at best, but with some genuinely funny scenes. Expand
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5
TonyLJul 15, 2009
The noir-ish look of the film was a bit overpowering, but it and the effects alone make up for the sluggish plot.
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9
RobRJul 15, 2009
Best Harry Potter movie since the first, excellent. Should be a resounding success. We saw the show in a large screen stadium style seating theater (recommended). The theater was nearly filled to capacity for a ten AM showing, and we had Best Harry Potter movie since the first, excellent. Should be a resounding success. We saw the show in a large screen stadium style seating theater (recommended). The theater was nearly filled to capacity for a ten AM showing, and we had purchased our tickets in advance online (good idea). When showed up, 40 minutes early, the theater was already filling up. A great show, very entertaining and a lot of fun to see. Expand
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6
TobyHJul 15, 2009
I shall try and review this film as a film, not an adaptation. For me, there was only one problem with this picture, but it was a big one: the tone. How we are supposed to engage fully in a film that flits between danger and teen romance, it I shall try and review this film as a film, not an adaptation. For me, there was only one problem with this picture, but it was a big one: the tone. How we are supposed to engage fully in a film that flits between danger and teen romance, it seems, every scene? (this is no fault of the film's- it's only following the strangely uneven book) Oh, and, apart from Watson's Hermione, none of the child actors can act! Worst of all is Radcliffe, who still seems to think looking stern passes for emotion. However, the film was fun, and the 153 minutes felt more like 2 hours, passing extremely quickly. The pacing of the film was very good, with the scenes feeling fresh and unrushed. The visual effects were as good as the third film's, and Broadbent was excellent as the Potions teacher, Horace Slughorn. But the real standout was Draco Malfoy, as played by Tom Felton. His subplot felt engaging; dark and full of menace. A decent addition to the franchise! Expand
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10
AshleyEJul 15, 2009
Although the movies could never live up to the perfection of JK Rowling's Original creation, this movie is as close as you can get in an adaptation. Great Job!
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