Here's an event movie that holds up to being an event. This filmed
version of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, adapted from the
wildly popular book by J.K. Rowling, stunningly brings to life Harry
Potter's world of Hogwarts, the school for young witches and wizards.
The greatest strength of the film comes from its faithfulness to
the novel, and this new cinematic world is filled with all the details
of Rowling's imagination, thanks to exuberant sets, elaborate costumes,
clever makeup and visual effects, and a crème de la crème
cast, including Maggie Smith, Richard Harris, Alan Rickman, and
more. Especially fine is the interplay between Harry (Daniel Radcliffe)
and his schoolmates Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson),
as well as his protector, the looming Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane).
The second-half adventure--involving the titular sorcerer's stone--doesn't
translate perfectly from page to screen, ultimately because of the
film's fidelity to the novel; this is a case of making a movie for
the book's fans, as opposed to a transcending film. Writer Steve
Kloves and director Chris Columbus keep the spooks in check, making
this a true family film, and with its resourceful hero wide-eyed
and ready, one can't wait for Harry's return. Ages 8 and up. --
Doug Thomas