Post by CMF Newsman on Jul 23, 2009 10:23:04 GMT -5
Imagine how difficult it would be to turn an almost universally loved novel, clocking in at 652 pages, into a single feature film. It’s a package deal—fans will see an elaborate film adaption if it is made. There are two options for the filmmaker: Churn out a mediocre film and reap the monetary benefits or make a quality film and, of course, still reap those guaranteed monetary benefits.
I honestly believe that the creative team behind each film adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels has chosen option two. Only the best British character actors sign on for adult roles, and there are never any shortcuts taken in making Harry Potter’s world eye-poppingly real. There have been some notable directors in the mix, too, Alfonso Cuarón (Children of Men, HP and the Prisoner of Azkaban) being the best among them.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the story of Harry’s sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and the year begins with a stern warning from headmaster Dumbledore: Hogwarts isn’t the safe place it once was and any student could easily be taken in by the Dark Lord, Voldemort (a terrifying Ralph Fiennes, sadly not seen in this installment).
Forces of evil have been emboldened by Voldemort’s return and Harry Potter, rumored to be “The Chosen One” to destroy the dark wizard, must prepare himself and learn as much as possible about Voldemort’s past. David Yates directs. He’s been doing serialized television for the BBC for 20 years and has proved very good at it, making me wonder if it has ever crossed his mind how Harry Potter might look if the novels were adapted serially instead of in one fell cinematic swoop.
More at chattanoogapulse.com/film/film-feature/film-feature-wizardry-and-a-couple-of-brothers-bloom/