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March 3, 2009
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
Should I see it?
Yes.


Short Review: I was expecting to wanting to see this renamed Harry Potter and the Chamber Pot of Secrets but it turned out to be a very good movie.


As the follow up to the wildly popular Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone, this film advances the series with ease. In many cases, this film is superior to the first. The characterizations are fuller and the plot is far more verbose. This mostly is due to the fact that the first film did such a solid job of defining the basics of the world Harry Potter that this film doesn’t have to spend a bulk of time explaining itself. It has the freedom to move around. Once again the casting of the film combined with some of the best design work in recent memory (with the possible exception of Lord of The Rings,) makes this film a must see. Yes, the story is juvenile and the mystery at the heart of the plot isn’t compelling (although the “Parsel-tongue” gimmick is interesting.) This made for kids, what do you want? The quality of the production will made me want to forgive these mild weakness.

Daniel Radcliffe is out front once again playing Harry Potter. His geeky quality is still intact and he performs well both as the troubled kid under his evil uncle’s thumb and as the star of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft. Radcliffe and his companions Rupert Grint and Emma Watson all replicate the strong work they gave in Sorcerer’s Stone. As the script is able to express with more depth because this is a sequel, these young actors are more comfortable in their roles as well. The interactions between the actors are more casual than in the first film. Two of the best differences between this film and the first film is the introduction of Kenneth Brauguah and Jason Issacs into the series. Brauguah shines as Professor Gilderoy Lockhart, the new teacher of Protection From The Black Arts. Brauguah makes hay out of this plumb role as he portrays a polished media creation of a man. Branaugh dives into the role with an obvious glee and delivers some of the film’s best moments. Equally impressive is Jason Issacs playing the seething Lucius Malfoy. Issacs is at his best when playing intelligent and sneering villains. This role is perfect for him.

Overall, this production is a worthy successor of the series and the billion-dollar empire it supports. While there are some issues regarding paganism and magic that may trouble many Christians, I found this film to be good fun and pushing solid morals. I tend to part with those Christians who scorn this series because of the magical elements. I don’t feel they are overwhelming and shouldn’t cause much concern. With Chamber of Secrets we have a well-built and sharp-minded film that entertains both young and old.


Related Reviews:
Harry Potter & The Sorcerer's Stone (2001)
Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire (2005)


Other Critic's Reviews:
Chicago Tribune
Beyond Hollywood





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