
Goblet of Fire Media Reviews
Mercury Register
The adventures of Harry Potter are getting more complicated and wicked in this latest cinematic outing of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire."
Daniel Radcliffe and his pals Rupert Grint and Emma Watson continue their roles in the famous tale, but the Goblet of Fire' contains more evil characters and has the kids growing up and noticing the girls and boys.
Despite the fact the teens are getting physically older than their characters, they still manage to capture the vulnerability of 14-year-olds, who are still kids even though they think they are bigger than they are.
However, the PG-13 rating is well-deserved in this outing because the violence and sexual awakenings are too mature for the younger crowd.
No, this is not a movie filled with a lot of skin or making out, but Harry does find himself getting checked out by a female ghost in a bathtub. There also is formal party (Yule Ball) where the students of Hogwarts dance and mingle in grown-up clothing.
As for the dark moments, Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) makes a sinister appearance that is sure to scare most viewers, and real death raises its head in this film.
Fiennes' performance is unnerving at times as he confronts Harry, and rallies his allies. His appearance is much different from how he looks in other films, and I've heard reviewers say he is not recognizable here. That must be true because I did not recognize him.
That said, the movie still pits Harry as a force for good against the troops of darkness, and the hero does not back down.
The special effects are outstanding with all sorts of whimsical and nasty creatures and scenes coming to life on a regular basis.
Throughout it all, Harry strives forward with earnest determination and a hint of fear, which Radcliffe portrays perfectly.
His friends are equally into character with Grint continuing to make Ron Weasley a likable, but bumbling friend. And Watson keeps Hermoine Granger on track providing the caring and knowledge the character has shown in previous installments.
However, there is more focus on international competition in this film with characters from France, Russia, Asia and India showing up for play and study.
Harry's powers continue to grow as well, but he still remains uncertain of his abilities at times.
There are also plenty of funny scenes where the boys comment on the mysteries of girls and a new professor does some mischief with a less than likable student. Indeed, there were shots throughout that had the audience laughing and giggling.
In fact, this is the first time this reviewer has ever attended a packed house during the Friday matinee showing. There was hardly a seat to be found as patrons young and old sat fascinated with this film.
It obviously will be playing to filled houses at the Feather River Cinemas this weekend since the movie has been anticipated for some time.
While this movie is not suitable for the very young, most older children and young teens will love it.
If you are planning to visiting the theater, you should get the tickets early and get in line at least 45 minutes before show time because there will be a wait getting inside for this one.
I cannot say a lot more without giving away critical plot twists, so your best bet is to see the film and decide on your own how it stacks up with earlier versions.
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