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A still from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire |
Dir: Mike Newell
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Ralph Fiennes
Plot: After discovering the magical Philosopher's Stone, unravelling the Chamber of Secrets and rescuing the prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter now has to deal with the Goblet of Fire. If you can distinguish a Muggle from a half-blood, you already know the story J K Rowling has scripted for her fourth installment.
For those not yet hit by Pottermania, Goblet of Fire weaves a tale darker than any of its predecessors. Lord Voldemort has returned and has vowed to put an end to Harry Potter.
Set against the backdrop of the spectacular Triwizard Tournament, fourth year at Hogwarts puts the young wizard in situations where Harry not only has to deal with his greatest fear, but also experience heartbreak and go through the crisis every average teenager faces — except that Potter is no average teenager.
Acting: Daniel Radcliffe, who plays Harry, is no longer a kid. Not only does he look taller and leaner, but his voice and body language have also changed. Emma Watson (Hermione) and Rupert Grint (Ron), too show remarkable change as adolescence sets in.
While Watson has transformed herself into a teenage pin-up queen, Rupert succeeds in looking goofy and charming at the same time. The trio have mastered the art of sinking into the skin of their characters and never disappoint in living up to the book.
Brendan Gleeson, as Mad-Eye Moody, is fabulous — one character that will not only entertain you, but also spin you around with a surprise climax towards the end. Miranda Richardson, who plays the I'll-do-anything-for-a-scoop reporter, Rita Skeeter, and Robert Pattinson as Cedric Diggory, portray their parts roles with efficiency.
What's hot: It would be impossible not to expect mind-numbing special effects from a Potter film. But the Goblet of Fire not only stupefies you with its cinematography, but also casts a spell using visual excellence to portray scenes like the Quidditch World Cup, and the dragon and Mer-people tasks. Also done with finesse is the mysterious maze that holds the Triwizard trophy.
There's loads of romance, with Harry's secret crush on Cho Chang (Katie Leung), and Hermione's ballroom dance with Viktor Krum (Stansilav Ianevski). Watch out for the hilarious scene where Ron has to show off his dancing skills with none other than Profesor McGonagall (Maggie Smith).
What's not: There isn't much to complain here, except for the fact that Dumbeldore (Michael Gambon) seems a bit loud and over the top in a few scenes. But you can't blame the wise wizard; he is not only dealing with the return of the Dark Lord, but also has to ensure the safety of every participant in the tournament. Overall, the film gives out a dark vibe, and has an ample amount of gore, especially in the climax.
Bottom line: The best of the four movies, and will be an instant smash hit all over the world. Not only will it thrill hardcore Potter fans, but also win over an entire new audience who still haven't been captivated by the magical stories. Go, Harry!
Enjoy.......😊
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