H.P. And The Philosopher's Stone

[poliphilo]

It turns out to be rather well-constructed too. Up until about 7/8ths of the way through you think you're just getting a series of episodes, but then everything you've learned about people, places and things is pulled together in a thrilling denouement that works a lot better on the page than it does in the film. 

In the film Voldemort seems sort of tacked on. You''ve got this metaphysical terror lurking at the edges of what is basically a spiffing school adventure. In the book he's more integral. I think it's got something to do with pacing and the way- in CGI movies- story gets bowed down under the weight of the special effects. 

So I'm going to carry right on with The Chamber of Secrets. I'm warned I may start to feel Potter-fatigue in the course of this one, but that I need to keep going and the heaviness will lift.

Comments

[poliphilo.livejournal.com]

Well, I don't yet know what's to come, but in some ways I think CoS represents an advance. The writing is better and the plotting more confident.

PS is a joyous amateur performance. CoS is darker and fully professional.

Anyway, I'm going to be making a start on Prisoner of Azkaban tonight.

[four-thorns.livejournal.com]

i'll be looking forward to your thoughts on it. happy reading...