By Frederic Germay
NOT! This film took quite so many ‘creative liberties,’ it almost became an entirely new creation independent from the book. However, I think that all cinematic adaptations should be viewed as independent works of art. First of all, if one keeps cross-referencing the similarities and deviations between the source material and the movie – it takes the fun out of the experience. Plus, you have to bear in mind that there is simply no way to cram a 672 page book into a film, unless the film ends up lasting at least 15 hours long (never mind that some avid Harry Potter fans wouldn’t mind a 15 hour Harry Potter film, myself included). This means that a vast magnitude of enjoyable aspects of the book will inevitably have to be cut from the film. One also has to acknowledge that some plot aspects that work well on paper plainly cannot be transitioned to film to garner the same effect. Bearing all that in mind, I think that “Half-Blood Prince” was a successful feat.
Concerning the so-called creative liberties of the film, the Weasley house catching fire was one that struck me as a bit odd. I did recognize the dramatic effect that the scene successfully accomplished by adding that scene, but still it felt almost like a pointed slight towards the fans of the book. Of course, the irreconcilable book purists will find offense with any element that isn’t 100% faithful to the book, but omitting certain aspects of the book due to runtime issues or relevance is one thing – but inventing entirely new occurrences in the story gives off an air of nonchalance and indifference towards the many passionate readers. That being said, I do want to restate that I understand the purpose of these various additions, but it simply felt to me as though the screenwriters seemed to fancy themselves as the author of the series, proudly introducing new stories with cold indifference towards J.K. Rowlings and the viewing audience. Plus, it was criminal not include the Dursleys…
Despite all the new additions, there were certain things that very well deserved to be cut out of the film. For example, there was way too much teen romance. If the whole love triangle business was done properly, I wouldn’t be complaining – but particularly in the case of Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) and Ginny (Bonnie Wright), it didn’t feel even moderately convincing. In fact, the whole relationship felt very forced, whereas in the book the chemistry between the two is very palpable. Concerning all the teen angst, only Hermione (Emma Watson) is believable during her heartbroken rage against Ron (Rupert Grint). However, I will admit that I did enjoy that love potion sequence with Ron Weasley. Thankfully, the screenwriters did NOT omit that from the film.
As for the acting, the film reaches astounding highs and astonishing lows. As for Radcliffe, Grint, and Watson, the trio has improved considerably over the last few films – yet they continue to be outshone by the secondary characters. The various teachers and parents of the Wizarding world are portrayed by some of Britain’s most talented actors. It’s quite unfortunate that actors such as Robbie Coltrane, Helena Bonham Carter, and Maggie Smith weren’t rewarded with much screen time. The true trio of stars in this film far surpasses their more publicized younger co-stars – Cheers to Michael Gambon (Dumbledore), Alan Rickman (Snape), and Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy). They made this film very watchable. In spite of that ovation, my most sincere retch is aimed at to Bonnie Wright for delivering the most snore-worthy performance I’ve seen in quite some time. A mannequin would have been more convincing (and more interesting) as Ginny.
Ultimately, thanks to David Yates and Steve Kloves, Rowling’s arguably greatest book is brought to life in a highly satisfactory fashion. This is, in my opinion, the most well-put-together film of the series. The cinematography is breathtaking, the story is engaging, the action is intense, and the acting (for the most part) hits all the right keys. This film was a great success for me. Put aside your book purist obsession, and prepare to enjoy a beautifully made film. I give this movie an 8/10.
