Review: 'Deathly Hallows' is a treat for the senses, but story disappoints

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (U/A)
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
Director: David Yates
Rating:***

Deathly Hallows is a good deal grislier with darker emotions surfacing between old friends and with the murderous goings-on that are masterminded by the resurrected lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) and his trusty henchmen.

While the world of wizards is smacked out of denial, paranoia and witch-hunts take its place with the Gilliamesque ministry of magic taking a totalitarian turn by ruthlessly closing in on all perceived threats, Potter included.

Harry (Radcliffe), Ron (Grint) and Hermione (Watson) embark upon a mission to hunt down horcruxes, objects of dark magic used to sustain Voldemort’s existence, after isolating themselves from the ones they love in order to ensure their safety.

While much has been said about how the film’s tone is darker with the kids out of school and out on the road all alone, what sets it apart is its visual and aural beauty since its narrative is, unfortunately, as diluted as the previous instalments.

One might question the motives of the filmmakers for singling out the last book to be released into two adaptations. The Goblet of Fire contained far more details that were whittled away to make a single film. And, even with the narrative spanning two films, this one still manages not to contain several finer details and little embellishments that are so ubiquitous in Rowling’s text.

The film doesn’t spare a thought for neophytes and starts with a headlong rush back into the plot. The supporting cast, some of the United Kingdom’s finest actors, have comparatively less screen time compared to the trio (now we know how Ron feels about living in Harry’s shadow) and there are certain scenes which lack the gravity visualised while reading the book. 

If you are new to Pottermania, or have been experiencing Rowling’s universe through the films, this one won’t hold much for you aside from Eduardo Serra’s arresting visuals and Alexander Desplat’s stunning score (and mature performances from Radcliffe, Grint and Watson).

In that sense, Deathly Hallows is a great accompaniment to the book, but, in terms of storytelling, it is merely a passable adaptation.