Lumos Nox - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Lumos Nox - Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - The Boy Who Lived

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The Boy Who Lived
~
Doorstep Delivery

Analysis
Overall, the movie's presentation is pretty true to the book but it is watered down: this is a complaint that many purist/hardcore Harry Potter fans have with all of the films. It's understandable that Kloves (or whichever TPTB) decided to cut out Vernon's day because there is only so much a screenwriter modifying a book can fit into the new format. This movie is about Harry after all.
However, while some of the detours Rowling takes us on don't seem to be integral to the story, many do later turn out to be. The movie does accuarately include what we "need to know", but it omits so many of the rich details that Rowling prizes that the viewer does not get the depth of knowledge that the reader acquires while experiencing the book. For example, the first mention of Sirius Black (who turns out to be an important and favorite character of Rowling's) is gone. An uninitiated viewer (as i was the first time i watched this film) loses the character and emotional depth that permeates the books in the series. In later movies, plot twist and details can be missed or become downright confusing.
Fortunately, even though the opening scenes are short and to the point the essence of the characters is still here. The film's beginning is understandably shortened and quickly executed. The viewer doesn't feel cheated or rushed, just urged along. There's no way this could be as good as the original, but hopefully it will get more people to actually read the book: that's what happened to me.
Rowling starts with the normal and mundane Dursleys, reminding us of the roots and boundaries of our own world before she invites us to forget them entirely. Not only does she get the exposition out of the way in an interesting manner that captures one's interest and leaves them wanting more, but she introduces the reader to Harry with history that reveals who he really is (while in the next few chapters he, himself, does not have the same knowledge about what truly happened in his past). More than this, she enables to connect with Harry emotionally. He becomes our reality, and it is he who drives the story.
Dialogue and Character Changes Nitpicks Interesting Revelations...
The differences between McGonagall's conversations with Dumbledore are not blaringly obvious but they are present (mostly in rearrangement and omission). The viewer loses the sense of McGonagall's strength of character (how many people are patient enough to sit on a wall for an entire day?!?) as well as a sense of her full abilities. She is very young here compared to Dame Maggie Smith, whom is excellently cast but a great deal older than Rowling's perception of the character (which is mid-thirties when Harry begins attending Hogwarts, i believe). McGonagall has energy and a strong sense of what's wrong and right but Smith brings a vulnerability to the performance that is the side of the Deputy Headmistress that we don't see often. McGonagall is made of stern stuff, but she doesn't interrogate Dumbledore, she wants to be reassured / informed by him, and him alone.
Richard Harris and Robbie Coltrane are both nearly perfect as Dumbledore and Hagrid. Coltrane, for example, has taken a character that is important but not clearly defined and made him come alive. Harris' Dumbledore does have almost the full effect of the Headmaster's depth and power, but not his quirky or energetic moments. The true breadth of Dumbledore's abilities are not experienced fully with McGonagall's compliment left out ("Only because you're too--well--noble to use them." 11), nor the true importance of Harry's seclusion and normalcy; the insinuation of the burden Harry will have to bear is only hinted at as Dumbledore sets him down pronouncing: "Until he is ready."
Vernon sees McGonagall reading the street sign (and a map) on a Tuesday morning (not at night); relating to the discoveries of chapter five, did Voldemort attack the Potters on Monday night or early Tuesday morning? Which day was Halloween, and if Tuesday is Halloween then why would Vernon find costumed people standing about extremely odd? How long was it after the house's destruction that Harry was delivered to the Dursleys?
Dumbledore walks out of fog instead of appearing out of thin air. In the book he notices McGonagall before he uses the Put-Outer, which he clicks twelve times (not five).
McGonagall is sitting on a curb down the street instead of on the Dursley's garden wall. There is no indication in the book that any sound is created when an Animagus' form is shifting. She is supposed to have square spectacles, not round ones; her Animagus form is supposed to have similar markings around the eyes.
Where are the lemon drops?
Hagrid is the one who told McGonagall where to go, but not that he would be bringing Harry (foreshadows that it's easy to wheedle info from him, at any rate).
Where Hagrid got Harry and the motorcycle (Sirius) isn't mentioned.
Voldemort isn't mentioned.
Harry's scar isn't mentioned.
McGonagall can read while she is a cat, so an Animagus obviously doesn't lose their human mental faculties when in their animal form. The fact that Rowling depicts this ability so early in the series subtly belies its importance for future characters.
Yelling at people apparently puts Vernon in a good mood.
Vernon notes the distinctive markings around the cat's eyes; McGonagall gives him stern look (lol).
The movie doesn't actually begin until page 8.
Dumbledore appears on the corner silently and suddenly... as if he "popped out of the ground." He "passed" feasts and parties on his way to Privet Drive.
The war with Voldemort has lasted for eleven years. Dumbledore tries to persuade McGonagall to call him by his "proper name" (11)
Madam Pomfrey complimented Dumbledore on his earmuffs. Why was he cold underneath all his hair?
Hagrid's lack of reliability (and the stain upon his reputation) is alluded to immedietely.
The flying motorcycle Hagrid uses belongs to Sirius Black.
Muggles live in Godric's Hollow (or very nearby)... Can they see the house after it's been destroyed/is the Fidelius still in effect?
Quality Quill Quotes On the Telly

"Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much. They were the last people you'd expect to be involved in anything strange or mysterious, because they just didn't hold with such nonsense."
~ narrator (1)

"Don't be sorry, my dear sir, for nothing could upset me today! Rejoice, for You-Know-Who has gone at last! Even Muggles like yourself should be celebrating, this happy, happy, day!"
~ And the old man hugged Mr. Dursley around the middle and walked off. (5)

"A breeze ruffled the neat hedges of Privet Drive, which lay silent and tidy under the inky sky, the very last place you would expect astonishing things to happen."
~ narrator (17)

Lightning Love
This chapter could be seen as symbolic of man's relationship with God. When Mr. Dursley saw wizards conversing they made him feel uneasy. Even when one said that he should be happy too, he looked down his nose at them and rejected them outright. He didn't even know why they were happy, but he didn't care because they were dressed funny and that was enough for him to dislike them.
In the same way the Dursleys are the sort of people who would shut out God in the way He wants to be received, just as they shut all the magical world because they cannot control it. God is all around us, rejoicing because there is a way for us to be with Him, and we can rejoice too... if we will accept Jesus' free gift.
Many non-Christians are uncomfortable and feel alienated when they see Christians displaying the love and joy that God has given them. They might not even realize why they feel angry and uncomfortable. But like the Dursleys, too many are willing to be content with their lives the way they are--indeed, prefer them the way they are--instead of turning over complete control to the Author of the universe. They would rather try to do things their own way, denying the truth as long as possible, then trust the One who already sees their story completed.
Fortunately not everyone is this way, and i'm sure that many don't want or mean to be Dursleyish about their relationship with God. Such behaviors are not incurable. Denial of a need, the perception of hopeless separation, and lack of desire to change are all common lies that Satan and his minions use to keep the lost sinner from seeking Christ. Be assured that God is seeking each unsaved individual: He has provided the Way to Himself and everyone is encouraged to come just as they are. When the need is met the separation is banished and the changing comes in His perfect timing.
Harry Potter
and the Sorcerer's Stone « » the Vanishing Glass

daniel radcliffe * rupert grint * emma watson

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Harry Potter and all related characters and elements are the property of
J.K. Rowling, Scholastic, and Warner Bros.
All illustrations and images are the property of Mary GrandPré and Warner Bros. respectively.
This page is meant in no way to abuse said sources or gain profit, but to endorse and support said artistic works.

updated 04 * 10 * 07

Analysis
Overall, the movie's presentation is pretty true to the book but it is watered down: this is a complaint that many purist/hardcore Harry Potter fans have with all of the films. It's understandable that Kloves (or whichever TPTB) decided to cut out Vernon's day because there is only so much a screenwriter modifying a book can fit into the new format. This movie is about Harry after all. However, while some of the detours Rowling takes us on don't seem to be integral to the story, many do later turn out to be. The movie does accuarately include what we "need to know", but it omits so many of the rich details that Rowling prizes that the viewer does not get the depth of knowledge that the reader acquires while experiencing the book. For example, the first mention of Sirius Black (who turns out to be an important and favorite character of Rowling's) is gone. An uninitiated viewer (as i was the first time i watched this film) loses the character and emotional depth that permeates the books in the series. In later movies, plot twist and details can be missed or become downright confusing. Fortunately, even though the opening scenes are short and to the point the essence of the characters is still here. The film's beginning is understandably shortened and quickly executed. The viewer doesn't feel cheated or rushed, just urged along. There's no way this could be as good as the original, but hopefully it will get more people to actually read the book: that's what happened to me. Rowling starts with the normal and mundane Dursleys, reminding us of the roots and boundaries of our own world before she invites us to forget them entirely. Not only does she get the exposition out of the way in an interesting manner that captures one's interest and leaves them wanting more, but she introduces the reader to Harry with history that reveals who he really is (while in the next few chapters he, himself, does not have the same knowledge about what truly happened in his past). More than this, she enables to connect with Harry emotionally. He becomes our reality, and it is he who drives the story.
Dialogue and Character Changes	Nitpicks	Interesting Revelations...
The differences between McGonagall's conversations with Dumbledore are not blaringly obvious but they are present (mostly in rearrangement and omission). The viewer loses the sense of McGonagall's strength of character (how many people are patient enough to sit on a wall for an entire day?!?) as well as a sense of her full abilities. She is very young here compared to Dame Maggie Smith, whom is excellently cast but a great deal older than Rowling's perception of the character (which is mid-thirties when Harry begins attending Hogwarts, i believe). McGonagall has energy and a strong sense of what's wrong and right but Smith brings a vulnerability to the performance that is the side of the Deputy Headmistress that we don't see often. McGonagall is made of stern stuff, but she doesn't interrogate Dumbledore, she wants to be reassured / informed by him, and him alone. Richard Harris and Robbie Coltrane are both nearly perfect as Dumbledore and Hagrid. Coltrane, for example, has taken a character that is important but not clearly defined and made him come alive. Harris' Dumbledore does have almost the full effect of the Headmaster's depth and power, but not his quirky or energetic moments. The true breadth of Dumbledore's abilities are not experienced fully with McGonagall's compliment left out ("Only because you're too--well--noble to use them." 11), nor the true importance of Harry's seclusion and normalcy; the insinuation of the burden Harry will have to bear is only hinted at as Dumbledore sets him down pronouncing: "Until he is ready."	Vernon sees McGonagall reading the street sign (and a map) on a Tuesday morning (not at night); relating to the discoveries of chapter five, did Voldemort attack the Potters on Monday night or early Tuesday morning? Which day was Halloween, and if Tuesday is Halloween then why would Vernon find costumed people standing about extremely odd? How long was it after the house's destruction that Harry was delivered to the Dursleys? Dumbledore walks out of fog instead of appearing out of thin air. In the book he notices McGonagall before he uses the Put-Outer, which he clicks twelve times (not five). McGonagall is sitting on a curb down the street instead of on the Dursley's garden wall. There is no indication in the book that any sound is created when an Animagus' form is shifting. She is supposed to have square spectacles, not round ones; her Animagus form is supposed to have similar markings around the eyes. Where are the lemon drops? Hagrid is the one who told McGonagall where to go, but not that he would be bringing Harry (foreshadows that it's easy to wheedle info from him, at any rate). Where Hagrid got Harry and the motorcycle (Sirius) isn't mentioned. Voldemort isn't mentioned. Harry's scar isn't mentioned.	McGonagall can read while she is a cat, so an Animagus obviously doesn't lose their human mental faculties when in their animal form. The fact that Rowling depicts this ability so early in the series subtly belies its importance for future characters. Yelling at people apparently puts Vernon in a good mood. Vernon notes the distinctive markings around the cat's eyes; McGonagall gives him stern look (lol). The movie doesn't actually begin until page 8. Dumbledore appears on the corner silently and suddenly... as if he "popped out of the ground." He "passed" feasts and parties on his way to Privet Drive. The war with Voldemort has lasted for eleven years. Dumbledore tries to persuade McGonagall to call him by his "proper name" (11) Madam Pomfrey complimented Dumbledore on his earmuffs. Why was he cold underneath all his hair? Hagrid's lack of reliability (and the stain upon his reputation) is alluded to immedietely. The flying motorcycle Hagrid uses belongs to Sirius Black. Muggles live in Godric's Hollow (or very nearby)... Can they see the house after it's been destroyed/is the Fidelius still in effect?
Quality Quill Quotes	On the Telly
"Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much. They were the last people you'd expect to be involved in anything strange or mysterious, because they just didn't hold with such nonsense." ~ narrator (1) "Don't be sorry, my dear sir, for nothing could upset me today! Rejoice, for You-Know-Who has gone at last! Even Muggles like yourself should be celebrating, this happy, happy, day!" ~ And the old man hugged Mr. Dursley around the middle and walked off. (5) "A breeze ruffled the neat hedges of Privet Drive, which lay silent and tidy under the inky sky, the very last place you would expect astonishing things to happen." ~ narrator (17)
Lightning Love
This chapter could be seen as symbolic of man's relationship with God. When Mr. Dursley saw wizards conversing they made him feel uneasy. Even when one said that he should be happy too, he looked down his nose at them and rejected them outright. He didn't even know why they were happy, but he didn't care because they were dressed funny and that was enough for him to dislike them. In the same way the Dursleys are the sort of people who would shut out God in the way He wants to be received, just as they shut all the magical world because they cannot control it. God is all around us, rejoicing because there is a way for us to be with Him, and we can rejoice too... if we will accept Jesus' free gift. Many non-Christians are uncomfortable and feel alienated when they see Christians displaying the love and joy that God has given them. They might not even realize why they feel angry and uncomfortable. But like the Dursleys, too many are willing to be content with their lives the way they are--indeed, prefer them the way they are--instead of turning over complete control to the Author of the universe. They would rather try to do things their own way, denying the truth as long as possible, then trust the One who already sees their story completed. Fortunately not everyone is this way, and i'm sure that many don't want or mean to be Dursleyish about their relationship with God. Such behaviors are not incurable. Denial of a need, the perception of hopeless separation, and lack of desire to change are all common lies that Satan and his minions use to keep the lost sinner from seeking Christ. Be assured that God is seeking each unsaved individual: He has provided the Way to Himself and everyone is encouraged to come just as they are. When the need is met the separation is banished and the changing comes in His perfect timing.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone	« »	the Vanishing Glass