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Joanne's Movie Reviews
"Harry Potter & the Sorcerer's Stone"
hosted by Joanne Spataro, Charlotte Observer Movie Critic
see our Reading & Creative Writing Group

Author J.K Rowling was involved in the film making process, assuring it stayed true to the book. This enchanting film will definitely satisfy its readers and fans of all ages.

Eleven-year-old Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) lives with his Aunt Petunia, Uncle Vernon, and his cousin, Dudley. Although his aunt and uncle fuss over spoiled Dudley, they begrudge and torment Harry. Aware of his supernatural family ties, they shield Harry from the real reason his parents died. Harry’s parents possessed magical powers, but met a tragic end at the hands of an evil wizard. Harry, a baby at the time, almost met the same demise. This experience left him with a lightning-bolt shaped scar on his forehead.

Harry is invited to study at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He learns more about his mystical past from the Hogwarts gamekeeper, Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane). At Hogwarts, Harry befriends brainy Hermione (Emma Watson) and playful Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint). He also meets the school’s colorful faculty, including stately Professor Dumbledore (Richard Harris) and suspicious Professor Snape (Alan Rickman). Harry’s adventure begins at Hogwarts.

I’ve read "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone" and was anxious to see the movie adaptation. "Stone" captures the whimsical essence of the book. Many of its details are still intact, including its rich dialogue and imaginative, visually spectacular settings. I was thrilled to see the majesty of the Hogwarts school come to life. The movie is a welcome escape, filled with fantasy and engaging characters.

The well-developed characters are superb. Radcliffe, perfectly cast as Harry Potter, gives depth to the boy wizard. Harry, as in the books, is the hero of the film. He’s courageous, moral, and kind. Hermione and Ron are also likable and have richly drawn personalities. Although Hagrid’s huge stature seems intimidating, he’s really gentle. Harris plays Dumbledore with warmth and authority.

Experience the magic of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone."

Comments

From: Kathy
I would like to thank Joanne for her movie review of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." The review was well written while presenting an accurate account of the movie. I am so tired of hearing people present a negative view of J.K. Rowling and her works of literature. I have read all four of the novels and have found them to be the caliber of C.S. Lewis works "The Chronicles of Narnia". Thank you again for your positive review.
Sincerely, Kathy
Madison,  Wisconsin

Harry Potter PC Computer Game - click here
(Great Christmas Gift!)

Video Movie Review:
"A Christmas Story" (1984)
by Joanne Spataro
Movie Critic, the Charlotte Observer
movie review
Based on the book by Jean Shepard titled ‘In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash’. Coincidentally, the movie’s narrator is the author himself, voicing an adult Ralphie Parker reflecting on a memorable Christmas. The story stars Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley), a 9 year old boy excited about Christmas. It’s such an entertaining movie that can easily be watched hundreds of times. So, if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, rent (or buy) A Christmas Story, which is sure to keep you laughing throughout this holiday season.Find out more about this Christmas classic.

Great Gift & Fundraising Idea
Brownies in a Jar Gift
Everyone loves brownies.  Brownies are the perfect gift and you'll love our Brownies in a Jar. All you need is a one quart jar that you can pick up at your local craft store.  Just take the ingredients for the Double Fudge Brownie Mix and fill the jar.  You can make the jar festive by using a colorful ribbon to tie on the recipe instructions along with a note from you.  Using a small piece of material you can also cover the lid of the jar add the ribbon and you have "wrapped" your gift!

Did Harry Potter
get you started reading?
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