Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)

User Review

• 

  Barneyonmovies

  7 / 10

  WHAT I LIKED: 'Chamber of Secrets,' begins the inevitable descent into darkness of the Harry Potter series. Unlike the forced dramatic stakes in the obstacle-course adventures of the first film, here things really feels as though Harry and his friends are in constant danger. An ominous set of circumstances make it difficult for he and Ron to arrive at Hogwarts, and all the time they're there a dark secret about the school slowly reveals itself and comes to a head at the end. Along with that, a genuine thematic element is introduced too thanks to a central thread about prejudice against "mud-bloods," (Wizards born to non-magic parents). That all means the characters are tested in more authentic ways, and the young stars all rise to the challenge very well.
  
  On top of that though, Chris Columbus never loses his charming focus on the wonder of the surrounding world either. Chunks of time are still spent with side characters, in the classroom or on the quidditch pitch, and where that came across as tangential before, here those things feel like welcome restbites for the characters given the danger they're seemingly in. There's great warmth to be felt seeing innocent, naïve - and especially young - characters in obvious peril enjoying the simplicity of friendships, parents and school activities, especially when those things as wonderous as they are in the Wizarding World. That ultimately makes for a joyous film with the perfect levels of warmth and cold that to keep you engaged from start to finish.
  
  WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE: Perhaps some of Columbus' tangents are unnecessary baggage, and their appreciation may be somewhat reliant on audience mood and patience.
  
  VERDICT: With a more dramatically effective narrative to test these great young characters, Chris Columbus' 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,' balances that added darkness with the same tangential, world-building warmth of its predecessor to make for a highly engaging and effective sequel.

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