I've changed my mind about Sorcerer's Stone (really, Philosopher's Stone, thank you) over the years: it's a lot more fun, colorful, and downright magical, if you will, than the latter films in the series. It's worn well over time. Things are relatively low-stakes as we get to know our main characters and this universe.    Plus, I want to enter it. I think that is the best element of the Harry Potter Universe: one wants to BE there. I'm still waiting for my Hogwarts letter.    Lots of fun concepts are presented, in a charming and whimsical fashion. What Hogwarts House would you be in? What would be your position on Quidditch? What is your wand made of? And most interesting, what would you see in the Mirror of Erised? (That is Desire, spelled backwards.)    I know I have all my answers considered: Gryffindor, Seeker, willow with a Phoenix core...and none of your business, lol. JK Rowling invents all kinds of things to ponder as she slowly builds the Wizarding universe, starting exclusively at the school, working into the larger world in subsequent novels and films.   The plot itself is mostly disposable, which is fine, as there is so much to enjoy. The John Williams soundtrack does a lot of heavy lifting, and director Chris Columbus wraps us in a cozy blanket as we follow Harry and friends into such classes as Transfiguration, Potions, and Magical Charms. BTW, it's Levio-SAH. Swish and flick!    I honestly think this first film is better on rewatch, since things get really dark by the 4th film and never relents until the end. At this point, it's a lovely ride. Enjoy the trip across the dark lake at night, the huge feast, the Sorting Ceremony, and, of course, the iconic trip on the Hogwarts Express. 

Grade: A-

Plot This is the tale of Harry Potter, an ordinary 11-year-old boy serving as a sort of slave for his aunt and uncle who learns that he is actually a wizard and has been invited to attend the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. Harry is snatched away from his mundane existence by Hagrid, the grounds keeper for Hogwarts, and quickly thrown into a world completely foreign to both him and the viewer. Famous for an incident that happened at his birth, Harry makes friends easily at his new school. He soon finds, however, that the wizarding world is far more dangerous for him than he would have imagined, and he quickly learns that not all wizards are ones to be trusted.

7:42●●● 95%

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