Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban

UK Release Date. 31 May 2004
Certification. PG
Running Time. 2 hours 22 mins
Director. Alfonso Cuarón
Cast. Julie Christie, Robbie Coltrane, Michael Gambon, Rupert Grint, Gary Oldman, Daniel Radcliffe, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, Timothy Spall, David Thewlis, Emma Thompson, Emma Watson.
Rating. 74%

Review.

In the lexicon of the film franchise the importance of Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban cannot be overstated. 

For in the hands of Mexican director Alfonso Cuarón, Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban established the creative direction, and to some extent the formula, for the remaining films in the saga. By ensuring the story is told solely from Harry's point of view, Cuarón is able to adeptly adapt the increasingly lengthy books into coherent and digestible films. For the first time in the series, J.K. Rowling's original source material no longer appears sacrosanct. Cuarón unleashes a freedom, in contrast to the slavish dedication that apparently restrained Chris Columbus.

Accompanying the daring narrative, Cuarón, aided by cinematographer Michael Seresin, injects a visual flair to Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban. An evolution of the look and feel of the previous two films.

The film centres on convicted murderer, Sirius Black (Gary Oldman) who has escaped from Azkaban Prison, and is believed to be intent on killing Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe). In response, and allegedly to protect the students, the Ministry of Magic have stationed Dementors, Azkaban prison guards, around Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The first appearance of these wraithlike, demonic creatures on the Hogwarts Express is quite simply chilling.

Following the death of Richard Harris in October 2002, Michael Gambon steps into the role of Professor Albus Dumbledore. His skilful performance neither tries to emulate or deviate from Harris' characterisation of the sagacious headmaster.

Whilst other films may rank higher, Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban was definitely a highpoint in the series at the time of release. The genius of Hermione's Time-Turner makes for a devilishly cunning and brilliantly structured final act, helping the film stand out from the climatic wand confrontations of other films. The exposition is executed to perfection. And whilst the film may neglect a lot of the detail of the book, Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban details the wonderment of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and the increasingly ominous threats lurking within.

Now. Turn to page 394.