If you've never heard of Harry Potter, then I must wonder where you've been the last 5 years.  From books to toys, the world of Harry Potter has inflitrated every aspect of the commercial world.  This movie marks its debut in the world of Hollywood, and is definitely a movie for the entire family.

 

New comers to the Harry Potter franchise would do well to use this film as a launching pad.  It happens to be one of the most faithful adaptations of novel I have ever seen, and we have JK Rowling(auther of the Harry Potter series) to thank for that.  Though there are a number of glaring differences between the books and the film, they hardly effect the overall feel or beauty of this story.

 

The dvd edition offers tons of extras including interviews and deleted scenes, but I must say my one big gripe is that there is no option to play the movie WITH the deleted scenes added.  Considering that the version shown on television has these scenes included, I can only hope that a future 'complete series' edition will in fact make this option available.

 

All in all, this movie is a great family film that tells a wonderful story of discovery, friendship, and courage, and I highly recommend it to everyone.