Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1
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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, the second-to-last installment in the epic Harry Potter movie saga (all based on the books by J.K. Rowling) is the darkest, most intense yet. It has the highest body count of any Potter film, including the deaths of several recurring characters -- some of which are particularly emotional and upsetting. Harry (Daniel Radcliffe), Ron (Rupert Grint), Hermione (Emma Watson), and their friends are bloodied, injured, and cursed. In one startling "jump" scene, Lord Voldemort's (Ralph Fiennes) giant killer snake bursts out of an old woman's body; there's also a particularly disturbing torture scene in which a major character is branded with an insult. Expect lots of longing looks and protective embraces between Ron and Hermione, a passionate snog between Harry and Ginny (Bonnie Wright), and a scene of "ghost" versions of Harry and Hermione tormenting Ron with a sensual kiss (they appear to be nude, and you can see their torsos, but it's quite blurry/misty). Despite the amped-up angst and violence, the characters prove again and again that unconditional friendship, loyalty, and love can survive even the most harrowing of threats. Courage, perseverance, and teamwork remain core themes.
What's the Story?
With Professor Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) dead and the Ministry of Magic under Lord Voldemort's (Ralph Fiennes) control at the start of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS: PART 1, Harry (Daniel Radcliffe), Ron (Rupert Grint), and Hermione (Emma Watson) embark on a dangerous mission to search for five missing horcruxes (fragments of Voldemort's soul). Wanted and on the run, the trio goes in search of their first horcrux, Slytherin's locket. Cut off from the rest of the wizarding world, their mission is complicated by stress, fear, and frustration ... which leads to friction and confrontation. But interpersonal matters fade in comparison to threats from Death Eaters, Snatchers, and the Dark Lord's other supporters -- including the Malfoy family and Bellatrix Lestrange (Helena Bonham Carter). Meanwhile, Voldemort is on the hunt himself, not just for Harry, but also for something he believes will aid him in his goal to kill the Chosen One.
Is It Any Good?
The movie alternates between being a frenetic, nail-biting thriller and a slow-moving adolescent relationship drama set against a beautifully shot, expansive backdrop. Director David Yates, back for his third Potter film, speeds through the action sequences early in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 -- like the fantastic Seven Potters scene, in which six of Harry's friends masquerade as him so that they can help move him to safety. But the second act, when Harry, Ron, and Hermione are camping, hiding, and waiting for inspiration can lag, though there's a sweet moment between Harry and Hermione that needs no words. The series' most fervent fans may feel disappointed that some scenes and characters were barely in the movie; it would have been great to see more of Remus (David Thewlis), the Weasleys (especially the twins and Ginny), Neville (Matthew Lewis, who only gets one line), and more. And an entire review could be dedicated to all of the important details in the novel that didn't make the cut.
Despite this, there are fabulous supporting performances by Bill Nighy as the Minister of Magic; Rhys Ifans as Quibbler editor Xenophilous Lovegood; Toby Jones as selfless, noble Dobby; and Evanna Lynch, who's always been pitch-perfect as delightfully quirky Luna Lovegood. There are some great moments of physical comedy, too. As always, though, the heart of the movie comes down to Radcliffe, Grint, and Watson, all of whom give touching, nuanced portrayals as they deal with complicated emotions and terrifying circumstances. Grint in particular is finally able to show some depth as he struggles to balance his love for Hermione, his jealousy of Harry, and his general sense of insecurity. These aren't three kids any more: They're a 17-year-old hero and his best friends, willing to give up everything to save the wizarding world. It's a massive undertaking to depict, and Part 2 provides an appropriately awesome ending.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 is an appropriate movie for younger kids, even if they've seen or read the books. Discuss whether your child is truly ready for this movie, which is very dark and disturbing at times. (And for more, check out our age-by-age guide to Harry Potter.)
Why does Harry need help on his journey? What do Hermione and Ron offer him that no one else can? Can you think of other movie/literary heroes who require a lot of help on their life-or-death journeys?
How does Ron's departure affect Harry and Hermione? How did the locket horcrux torment Ron, and what did it confirm about his self-esteem? Did he redeem himself by his return?
If you've read the book, what parts of the novel were left out? Which were faithfully adapted? How did you feel about the characters who died in the movie?
How do the characters in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 demonstrate teamwork, perseverance, and courage? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters: November 19, 2010
- On DVD or streaming: April 12, 2011
- Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint
- Director: David Yates
- Studio: Warner Bros.
- Genre: Fantasy
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy
- Character Strengths: Courage, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 150 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG-13
- MPAA explanation: some sequences of intense action violence, frightening images and brief sensuality
- Last updated: December 20, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
Spectacularly epic, poignant end to a magical series.
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The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Outstanding, but much violence and scariness.
-
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1
Melancholy, violent sequel sets stage for waging war.
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