Now, I have to confess, I am not a fan of Harry Potter - shocking I know.
I have read bits of the books, seen parts of the films, and nothing about the boy wizard has ever enchanted me.
However, I was mildly curious, and my friend wanted to see it, so I found myself agreeing to go and see the latest movie.
I would love to say I realised the error of my ways and fell in love with the magical world of Potter, but I would be lying.
I liked the secret spell preparation, and the little touches of imagination, such as the miaowing cat plates, which let you know you are in a weird and wonderful new world.
But I did not want to stay there.
The narrative was bitty, and, I am led to believe, did not follow JK Rowling's book at all faithfully.
My friend was helpfully trying to explain past events to me, but kept stopping to cry in outrage, "that's not right!".
I know there is more to come, but Ralph Fiennes was still massively under-used, as were many of the excellent "adult" actors who form the ensemble cast.
As for the children, too many of the once baby-faced pupils now look old enough to drink at the, no doubt, lavish wrap-party.
Daniel Radcliffe is left to carry the story, and although his acting has improved since his first outing as Harry - how could it not have? - he still lacks the expression and depth to share heavyweights such as Fiennes and Gary Oldman.
Sorry to all the hardcore Potter fans out there, I respect your dedication, but for me, the magic was missing.
3 Stars.
First published in the Evening Gazette
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