Classic Review #50: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

Available on Netflix

The maiden voyage of the Harry Potter franchise hasn’t necessarily aged well, given the myriad of technological advancements that the film industry has undergone in the last 22 years. Nonetheless, it most definitely achieves its most pressing purpose, which is to successfully establish and immerse its audience in the world of J.K. Rowling’s treasured novels.

And, while Rowling’s name isn’t one worth celebrating nowadays, the author’s insistence that the cast of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone be composed of British and Irish actors was an undoubtedly savvy one, as it ensures Chris Columbus’ adaptation is a faithful one. While Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson certainly weren’t the most accomplished of child actors to ever be put to screen, their respective performances as Harry, Ron, and Hermione never feel anything less than authentic.

Then again, who needs outstanding lead actors when you have a supporting cast that includes the likes of Alan Rickman, Richard Harris, and Maggie Smith? The USP of the Harry Potter series has always been the ensemble of actors it attracted, although all of the aforementioned thespian powerhouses are arguably overshadowed by Robbie Coltrane’s affable performance as Hagrid in this particular franchise entry.

With an iconic John Williams score and some truly excellent set designs to boot, it’s not hard to see how this film overcame its limitations to become the highest grossing film of 2021, grossing a staggering $974 million at the worldwide box office.