Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Chris Columbus, 2002 (161 mins, Cert. PG)

After a terrible summer with his dreary Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon, harry goes back to Hogwarts School for witches and wizards, knowing he faces imminent danger when he returns. The much awaited second film of J.K. Rowling's popular novels again stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry, together with Robert Grint and Emma Watson as his friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. A few grown-ups are also on hand: Maggie Smith, Alan Rickman, Kennmeth Brannagh, Robbie Coltrane, Fiona Shaw, Richard Griffiths, John Cleese, Richard Harris and Julie Walters. Another sumptuous feast of magic and wizardry.
(Barbican Publicity)

Chris Columbus piles on the action in this second Harry Potter film. It's a spectacular roller-coaster that barely slows enough to draw breath for more than two and a half hours. Those few not already familiar with the book have to be very alert at times to catch brief snatches of explanation and plot squeezed in as we hurry on to the next climactic set-piece. Those in the cast reprising roles from the first film show a welcome sense of growing comfort with their alter egos, though Emma Watson did look very grown up at times. There's more darkness and less school-based wish-fulfilment in this second instalment which is well reflected in the film. Exhiliarating, faithful and tantalising: should not be missed.
(Steve Fagg)

Seen: Thursday, 14th November, 2002 (Barbican Cinema 1)