There is a delicious mixture of comedy and pathos that emulates Rowling's novels well. Of course there are moments which we ask "Why?"--the opening scene for example. The Dursleys would have been better. The end scene (spoiler alert) "Why not?" Seeing the sepulchre at the lakeside would have been lovely and poignantly understated. But the overall quality of cinematography, special effects and yes, even the acting has gone up a notch. The casting is superb: The relationship between Harry and Hermione is quite well-acted. The friendship bond seems quite genuine. Critics will grouse, but accepting the film medium for what it is and the literature for itself as well will maximize the patron's enjoyment.