Very good pacing, as dark as the book and the fully developed acting skills of all 3 leads. My only quibble is the inane dancing scene between Harry and Hermione. Is this the only way Harry could console her over Ron's departure? But worst of all is the semi-sex scene between the two when the horcrux is being destroyed. What the @#$@ is that about? And J Rowling was one of the Producers of the film and allowed an obvious pandering to tweens move??? Looking forward to the conclusion next year.....but I wonder what obvious "get the tweens audience" move will be allowed in part 2.
I enjoyed the performances of the 2 leads, Downey, Jr. and Law, but they really didn't have much to work with. The story was not really compelling and the only interesting touch was a very dark & dirty retro-London. Also, if you were not already familiar with Sherlock Holmes & Watson (and Gen X don't know the story) you would miss out on the backstory...i.e. Holmes was an opium addict. Instead the story was too formulaic. And of course, they have set it up for a sequel, by introducting Holmes' nemesis, Moriarity. Also, absolutely no need for for the contrived female in distress/criminal.
I have been a fan of the books and the films and was amazed at the accuracy between the book and the film. The direction was terrific, and our stars, Grint,Watson & Radcliff are at the tip of their game. I'm looking forward to the last 2 and I still enjoy listing to the CD version narrated by Jim Dale. Long Live HP!!