I do believe this is the best Harry Potter movie to date. The technology and acting has greatly improved since the first film. I especially liked the quidditch scenes. However, I was disappointed that so many story lines from the book were omitted or altered. I'm hoping the DVD will have a 4+-hour unedited edition!
I feel that 85% of the film is either scary or sad. I only heard one slight giggle from a child. I expect an animation film marketed to children to be fun. This film was not at all carefree entertainment like Finding Nemo or Toy Story, for example.
Despite the critics, I think Cruise did a good job. I found it an entertaining history lesson. And I appreciated that the violent scenes weren't nearly as graphic as typical in today's movies.
I enjoyed the film, but should have waited to see it on cable and save $8. I did laugh out loud several times. I don't think I would have, however, if I hadn't enjoyed the television series years ago.