Just seen the film.

I really enjoyed the acting as well as the special effects - from the teenage Hogwarts pupils who've been in all the films so far, as well as the galaxy of RADA trained, ex Footlights, ex RSC British stalwarts. It reminded me of some of the combinations I'd seen before, (like Robbie Coltrane and Emma Thompson in Tutti Frutti, Emma Thompson and Imelda Staunton in Peter's Friends). I especially liked the complexity of the Prof Snape role - I remember Alan Rickman's obsequiously oily performance as Obadiah Slope in the Barchester Chronicles, before he became the baddie in Die Hard and Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood, Prince of thieves.

Hurray for all the Weasleys - well, the 6 who were in this one. Wonderful pyrotechnics and pustules from the twins.

Very enjoyable OTT performance from Helena Bonham-Carter as Bellatrix.

Somewhat unnerving to see Vera Drake as Umbridge.

Kitty