Harry Potter And The Chamber Of: Secrets

For fans of the books, it’s a comfort watch. For newcomers, it’s a solid fantasy thriller that earns its runtime. And for anyone who doubts Dobby’s importance—watch his final scene with Harry on the beach, then try not to tear up.

This film excels at showing the consequences of magic. From the flying Ford Anglia and the Whomping Willow to Polyjuice Potion and the enchanted Howler, the world feels lived-in and dangerous. Dobby the house-elf (voiced by Toby Jones) introduces the concept of magical servitude, and the Moaning Myrtle subplot (Shirley Henderson, hilariously tragic) adds pathos. The Burrow, the Weasley home, is a masterpiece of production design—chaotic, cozy, and utterly magical. Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets

The overly long and unfunny Gilderoy Lockhart “remedial magic” class with the Cornish pixies. For fans of the books, it’s a comfort watch