This was a much more visual film than the first two. There seemed to be huge swathes of the book left out; but although I'm quite familiar with the book, I was - mostly - able to watch the film in its own merit.

However I found it disturbing that there was so little dialogue, and that the film felt rather short with an abrupt ending. Despite this there were rather over-long visual scenes of (for instance) Harry flying on the hippogriff, or Quidditch games, which added nothing to the storyline.

Some critics have said that this film was 'darker' than the first two; perhaps it is, but then so is the book. I didn't have a problem with that. But I would have preferred more action and speech and considerably less of the visual side. Had I not been aware of the overall plot, I'm not sure I would have followed it.

Still, well worth seeing as part of the series.

Latest full review: https://suesdvdreviews.blogspot.com/2023/10/harry-potter-and-prisoner-of-azkaban... ( )

The Prisoner of Azkaban was the first HP movie to be directed by Alfonso Cuaron. It is differently paced and I like it. Also, unlike the previous two, Hermione has a larger roll. There are many small touches which I appreciate like the bird flying into the Whomping Willow to its demise, like the soft sounds of the night when everyone comes out of the Shrieking Shack and Harry talks with his Godfather. The characters of Lupin and Sirius appear for the first time. This one is quietly dramatic, and of the films in the HP series, my favorite. ( )

This is my favorite of all the films. So much that I went researching the team. Alphonso Cuaron directs. This is his first and only HP. Exceeds in creativity and humor. Gotta check out some of his other works - A Little Princess and Great Expectations.
The director of photography is Roger Pratt; the cinematographer is Michael Seresin. I wonder what the difference is.
Art Director - Andrew Ackland-Snow; Set Director - Stephanie McMillan; Production Designer - Stuart Craig.

Bravo guys!

Harry Potter is having a tough time with his relatives (yet again). He runs away after using magic to inflate Uncle Vernon's sister Marge who was being offensive towards Harry's parents. Initially scared for using magic outside the school, he is pleasantly surprised that he won't be penalized after all. However, he soon learns that a dangerous criminal and Voldemort's trusted aide Sirius Black has escaped from the Azkaban prison and wants to kill Harry to avenge the Dark Lord. To worsen the conditions for Harry, vile creatures called Dementors are appointed to guard the school gates and inexplicably happen to have the most horrible effect on him. Little does Harry know that by the end of this year, many holes in his past (whatever he knows of it) will be filled up and he will have a clearer vision of what the future has in store...

—Soumitra ( )

This is my favourite of the books so the film was never going to live up to that. Very enjoyable though. ( )