>> HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE
HARRY FACES HIS GREATEST CHALLENGE YET...
Often hailed as the most exciting of J.K. Rowling’s books, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire has a lot to live up to if it’s going to capture the extremes of the novel: first love, loss, jealousy and bitter revenge are just a few of the themes explored as Harry experiences the highs of a Quidditch World Cup and the lows of an inter-school tournament riddled with danger. And while the Ministry of Magic concentrates its efforts on these international sports, Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) sees his cause grow in strength and numbers.
Contrary to vicious rumours, Daniel Radcliffe returns this November as Harry in the fourth instalment of the brilliant saga. In fact, the cast list remains relatively unchanged as far as the central characters are concerned, but with the introduction of figures from the wider wizarding world, be prepared for some new additions in supporting roles: namely Miranda Richardson as roving reporter Rita Skeeter, David Tennant (TV’s new Dr Who) as Barty Crouch Jr, and Jarvis Cocker as a bandmember (likely front man of The Weird Sisters).
The directorial baton has been passed on once again, this time to Four Weddings and a Funeral director Mike Newell. His ability to convey the comedy in a situation is unquestioned, and with the Depp-Pacino thriller Donnie Brasco under his belt he should have no trouble in delivering both the humour of the story and the unflinchingly dark climax. With that said, if you loved the sinister aspects of The Prisoner of Azkakban, you won’t be disappointed with The Goblet of Fire.
By Charity Wilson