The Prisoner of Azkaban is the 3rd Harry Potter movie and easily the best of the first three. New director Alfonso Cuaron brings much more style and energy to the movie than Chris Columbus who directed the first two. The subject matter is also darker and that transfers over to the look of the movie as well. While it follows the same formula of the previous movies it twists everything into a more complex and satisfying film. The standard Quidditch match moves from bright and sunny to taking place in the middle of a thunderstorm. The threat of death looms over almost every shot while still leaving room for some much needed comedic moments.Cuaron twists camera angles and uses less traditional cuts to tell the story whereas Columbus relied on a more "everyman" approach. All three lead actors also give their best performances to date, with Daniel Radcliff actually showing off some real emotion. I've read complaints that the plot is too convoluted but I had no problems following along.
The Blu-ray sports an excellent video transfer as well. There is not nearly as much color as the previous films but detail is improved from previous Blu-ray's. The audio really benefits from Cuaron's style as well, surrounds are much more active in establishing ambiance and the action sequences are mesmerizing.
I really liked Prisoner of Azkaban and as a long-time detractor of the Harry Potter series it kind of pains me to admit it. I will likely never be a hardcore Potter kind of guy but if the series continues in the direction established here than I will be more than happy to keep watching.
Rating
Movie 4.5/5
Blu-ray 4.5/5
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