I write this from the viewpoint of someone who isn't a big Harry Patter fan, but I liked (not loved) the HP films, so perhaps I haven't the emotional connection with the characters and storyline that some have.

I enjoyed this film, but it was lacking a bit in pace and parts of the story did drag a little. I also found it hard to connect/care about the characters in the story. This wasn't by any means due to how they were portrayed by the actors. There was indeed some fine performances by a cast of heavyweights. Plus the CGI was first class and the 'beasts' were truly fantastic.

I guess my slight disappointment was the story, which is strange considering who wrote it. It does feel like a link between the first film and a final part, yet to be penned.

So, all in all, a decent effort and enjoyable watch but I can't imagine it will appear on anyone's, even the most diehard HP fan's, 'film of the year' list.