Almost everyone reading this review will have read the Harry Potter novels and seen the previous six films. Deathly Hallows part 1 is a natural progression from the earlier works--faithful to the book and very well done.

I didn't enjoy the film very much, but that reflects the "calm before the storm" aspect of the plot. Everything in this film is preparing us for the final shootout (curseout?) that will take place in 7b.

We don't learn too much new in this movie. We already know that adolescents have sexual fantasies, Emma Watson looks good in jeans, and Voldemort is a really, really bad guy.

Except for the three stars, all the other regulars just have cameo roles, although Dauby has one great scene.

If you're into Harry Potter, naturally you have to see this film. If not, it's not the one with which to begin.

As always, the special effects are great, and many will be lost on a small screen. If you're going to see the movie, see it in a theater if possible.