This week I’m on a Harry Potter kick. I am currently in the
middle of a Harry Potter marathon. As many times and I’ve read the books and
seen the movies, the story never gets old. I love the magic, I’ve become
attached to the characters, I appreciate the creativity and imagination that
was put into it; and I appreciate the imagination it brings out in me.
With trying to have a more critical lens and media eye while
watching these movies this time around, I’ve picked up on more details.
I believe the content to be good. The story of good vs. evil
is a classic. The ever present and much needed conflict to keep the story
interesting does just that—it compels us to continue. It keeps the viewer
coming back and keeps the viewer entertained.
Watching these movies this time through, I’ve really noticed
how much I truly appreciate the content. There are many admirable characters
that stand for good values and have good morals. There is fighting and
defending for what is right. There are trials to overcome and friends and
allies unite to become a stronger and better force.
One thing that I really got thinking about is the target
audience. Though the books might be classified as young adult, I think many
people see Harry Potter as a story for children. Though I wouldn’t disagree, I
do think most children would thoroughly enjoy the series (along with all other
age groups), I picked up on a lot more details that make the movies extremely
dark and scary. Therefore distancing them from younger individuals.
I believe the movies to be fairly accurate and true to the
story, but I started to think about how the films don’t exactly align with a
majority chunk of their target audience. The content is suspenseful and intense.
I know of young kids who have read the books and love them! But their parents
won’t let them watch the movies yet. And do I blame the parents? No! The movies
are SCARY.
I love the content of the books and the movies. I love the
story and the details and the way it makes me feel. But from a media lens and
with a new perspective, I picked up on new details and wonder about what could
maybe have been done differently to be able to better encompass a larger
audience.
But in all honestly, and to wrap things up, LONG LIVE HARRY
POTTER. And RIP Alan Rickman (aka SNAPE)!!!
I agree with you. Harry Potter does discuss many critical topics for young adults and children but often those themes and ideas get lost to people who are too young. All they tend to see is the magic and the darkness, which can be damaging. As adults, I feel like we can appreciate it more because we understand the themes better.
ReplyDeleteLOVE Harry Potter!!!! I was so sad that Alan Rickman died, he's one of the truly great actors.
ReplyDeleteYou are right on the dot of why Harry Potter doesn't get old and why many still love the movies and rewatch them! I really like that you bring up the issue of the movies being age appropriate for younger children, especially since the books are geared for younger ages.
ReplyDeleteYou are right on the dot of why Harry Potter doesn't get old and why many still love the movies and rewatch them! I really like that you bring up the issue of the movies being age appropriate for younger children, especially since the books are geared for younger ages.
ReplyDeleteI loved your thoughts about the content and magic this world creates for us. Amen.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I loved what you were saying about the audiences that it appeals too. I actually have been disappointed in JK Rowling for not continuing to write for an audience that appreciates her so. Children, adults, and young adults all love her stories. They really do. Those movies are so scary in parts. I also wonder how children would do at distinguishing reality and fiction with them.
RIP RICKMAN.