  
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Princea.k.a. “HP6,” “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: An IMAX 3D Experience,” “Harry Potter y el misterio del príncipe,” “Harry Potter og halvblodsprinsen,” “Hari Poter i polukrvni princ,” “Harri Potter i napivkrovnyj prync,” “Harry Potter és a félvér herceg,” “Harry Potter a Polovicný princ,” “Harry Potter a Princ dvojí krve,” “Harry Potter e il principe mezzosangue,” “Harry Potter e o Enigma do Príncipe,” “Harry Potter e o Príncipe Misterioso,” “Harry Potter en de halfbloed prins,” “Harry Potter et le prince de sang-mêlé,” “Harry Potter i ksiaze polkrwi,” “Harry Potter ja puoliverinen prinssi,” “Harry Potter ja segavereline prints,” “Harry Potter och Halvblodsprinsen,” “Harry Potter och halvblodsprinsen,” “Harry Potter si printul semipur,” “Harry Potter und der Halbblut-Prinz,” “Harry Potter wa al-amir al-hajin,” “Harry Potter y el misterio del principe,” “O Harry Potter kai o imiaimos prigips,” “Гарри Поттер и Принц-полукровка,” “Хари Потър и Нечистокръвният принц”MPAA Rating:
 for scary images, some violence, language and mild sensuality.Reviewed by: Robbye Fielden Offensive
Moviemaking Quality:
Primary Audience:
Teens, Adults
Genre:
Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery, Romance, Adaptation, Drama, Sequel
Length:
2 hr. 33 min.
Year of Release:
2009
USA Release:
July 15, 2009
DVD: December 8, 2009   
Relevant Issues
Sorcery in the Bible Magic and magicians in the Bible What is the Occult? Answer THE OCCULT—What does the Bible say about it? Answer
“Once again I must ask too much of you, Harry.” As the summer holidays drew to a close, Harry Potter might have expected the stop at The Burrow, the home of the Weasley family, before his return to Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry. However, as “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” picks up the story of “The Boy who Lived,” we find Harry on an unexpected detour with Professor Albus Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) along the journey to The Burrow. Unbeknownst to Harry, Dumbledore has a plan to recruit a former Hogwarts’ teacher to return to the school to fill an empty teaching post. The excursion is the first of several private interactions the two will have throughout the school year as the Professor begins taking a more active role in Harry’s education. The private lessons serve as additional preparation for the impending and unavoidable culmination of the battle of good and evil portrayed in this series. Though Harry is not yet aware of it, recruiting Professor Horace Slughorn (Jim Broadbent) is a key maneuver in Dumbledore’s plan to equip Harry with a complete picture of the enemy he opposes, Lord Voldemort. As the wizarding community continues to endure ongoing attacks and disappearances at the hands of the Death Eaters—followers of The Dark Lord—even Hogwarts does not experience the immunity formerly known to the students and staff. With deadly items finding their way into the school, no one is safe. In spite of the tense climate, new infatuations and romances bloom in abundance. Few of the main characters steer clear of the relationship dance. In her first Harry Potter film, Jessie Cave creates some tension as Lavender Brown while she hotly pursues Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint). Even the studious Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) entertains a crush of her own when she’s not busy criticizing Harry’s copy of Advanced Potion-Making, which contains the mysterious inscription reading, “This book is property of the Half-Blood Prince.” Harry discovered in the previous movie of the series, “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” that he is destined to face The Dark Lord in a duel to the death according to a prophecy made about he and Voldemort many years before: “…one cannot live while the other survives.” In this film Harry and Dumbledore together strive to solve a bit of a mystery that could prove key to Harry’s attempt to defeat Lord Voldemort. Simultaneously, Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton) is an uncharacteristically solitary figure in his sixth year who grows more despondent and sallow as he struggles with a mysterious task assigned by Lord Voldemort. Professor Severus Snape (Alan Rickman) finds himself bound by an unbreakable vow to support Draco in his efforts while his true allegiances remain a mystery to both the audience and people around him. Sides are clearly chosen and good and evil defined as the movie progresses to a poignant climax. It stands to reason that readers of this review have likely been exposed to the Harry Potter series either via the books or the 5 previous movies. Those unfamiliar with the overall storyline will likely be lost, as this movie hardly stands alone in the grand scheme of the tale. Based on this presupposition that this audience is indeed already familiar with the content of Harry Potter, this reviewer will not present a detailed evaluation of the witchcraft and wizardry theme. Though a controversial topic within the Christian community, reviews on this site of the earliest Harry Potter movies provide ample arguments against the series. Additionally, this reviewer is of the opinion that presentation of the topics in question is done in a way that portrays a fantastical version of witchcraft and little more. Thus, the review below will only attempt to offer some insight into the accuracy of the movie as it pertains to the book, a summary of material other than the witchcraft theme that may be a moral consideration for some, and some general opinions about the movie quality and entertainment value. The scenes found in previews of “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince” had this fan of the books in high hopes that the movie would follow quite closely with the storyline. Surprisingly, this latest installment contained more deviation than any of the previous five flicks. Certain characters, such as Cornelius Fudge and Rufus Scrimgeour, are entirely excluded. As usual, it’s an impossible to task to capture J.K. Rowling’s details in a film of reasonable length, so primarily only the key points are present and accounted for. The journey to get to each important moment is not always along the original path that readers know, so prepare yourself to enjoy the movie as it was scripted and directed instead of holding rigidly to Rowling’s telling. The director was time conscious and included some scenes that were intended to summarize a great number of the book’s details for the viewing audience. Despite the continued dark times depicted, this movie earned a PG rating. There is surprisingly little intense fighting and only one instance where significant blood is drawn in a battle. Another less bloody, but still violent scene involves one student stomping on the face of another who is unable to defend himself at the time. Outside of these scenes, and the occasional spell-throwing wizard clashes, the course language is minimal. There are several questionable moments involving teenage kissing and kissing in secluded/unsupervised areas. Also, many of the young ladies of the film are portrayed as pursuers and some even use magical love potions to attempt to reel in a crush. Depending on an audience member’s personal convictions on these issues, caution may need to be exercised. [***SPOILER WARNING for this paragraph***] A topic that may prove troubling for sensitive viewers is that of the death of Professor Albus Dumbledore. To add additional strife to an already emotional event, the murder is committed by his colleague, Severus Snape, after Draco Malfoy is unable to complete this task which was assigned to him by The Dark Lord. While the scene is handled with dignity, the death of such a beloved main character may come as an extreme shock to some, perhaps especially to young viewers. One of the fantastic advantages of the mounting battle of good and evil in this series is that the sides are more delineated as time progresses. There is a clear line drawn between those who side with Lord Voldemort and his evil deeds and those who are standing together for that which is good. It is clear in the movie that those who rule in an evil manor do so by fear while a sense of peace and love is consistently portrayed in opposition to that evil. A key scene in the movie depicts many on Harry’s side casting light from their wands to dispel The Dark Mark cast by a Death Eater. This scene alone allows for many conversation starters about good versus evil and light versus dark. It brought to mind the verse in Psalm 139:12 that says “…even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.” The topic of death contained in the movie also provides a way to discuss with others the assurance of a life after death. While the movie does not address the afterlife, the death of an important individual is significant enough to lend itself to a discussion. The audience is not told what happens to a person after death in the wizarding world, but what happens at death is a concern for every human in our world today. Christians believe that we will spend eternity in Heaven because we have experienced the forgiveness of sins by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, His death on the cross, and His resurrection from the dead. Overall, this movie is extremely well made. Viewers will be impressed with the quality of the film and not a single actor leaves much room for improvement. In many ways this installment merely moves the story along and acts as a bridge to the last book (which will appear as two flicks), so some may find the lack of action frustrating. Yet the story contained in “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince” is priceless in terms of the big picture. Violence: Mild / Profanity: Mild / Sex/Nudity: None This film is not recommended by Christian Spotlight™ due to its themes of witchcraft, sorcery and occult magic which are rooted in rebellion against God.
See list of Relevant Issues—questions-and-answers. Reviews of other Harry Potter movies
  Comments below:
Positive
Positive - This installment seemed to move a bit slower than the previous ones but was still worth watching on the big screen. There was a lot more light moments and fewer scary ones. Be aware that the scene in the ocean cave will scare young children. There are a lot of kissing scenes, which might be too much for some. I wasn't offended by anything and was entertained. I feel the PG rating is appropriate. Parents need to watch it first and decide if their children are mature enough to handle it. Positive - I went opening night with my family, once again. We are big Harry Potter fans because we love the christianity which just pours out of the stories, and from J. K. Rowlings fingers. I knew the movie was going to be depressing, because it is one of the more depressing books since at this time it just seems like the war against Voldemort is hopeless. And indeed the movie was depressing, and sad. It sill had a lot of funny parts and I was amazed at how close they stayed to the book. I, also, thought the trio did an amazing job of acting their parts, once again, and you can see the maturity is some of their acting. The film was VERY good, and I would highly suggest all you Harry Potter fans go see it right now, if you didn't go last night. I can't wait for the 7th, 2 part movie to come out, but when it does it will be weird, almost the same feeling as when finished the last chapter of the last book. Positive - …This movie was easily the best of the series, with some seriously epic parts. For the first time, I got a real sense of the strife and turmoil the magic world is going through with the return of Voldemort. The scenes involving Malfoy's struggle with his task that he has been given to perform are very well done, and Michael Gambon's role as Dumbledore was excellent. Try to tell me it didn't give you chills when he was on top of that tiny island fighting the inferi with fire! As for moral implications, its great for kids. I've read the books multiple times, and viewed the movies on more than one occasion. And yet I still feel that I have a wonderful relationship with God, and have never felt the urge to join in “occult practices.” …Great film! Positive - If the first 5 Harry Potter films are the fun and adventurous Star Wars: A New Hope, then The Half-Blood Prince is the much darker, more dramatic Empire Strikes Back. The trailers promise an epic of LOTR proportions, but the actual delivery of this 6th HP reel is fairly placid. Still, this movie builds tension, darn near constantly. It all culminates in what I'm certain is a very pivotal moment, one that ultimately raises more questions than answers. What happens now? Why the deceit? What is the significance of the moniker “Half-Blood Prince”? Where... is Harvey... Dent-ah?!? Not being a reader of the book series, I'm left to wonder where everything's headed. I refuse to cheat, so I'll continue to be the half-informed ditz 'til they release the last two films. C'est la vie fellow friend. C'est la vie. Positive - I well remember the first Harry Potter film; my youngest daughter was ten, and the comments of many Christian leaders were that the film (and the books about the character upon which it was based), were about witchcraft. As a result of this, I decided to check the film as I didn't want my child seduced into that world. I found a film that was witty, yet dealt with such themes as murder, alienation, prejudice against supposed inferior people, etc, but on the whole a great romp. Neutral
Neutral - This movie/book was made for older children/young adults. If you have younger children, pick another movie. These books grew with a generation, and the generation who grew with it (people 17-19 currently) understand the dark and good side, the trouble with magic, and that it is a made-up story. Taking a young child to see this movie is BAD. They do not fully understand that magic is bad. If you do feel it necessary to take your 7 or younger child, explain to them why magic is bad and God's feelings on magic. Also, it can be used as a great opportunity to show good and evil. Yet, if you have read the book, prepare to be disapointed. Negative
Negative - If you haven't read the books - the Harry Potter films are dis-jointed leaving the viewer with many unanswered questions. A film should be able to stand alone - this one does not. As usual the photography, music and acting are top-notch. The language is tame, no sexual inuendos or half naked bodies running around. It's been great fun watching the cast grow up over these last eight years, and besides Dumbledore the cast has pretty much remained intact - quite an accomplishment! The film is heavy with occult themes and images - but the way I see it, this is just a last ditch effort from Satan to garner some last minute attention. He's just a bee buzzing around without a stinger. Irritating? yes - dangerous? only if you let him be. Overall, I enjoyed the time with my children—the film was secondary. Negative - …good from a theatrical point of view, but I had trouble getting past the moral issues. From underage drinking being considered normal, to children being told to kill teachers, the whole movie was full of moral and eithical issues, that were addressed from a worldly point of view. I watched the first 5 Harry Potter movies, and will continue to do so, despite some moral and ethical points, but I am uncertian that I will watch this one again, due to the amount of questionable choices made in it. Positive - In response to a previous comment about the film being full of “moral and ethical questions,” it seems the viewer has missed the entire point, that Draco was acting under threat of death by Lord Voldemort. None of his actions that might be considered "evil" are in any way glorified, but instead are condemned and depicted as morally sickening (Draco's increasing guilt and horror contrasted heavily with Tom Riddle's careless discussion of murder). Negative - A lousy movie, the plot just never went anywhere and that made it boring to watch. Not typical of Potter movies. I was not happy that I spent money to see it. I have seen all the Potter movies. I would not take young children to them but I dont see them as evil either. If you do take a young child you can use it as a teaching tool on correct Biblical principles. Comments from young people
Neutral - This movie was not as good as the last five,and they took out so much of the book it wasnt funny.Like the battle at the end was suppose to be huge, and they just left it out. I would never see this movie again. i will probally buy it when it comes out on dvd so i can have the complete series, but other than that i woul dnever watch it again. Positive - First of all, I would like to say bravo to the reviewer of this movie for not bringing his opinion on whether Harry Potter is "satanic" or not into his review. I may not know exactly what the bible says about witchcraft, but I love Jesus and God, and no matter how many times I see this movie, I don't plan on worshipping the devil anytime soon, and I doubt anyone else will. If they do, I don't think that has anything to do with Harry Potter. As a fan of the books, I have to say that it was not a good adaption, but an excellent movie. It was extremely funny in parts, and I thought Daniel Radcliffe did an amazing job, and so did Rupert Grint. I must admit that I thought that some of the scenes were not very cohesive, and the plot had some holes in it, but the acting and dialogue was good enough so that you don't really notice the holes in it until you analyze it like I am doing now. As far as biblical content, Harry Potter is a good versus evil story, and friendship is very important to the plot. It did not strike me as satanic or occult, and I would not even know that people consider Harry Potter as such until I started reading the reviews on this site, which I visit regularly. I think if you are a Harry Potter fan, you will love this movie. Positive - First of all, I think that watching or reading Harry Potter is not bad. Just as long as you don't believe in it. I spotted only a few other bad things in the movie. One was that they had people kissing a lot. They had a few curse words, but that was about it. Now to the bright side of the movie. The movie was very funny, it had some scary parts but not very scary, and it was mysterious. Over all I think this movie is worth seeing. Positive - I saw this movie with my Dad and friend 2 days ago, and it was great! They stayed pretty close to the book, although they made some things less scary. If you're worried about the movie being scary, the Inferi and the Sectumsempra spell were the two main scary parts of the movie. They weren't quite as bad as I expected, but I think they would scare kids 10 and under. The cave scene was very dark, and it made me jump when Harry dipped the bowl into the water and a creepy hand shot out and grabbed him. He was also pulled down under the water by the Inferi, but saved by Dumbledore. The scene was filmed really well, and exactly how I pictured it. The Sectumsempra spell wasn't to bad, Harry yelled it out and then went around the corner and Draco Malfoy had spots on him where he was bleeding. I thought Professor Slughorn was cast perfectly. Neutral - I saw “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”… and I have to say I was very dissapionted. As mentioned in Robbye Fielden's review this movie left out a whole bunch of things that were in the book and filled it with a bunch of new idea's that aren't that great. In the movie they only showed three memories and in the book their were five or six I am not really sure but they left all the cool memories out. There was nothing really offensive in here. There was only a couple of parts with blood and if you have a kid that's scared real easy I wouldn't take them to see this movie because of the Inferi (which are basically zombies that are controlled by Voltermort) that try to kill Harry and Dumbledore. There was one instance when Ron says, "Bloody h-ll" but that was about it for the language. There wasn't anything else offensive in this movie execpt that it was a bit darker than the others. Positive - …there are clearly very many christian themes in The Deathly Hallows book. I love Jesus with all my heart and have never thought of joining the occult or anything. I think that it is innocent fantasy novel, and I have never heard of anyone joining the occult because of Harry Potter. I liked the movie, overall, except the cave scene might scare some of your younger kids, so you might want to stay away from that if you have a 6 year old and below. I thought that it had an awful ending though. Positive - Best.Movie.of 2009!!!… I am a HUGE harry potter fan, and I must say, this movie was NOT a disapointment! "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince" is a MUST SEE!! Positive - You may be wondering why i rated it excellent, well the reason is ITS NOT REALL! And my parents were worried about it when the first one came out, so my dad went and saw it without me and my mom. When he got back he explained that it was not at all anti God, it was purely fiction and purely enjoyable! And I love the books and the movies, but I love God more. I think that it is the best one yet and the best movie of the year! It may be a little bit scary for children under the age of six. Movie Critics
…this sixth chapter is a darker, more ominous Harry Potter film, with a conclusion that suggests more alarmingly the deep dangers Harry and his friends have gotten themselves into.… I admired this Harry Potter. It opens and closes well, and has wondrous art design and cinematography as always, only more so.… …Although this Harry Potter episode extols some moral virtues such as bravery, courage and honesty, MOVIEGUIDE® advises extreme caution because they are not applied consistently and because they take place in a world of witchcraft, which is rebellion against God’s Power and His Law.… …Latest ‘Potter’ is long on buildup, short on magic… Potions play a pivotal part in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” and I wish I’d been able to find one for patience.… …What the results lack in dramatic and visceral punch - the film has a PG rating - it makes up for in style.… Hogwarts now resembles just another English boarding school, and the childlike wonder that marked previous entries in the series has been replaced by a real-world sense of responsibility and looming consequence.… …“Half-Blood Prince” is witty, spectacular and one of the best… spellbinding, even though it is more grounded in reality and less fanciful than previous installments.… …the storyline is still getting darker with blood, zombies, pain and loss taking the fore.… It is powerful, poignant and problematic—filled with magic and mayhem and messy issues. Childhood officially left behind in “Half-Blood Prince” …easily the funniest, darkest and most ambitious film of the successful series.… Feeling the weight of his fate as “the chosen one,” Harry, along with his pals, are heading toward the ultimate battle between good and evil, one replete with religious symbolism and overtones. And more than ever before, the character of Harry is positioned as the Jesus figure, a symbol of hope in a hopeless world… |
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Is Harry Potter Harmless?