Ultraviolence

With an extra two hours for the final installment, the last film is able to adhere to the book more so than any other in the series. While somehow maintaining the feel of the other films, Deathly Hallows 2 separates itself by knowing that it's the end and therefore bringing with it more emotion, conflict, and symbolism than the others. Harry's willingness to give his life makes him not foolish for being the hero for once, but rather his maturity is shown to have grown where he can accept circumstance and face it, though with obvious hesitation. I must say that I particularly enjoyed the way that Snape was performed, since we finally got to see into his past with acting that couldn't have been more perfect. I think that the reason for this film to be so acclaimed by the critics isn't just for its magnificent conclusion, outstanding acting, and epic story, but also for its subtle universality: we all require love to be inspired to triumph over true evil.

I had never seen Joseph Gordon-Levitt play this kind of a character before, and he does it perfectly. His perpetually pent anger is like no other. I enjoyed his reluctantly dynamic nature in that the circumstances force him to change into a contradiction of himself. Don Cheadle's performance was also effective in both showing his character's inner conflict, as would be imaginable in someone who has to deal with potentially violent and uncomfortable situations every day. As for the handheld camera style, I think it contributes to the fact that the film shows a very real part of life in that life isn't steady - especially not in a place like this.