The film sticks close to what is known from canon, but also allows itself some freedom to offer a well thought out plot. Removing the Harry-filter (the books being mostly told from his point of view) enables this story to really look at the dynamics between the Marauders, Snape and Lily, without getting sidetracked by Harry's prejudices, or other plot developments around it.
At first one might think this film is focused around the duel, the effects, the suspense. Yet the aftermath shows that the topic of bullying and the result of actions is very prevalent. The well constructed dialogue along with the in-depth portrayal of the characters invites the viewer to review their take on them and on the escalation of "harmless" bullying.
Whilst the film does not try to change canon, it certainly offers a new perspective on some central characters. From the reactions I have seen, some viewers have increased their like/dislike of some of them, whilst others have found understanding, a new take or a fuller grasp of the dynamics. This film successfully evoke thought, discussion and further development of character-understanding amongst its viewers.
At first one might think this film is focused around the duel, the effects, the suspense. Yet the aftermath shows that the topic of bullying and the result of actions is very prevalent. The well constructed dialogue along with the in-depth portrayal of the characters invites the viewer to review their take on them and on the escalation of "harmless" bullying.
Whilst the film does not try to change canon, it certainly offers a new perspective on some central characters. From the reactions I have seen, some viewers have increased their like/dislike of some of them, whilst others have found understanding, a new take or a fuller grasp of the dynamics. This film successfully evoke thought, discussion and further development of character-understanding amongst its viewers.