Top Ten Scenes from the “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” Film Adaptation

Throughout the entire film series, there were several moments when the films did justice to the books or even improved them. Today, I look at my top ten scenes from the movie version of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

 

The Beginning

 

 

The opening scene perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the film. The music in conjunction with Dumbledore using the Deluminator to switch off the lights, followed by McGonagall’s transformation from cat to human, really captures the magic. Plus, ending the scene with “Hedwig’s Theme,” a song that would become synonymous with the whole franchise, was truly incredible. I much prefer starting the series with this scene instead of starting with the Dursleys’ perspective, and I’m so glad the filmmakers chose to go down this route.

 

The Arrival of the Letters

 

 

Watching the number of letters increase despite the measures Vernon put in place to prevent Harry from getting them was great to see. The buildup from the single letter to the sheer number of envelopes flying into Vernon’s face, especially after he took such pleasure in destroying them, was fantastically done.

 

Dudley’s Tail

 

 

After everything that the Dursleys put Harry through, I thoroughly enjoyed watching them getting a bit of comeuppance. Plus, it hilariously and immediately endeared Hagrid to the audience.

 

Diagon Alley

 

 

The colors combined with the music really make the magical world pop on screen. This moment wonderfully captures the awe and excitement the audience feels when we first enter the wizarding world.

 

Ollivanders

 

 

John Hurt was perfectly cast as Ollivander and really captured his character. It was also so much fun to see what happened when Harry waved his wand.

 

Hogwarts Express

 

 

This is the first time we see the trio together, and we’re introduced to some of the fun aspects of the wizarding world. I loved the sound of the sweets, especially the magical Chocolate Frogs and the cards with the famous witches or wizards. Plus, it was a fantastic introduction to Hermione.

 

Going to Hogwarts

 

 

One of the most gorgeous scenes in the film is the shot of the boat ride to Hogwarts. The color scheme and music really capture the awe you feel when Hogwarts appears.

 

Flying Lessons

 

 

This was another light scene in the film, featuring Ron getting hit in the face with a broomstick, Draco getting a bit of what he deserved, and Harry’s triumphant first flight.

 

Wizard Chess

 

 

The monochrome color palette of this scene made this part visually enticing. This life-sized game of chess was equally terrifying and awesome. It was hard to see what could happen to a piece if they were lost, but it was great to see Ron shine after Harry had his moment with the keys and Hermione had hers with the Devil’s Snare.

 

The End

 

 

After everything Harry went through in this film, I loved the relatively quiet ending with Hagrid waving the trio off. It was incredibly moving to see the book of magical photographs. Also, the jubilant music here was a fantastic accompaniment to the scene.

 

What do you think of my list? Are there any other moments you loved? Let us know in the comments!