Five star

UNLESS you've been living on another planet for the last 18 months, there's no need to explain the Harry Potter phenomenon.

And even if you have been on another planet, you'd still probably know what it's all about.

This film adaptation of JK Rowling's debut novel stays faithful to the book.

So it's perfect for those who have read about Mr Potter's adventures - children and adults alike - and also a brilliant introduction for those who may not have picked up one of the four volumes thus far created.

Harry's magical parents die when he is just a baby and he is forced to spend the first 11 years of his life with his muggle aunt, uncle and cousin (muggle, for those not in the know, is the term for non-wizard humans).

But he is rescued on his 11th birthday by Hagrid (played by Robbie Coltrane) who reveals Harry is in fact a wizard and has been enrolled into Hogwarts School of Wizardry.

The magical atmosphere of Hogwarts is wonderfully created and Harry soon finds himself learning to fly a broomstick, play Quidditch and cast spells.

Teaming up with new-found friends Ron and Hermione, the three find themselves drawn into mystery and adventure that certainly is not on the curriculum for first-year wizards....

The cast - which is almost outrageous in its star quality - is sublime.

From newcomer but perfect-choice Daniel Radcliffe as the eponomous hero to veteran Richard Harris as Professor Dumbledore, every actor positively shines.

The list of names reads like a who's who of modern film-making - Dame Maggie Smith as Professor McGonagal, Robbie Coltrane, Alan Rickman as Professor Snape, and a guest appearance from John Cleese as Nearly Headless Nick. And that's just for starters.

My only (and very pernickity) criticism is that at two hours and 40 minutes, it is perhaps slightly too long for the younger audience.

But other than that, it is a real treat for audiences young and the young at heart.

They have already started work on the next instalment of the series and I for one can't wait!

SC