Each critic has their own opinion and I don't put any stock into what they say. I make up my own mind, and although it is definately a darker movie than the others, those of us who read the books were at least prepared for it and expected it. From what I have seen so far, it looks to be a terrific movie! The performances of the great actors and actresses who have chosen to become a part of the Harry Potter series certainly have certainly not wasted their talents on any of the HP films so far and I doubt they will in this one either, even if the parts aren't big. They knew they wouldn't be going in and knew what the movie and the series was about! They are wonderful!