Unless you have been living in the deepest darkest recesses of a cave (and even then …) you know that Harry Potter came to a thrilling conclusion this weekend.

Having just saw the final installment I can say that it is a fitting tribute to a film (and book) series which has captured the hearts and imaginations of so many around the world.

I will readily admit that I was not always as enamored with the franchise in its two forms as I am now. I started out as a casual watcher of the first two films. The turning point for me was the third film, the Alfonso Cuaron-helmed “Prisoner of Azkaban.” Until today I felt it was by far the best of the franchise. As a result, I figured it could only get better and I eventually saw every remaining film at the cinema.

Deathly Hallows, Part 2 was all I could have expected in a final part to the franchise. It was epic in many ways. I know that this is a term that often gets overused but in this case, I feel like it is appropriate. The film had full on action, suspense, thrills, a few laughs and yes, I did well up a couple of moments. I guess I must have expected as much as it is the same reaction that I had when I finished reading the books (principally Goblet of Fire and this book).

For everything this film is (a classic struggle of good v. evil, wizardry, etc.), it also mainly deals with the themes of friendship, death, love, the absence of love and what happens at all points in between. The film handled all of these issues evocatively.

There isn’t much else for me to say except that while I am pleased with the final product, there is that part of my 30-something year old heart that is saddened to see the series come to an end, no matter how satisfying. If there is anything that can be gleaned from this overall Harry Potter cinematic experience, it is the idea that nothing lasts forever.

Oh – one final note for anyone who will see it in the future – 3D not required; in fact I may see it a second time in 2D. IMAX is just fine.