WHEN any new instalment from the Harry Potter stable comes out there is much anticipation and the Half Blood Prince is no exception.

Will Ron and Hermoine finally admit their feelings and share a kiss, will Harry and Ron’s younger sister, Ginny also get together?

Yes, it’s all about teenage hormones in the latest adaptation of JK Rowling’s popular series.

The young wizards are growing up and the return of the Dark Lord is not the only thing on their minds in this believable and tender portrayal of the trials and tribulations of being a teenager.

As die-hard HP fans will know the Half Blood Prince’s dramatic end sees the death of one of the main characters (I won’t give it away) but although there is an underlying darkness and menace a lot of the film is a bit rom-comesque.

Newcomer Jessie Cave is spot on as Ron’s over the top girlfriend, who is not backward in coming forward with her public displays of affection, leaving Ron embarrassed and Hermoine seething with jealousy but unable to admit her feelings.

Harry is just as confused over his feelings about Ginny’s dalliance with Dean Thomas.

As the characters of the young wizards have developed Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint get a chance to show us their flair and once again make us believe they are who they play.

And Rupert is a convincing comic actor when given a chance to flex his comedy muscles in the latest Potter.

Through the headteacher’s memories we also see a younger Dumbledore meeting Tom Riddle in an orphanage and unaware of the repercussions of his actions inviting him to study at Hogwarts.

The entrance of the new head of potions, Professor Horace Slughorn (played brilliantly by veteran actor Jim Broadbent) gives us more of an insight into the youngster who is experimenting with the dark side, with Professor Slughorn doing little to dissuade his pupil.

The memory of this event leads to the continued development of Harry and Dumbledore’s relationship (more like father and son than pupil and headteacher) and a chain of events which will only end in tragedy.

The film also sees the character of Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton) developed as he struggles to accept his mission as the chosen one from Lord Voldemort.

His softer, more vulnerable side is seen and even though he is a `baddy’ Felton’s take on the part means you do feel sympathy towards his plight.

As always the cinematography is spectacular and special effects impressive, Londoners will especially enjoy the Millennium Bridge living up to its wobbly reputation and crashing into the Thames in the beginning sequences.

There are less dark moments throughout the Half Blood Prince but there is plenty of comedy and suspense before the dramatic climax, making it must-see for Potter fans old and new.

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (12a) is out on July 15.