The maturity of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, among others, impressed most critics. While the major characters were portrayed as children in the previous films, "they have subtly transitioned into teenagers (in "Goblet of Fire")" according to one "USA Today" reviewer. Desson Thomson of "The Washington Post" called the film "Probably the most engaging film of the Potter series thus far". Joe Morgenstern of "The Wall Street Journal" stated "The studio, like plucky Harry, passes with flying colors. The new one, directed by Mike Newell from another astute script by Mr. Kloves, is even richer and fuller, as well as dramatically darker. It's downright scary how good this movie is".