If there was ever a movie series that got better with each film, surely its those wizards from Hogwarts, as HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX is the best one we've seen yet.
The entire tone of the movie is much darker, with Harry in trouble as the film starts for conjuring in front of a muggle (us everyday folks).
After his confrontation with Voldemort at the conclusion of the last film, very few folks believe Harry that the nasty V is back. Seemingly the press and the government are determined to smear Harry and Hogwarts.
New Dark Arts teacher Umbridge , menacingly played by Imelda Staunton, is determined to suck every bit of life and fun out of Hogwarts.
It would be easy for the film to get too dark, but it's such a great cast, especially Daniel Radcliffe, Gary Oldman, Maggie Smith, Ralph Fiennes and Alan Rickman, that you enjoy every minute of the story as it unfolds.
While it's the longest book of the bunch, it's one of the shortest films in the series, cleverly adapted by Michael Goldenberg. I haven't read the books, but certainly didn't feel cheated as its a rich story, filled with great characters, action set pieces, plenty of suspense and even a little budding romance among the students.
The concluding battle between Dumbledore, Harry and Lord V & his minions is excellent. Just like the last film, I'm calling it my fave in the series so far and a solid A.
Comments