Photo: Warner Brothers Ent.
The Dark Lord himself couldn't have conjured better box-office news for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. But he sure took it out on Bruno, which dropped 73 percent from its No. 1 debut last week. Those wizards are a bitch. The global debut of the sixth film in the Potter series took in nearly $400 million in its first five days, including $159.7 million in the U.S. alone. That's a record, Muggles. So to say audiences are still wild about Harry is an understatement. Last week I asked you to pick the MVP in the series, Harry excepted. Ron, Hermione and even Draco had to suck it (check out the latest episode of "Off the Cuff with Peter Travers" featuring Harry Potter's Draco Malfoy, Tom Felton). You chose Alan Rickman as Professor Severus Snape. I can't argue that one. Rickman nails a role he was born to play. Now I've got another question for you:
With two movies to go (Warner Bros. is making J.K. Rowling's seventh and last Potter book do double duty as two films to be released in 2010 and 2011), what's the best Harry Potter film in the series so far? In retrospect, I'm more taken than ever with No. 4, 2005's Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, featuring a scarier than hell Voldemort in the person of a chilling Ralph Fiennes (he haunts the Half-Blood Prince film without even showing up in it). But it's No. 3 in the series, 2004's Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, that really moves like a movie and resonates most forcefully, thanks to the cinematic magic of director Alfonso Cuarón (Children of Men, Y Tu Mamá También).
So I'll go with Azkaban. What about you? Which Harry Potter movie so far digs so deep into your dreams that you'd see it again?
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Mogo | July 30, 2009 10:22 PM
1)Prisoner of Azkaban & Half blood Prince (tie)
2)Sorcerers Stone & Chamber of Secrets (tie)
3)Goblet of Fire
4)Order of the Pheonix
How much I liked the movies is directly related to how well I think the told the story from the book in the 2.5 to 3 hours of movie.
Kay | July 26, 2009 8:20 PM
MY FAVORITES:
1. Prisoner of Azkaban
2. The Half-blood Prince
3. Goblet of Fire
4. Order of the Phoenix
5. Chamber of Secrets
6. Sorcerer's Stone
CameronG | July 25, 2009 9:13 PM
The sixth and fifth harry potters were the worst and david yates is a terrible director when it came to the last two because of his lack of detail. The sixth movie was made into some sort of love story between everyone and also portraying harry as somewhat of a ladies man which was a ridiculous idea. The book did not say anything about a love story taking place. They should have shown the rift dumbledore and harry were trying to make from the ministry of magic creating a bridge from this movie to the next showing that the ministry is susceptible to lord voldemort. The third movie is the best of the series with great attention to detail and more than 7 minutes are spent in each scene unlike the 5th and sixth.
Lindsay | July 25, 2009 5:28 PM
Filmically, it'd have to be Cuaron's "Azkaban" - but "Half-Blood Prince" is very, very close, especially with the gorgeous cinematography of the brilliant Bruno Delbonnel.
resilva | July 25, 2009 2:52 PM
At first I didn't like the third movie because it didn't stick to the books as much as its predecessors, but now I have to agree it was the most sophisticated especially with the acting and the cinematic direction.
Roman Petrov | July 23, 2009 10:33 PM
Unquestionably, Azkaban is number one. A close second goes to Order of the Phoenix.
BUBBAJ | July 23, 2009 10:52 AM
MY FAVORITES GO FROM
1st. Goblet of fire
2nd. half blood prince
3rd. prisoner of azkaban
4th. order of the pheonex
5th. scorceres stone
6th. chamber of secrets
ive read the books so i know how much is left out but i honestly really don't care they all entertain me so thats all i need and there all great movies with the exception of the chamber of the secrets
Darth Khan | July 22, 2009 10:09 PM
I find it interesting that most of the folks don't like the Goblet. I for one thought it was good, at least better than the Chamber, which was aweful. Here are my faves in order of best to least:
1. Order of Phoenix
2. The Prisoner
3. The Goblet
4. The Sorcerer's Stoned
5. Half-Blood
6. The Chamber
No doubt the last two movies will rake it in, but let's hope they don't bore like Half-Blood did. I was ready to leave with about 1 hour left. I'd read the book, so I knew how it was going to end anyways.
Alexes | July 22, 2009 9:33 PM
I'm going to judge the movies more on whether or not they captured the feelings they were supposed to. Cinematography is important, but each book had a purpose, had feelings it was meant to draw out and tensions it was meant to portray. I believe some movies failed miserably at highlighting what their chapter was supposed to highlight.
I have to agree-The Goblet of Fire movie was TERRIBLE. They left out so many (what I felt were) important details. For instance, half the reason Ron is so pissed that Harry got his name in the goblet is the money, even though he'd never admit it. And without leaving the money in there, Harry can't give it to the Weasley twins to open their business. There were also tons of holes in this movie. I remember watching it with my mother, who hasn't read the series, and I had to explain things to her left and right.
I'm not a fan of 3. Perhaps the reason I'm not is because 1 and 2 stuck so closely to the book that 3 was a complete shocker. The whole point of 3, the movie, was the fact that a murderer was on the loose. In the book, it goes so much deeper than that, and I fail to see how they couldn't have brought that depth into the movie. Harry keeps seeing "the grim" aka death around every corner, and professor Trelawney keeps predicting his death constantly. In other words, 3 is really kind of about Harry dealing with that fear of death--a fear he needs to learn to deal with given his destiny. And of course we later find out the grim is Sirius keeping an eye on him. He also got the firebolt at the end of the movie, yet his other broom was broken after the one quidditch game. In the book, the firebolt was a huge deal. Everyone thought it was jinxed to kill him or something. In the movie, he just strolls outside and says "Wee!" The series fails to mention that it was Sirius who gave him the broom also--Sirius who was not given near enough of a fatherly role in the movies compared to the books.
Which brings me to 5. 5 had to be the better movie so far (I've yet to see 6 :[). The spirit of the ministry vs. Harry/Dumbledore was captured very well, and that was one of the more important dynamics in the book. Umbridge did a great job at being a complete witch. The only part of 5 that should have been better was Sirius's death. Had he been shown in a bit more of a parental role, it would have felt different. If I hadn't read the book, I'd almost be led to wonder why the heck Harry was so upset by it. Sure, he would've been phased--there went his chance to get out his aunt's house--but still, the reaction that followed was not as it should have been if there had been no books to recall the true reason.
But yes, 5 would have to be the best taking into account I've yet to see HBP. I'm definitely a fan of 1 and 2, because they do stick closely to the book, and because of this capture the essence of the book.
Call me picky, but I fail to see how 5 extra minutes (which is all it would've taken in some instances to add in the true spirit of the book) would matter much.
SalazarSlytherin | July 22, 2009 8:27 PM
Alfonso Cuaron's Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is by far the best HP movie yet. Its the most beautiful movie out of the 6 because everything is so detailed, artistic and real (the castle looks real and there are more trees/rocks).
I think David Yates is the worst director of the HP movies. The scenes in Order of the Pheonix and half-blood prince are way too "choppy" and Yates does not do a very good job in showing transitions between scenes (for example- in half-blood prince they don't show how Harry and Dumbledore get out of the cave_
Suzy | July 22, 2009 8:06 PM
I think the books are amazing considering the absolute absorption into such a fantasy world with such complex detail in every character, no mater how minor. The movies however have to have a real edge to them which the directors have to be aware of and is a little harder to do. The first two movies could be lost in the complete magic of this fantasy world and my kids cannot get enough of both these movies. The score for the first two are just pure genious and I hope Williams returns for the Deathly Hallows as I am sure this would just be the icing on the cake.
As for my favourites I would have to say as follows:
1. Prisoner of Askaban (perfect mix of dark & light)
2. Half Blood Prince (although it needed to focus more on horcruxes)
3. Goblet of Fire
4. Order of the Pheonix
5. Chamber of Secrets
6. Philosophers Stone
SynthiaNightWolf | July 22, 2009 7:47 PM
My favorite was the 2nd one. I liked the snow speeder battle at the beginning on Hoth.
Aaron F | July 22, 2009 6:31 PM
Heres the series in a nutshell:
1 and 2 were perfect adaptations of the books and captured the spirit of the characters' ages.
3 went above and beyond the first two because Cuaron is the best director the series has ever seen.
4 was a huge step backwards. Mike Newell's fumbling direction and the lack of John Williams score, save for Fiennes' Voldemort, made this the worst in the series.
5 was a step forward but still not nearly the magic of Cuaron or Columbus.
And finally 6, Half-Blood Prince is second best in the series because Kloves returned to adapt the screenplay and David Yates proved, as he did in the finale of 5, that he can shoot action scenes like nobody's business. HP6 truly captures the texture of the world with gorgeous cinematography. It almost seems like they took the cameras to the magical world this time around, and Yates is very good at building tension along with a masterful score by Nicholas Hooper that may even rival Williams.
cool hand luke | July 22, 2009 4:53 PM
Half Blood Prince and Azkaban are the best movies! Order of the Phoenix is my least favorite. I just saw the first movie again and it still holds up! Best books are 7, 6 and 3! Check out Tom Felton's (Draco) music at feltbeats.com, he is actually pretty talented. Very British but talented.
Bee | July 22, 2009 4:34 PM
The 1st and second movies are really underrated. Yes they were cute, but so were the books!!!! Columbus faithfully directed them and they were beauties to watch and experience. Other than that, the sixth movie blew my mind (minus the ending) it was scary and beautiful at the same time!!! I do believe, however, that the seventh and eight movies will blow all the others out of the water. If you've read the book, the movie probably can't help but be good.
Adrian | July 22, 2009 4:19 PM
Leaving aside the books which are all masterworks, in my opinion, movies 3 and 5 are beautiful and resonate. 1 is cute. 2 and 6 were just plain boring. And don't get me started on the mess they made of 4.
So, yeah, 3 and 5 are the best.
mj | July 22, 2009 3:49 PM
dont compare the books and movies. the books are without a doubt better than the movies.
movies:
6,3,4,5,1,2
books,
7,3,6,4,5,1,2
Ash | July 22, 2009 1:56 PM
I've read the books since I was in 3rd grade (I'm now 18). So I've basically grown up with Harry Potter. I never thought that the movies could match the intensity of the book, but this one blew me away. It is very hard to pick out what you should keep and throw away and I thought that it was better this time around. I'm very excited to see what they come up with for the 7th book. I'm so glad it is 2 movies, so we can hopefully have the whole story and everything will tie together just like in the book.
the one thing I would like to know though is what will the movie be rated!? With so many deaths there is no way it can be PG again....I don't even know about PG-13. We shall see....
Fav. HP movies in order:
1.Half-Blood Prince
2.Goblet of Fire
3.Sorcerer's Stone
4.Chamber of Secrets
5.Prisoner of Azkaban
6.Order of the Phoenix
Books in order:
1. Deathly Hallows
2. Half- Blood Prince
3. Goblet of Fire
4. Sorcerer's Stone
5. Order of the Phoenix
6. Chamber of Secrets
7. Prisoner of Azkaban
lunaticlupin | July 22, 2009 11:40 AM
3,6,1,4,2,5
bucky | July 22, 2009 11:22 AM
1. half blood prince
2. goblet of fire
3. philosphers stone
4. chamber of secrets
5. prisoner of azkaban
6. order of the phoenix
i know no one will agree but thats my fav to least
the 5th one sucked !!!!
tomriddle | July 22, 2009 10:11 AM
Books:
6,4,2,7,5,1
Movies:
4,2,3,1,5,6
MWT | July 22, 2009 8:28 AM
Having watched all the films in the past few days on DVD, as well as the latest in the cinema, I found the HBP to contain the best mixture of fantasy and realism - the magical elements never overshadowed the romantic or comedic aspects of the plot. I appreciated the smaller amount of action compared to the other films, because, truthfully, the entire plot of the Harry Potter series is more talk than action. Yet, I would have liked to see more dialogue between Harry and Dumbledore in the 5th and 6th films; I think this would have benefited the depth of the characters greatly. So, for me, the most recent film was the best. The first two films relied too heavily on the book and lacked the creativity of the others. The third films was very enjoyable; the plot was presented nicely, and we got to see a bit more personality in the characters. The fourth film really just went along with the fourth book, which was a tiny yet clever plotline overshadowed by the sort of magic my 7-year-old jaw dropped at the sight of the first two films. This, in turn, meant that the fourth film was actualyl quite boring. The fifth films was done reasonably well, but, as I mentioned before, conversation was lacking, causing a few of the characters to fall into the realm of nothingness.
Hopefully WB can combine all the terrific elements from the first six movies and filter out the bad ones for the final film.
LeslieGrace | July 22, 2009 2:02 AM
I have to agree and go with number 3 Prisoner of Azkaban and then the new one Half Blood Prince!
bennie new york | July 21, 2009 11:12 PM
I myself have a soft spot for Order Of The Pheonix. Alot of it's themes are quite relevent in the modern world, particularly the Bush-era United States. Is it the best Potter film? Probably not, but it's hard to say what is. The Prisoner Of Azkaban argument is a good one in what it meant for the series. You have the first two Potter films that just weren't very compelling, but Azkaban moved Potter in a darker, more interesting direction. I have yet to see Half-Blood Prince, so my opinion may change soon.
Dan S | July 21, 2009 5:50 PM
Along those same lines, I love in the recent films how Harry will just drop Voldemort's name without batting an eye, even though the supersticious adults around him think he's bringing their ruin. It reminds me of the current religious climate in America and its run-in with the newly chic atheist movement. For someone often thought of as the teacher's pet, Harry is pretty badass.
Dan S | July 21, 2009 5:47 PM
I really loved the fifth one. Is that "Order of the Phoenix?" I think so, but I'm not a huge Potter buff. I wasn't expecting much out of that movie, but I was working at a theater at the time, so i saw it for free. I was totally blown away by the dark and adult themes. I love the idea that the Wizards are sort of this useless old bureaucracy that doesn't believe Harry's doomsday predictions about Voldemort. Echoes of the climate change debate at the time. It struck me as the most anti-establishment "punk" film in the series so far, which was a remarkably cool way to go for a children's series about magic!
ThAt oNe PeRsoN | July 21, 2009 4:58 PM
I am a HArry Potter fan, nad love the books. I liked how Chirs did the first two films. Yes they were not as dark as the other ones, but i felt like he capture life of the movie well. Number three was okay, though i hate how it ended. And number four was the worst movie, it had so many loop holes and stuff. Number 5 was okay. Number 6 was good, though it left and rearanged stuff.
grandpuma | July 21, 2009 4:46 PM
the books get better as they go so deathly hallows is the best but as far as movies the rank is:
1 Order of the Pheonix
2 Prisoner of Azkaban
grandpuma | July 21, 2009 4:44 PM
3 Goblet of Fire
4 Chamber of Secrets
5 Half Blood Prince
6 Sorcerer's Stone
SRRY but the Half Blood Prince doesnt follow the book at all and doesnt have enough action 4 me
dave | July 21, 2009 4:03 PM
i think hray potter's a pretty cool guy. eh kills muggles and doesnt afraid of anyone.
also, goblet of fire.
merlot34 | July 21, 2009 3:42 PM
As an adult reading and viewing these films, I believe the first book and movie are critical to the success of this series. I'm disappointed to see Sorceror's Stone ranked last for the best film by so many others. Come on, watch it as if you're 11 years old yourself. Don't you see the magic, the amazement of Harry as he goes from the Muggle world of the Dursleys to the wizarding world of Hogwarts--what's not to love in that? It's captured brilliantly by Chris Columbus, plus the soundtrack is magical. Those first two films are really quite good, people, if you would only look at them from an 11 and 12 year-old perspective. (Doesn't anyone remember what it is like being a kid?) As for the others, I personally thought #3 way too dark and wierd, and didn't like how much of a shock it was after the first two. GoF was okay, but David Yates' Order of the Phoenix was great, and am looking forward to seeing HBP this weekend.
KRFan | July 21, 2009 3:40 PM
Nice English LRQ.
LRQ | July 21, 2009 2:37 PM
In terms of film Azkaban is the Goblet is for far the best film who dosen't enjoyed that film?
yesplease | July 21, 2009 1:08 PM
By far, David Yates captures the spirit of Harry Potter better than any of the previous directors. He brought real cinematic clout to the fifth and sixth books, despite their content being the least movie script friendly of the series. In Half Blood Prince, practically all of the action is saved for the last few chapters of the book. Yates brilliantly keeps the film going with the most excellent quidditch scenes to date, attacks on the muggle world only mentioned in passing in the book, etc. Order of the Phoenix is also one of the longest books, and one of the most complicated, dealing almost primarily with the petty world of magical politics. So, Yates had his work cut out for him, and he delivered with grace, power, and stunning visuals.
While the first two films are resolutely aimed for the child audience (as were the books), Prisoner of Azkaban did take a darker turn, yet I felt that Cuaron's interpretation of Azkaban was far too stylized. Being a huge fan of his other work, I found his style was so strongly present in Azkaban that it interfered with the story itself. I would also go so far as to argue that Cuaron had the easiest go of any of the directors, as Azkaban is the most movie-adaptation friendly book in the series, being moderate in length and having considerately more depth to the story than the first two books.
That said, Goblet of Fire, though definitely one of the most action packed books of the series, was a campy, ridiculous mess. Though Fiennes' interpretation of Voldemort was spot-on and fantastically chilling, it was the one bright (or sufficiently dark) spot in a film that truly fell short of the world created by Rowling in Goblet of Fire.
All things considered, from aesthetics to acting to scripting, I would give top honors to either of Yates' contributions to the series. If he keeps it up, the last two films are bound to satisfy the most insatiable Potter fans.
nonwatched | July 21, 2009 12:42 PM
just watch the movie and get over it. whats the point. it already beat previous records.
Anonymous | July 21, 2009 11:46 AM
I think, in general, people are way too hard on these movies for not following the story correctly. Not only do the "hollywood fucks" have to fit hundreds of pages of beautifully written narrative and dialogue into a small time space, they have to do it in such a manner that translates visually. There is a huge difference between reading a book and watching a movie. Books contain so many details and intricacies that are extremely difficult to convey on film. And obviously they want to make money. No one is going to risk profit for integrity. But maybe you should give them a bit of a break, or make your own damn version. I think they do very well with the time they are given.
Anthony | July 21, 2009 11:42 AM
Half Blood Prince was the best one yet, but the story could have been told better.
Cody | July 21, 2009 11:37 AM
It's humorous the fourth film should be mentioned in such a complimentary manner, as, among my ilk, the awfulness of that movie is a running joke. What, with the inaccurately coercive Robbie Coltraine being casted for the gentle and supportive role of Dumbledore, the almost absent feeling of Hogwarts being a school, and by far the worst bit of acting we've seen from the three protagonist youngsters, that film is one of the most disappointing of the past decade, particularly in contrast to the fantastic book it attempts to reflect.
Mandy | July 21, 2009 10:55 AM
Definitively Prisoner of Azkaban, despite Half Blood Prince being my favorite book and despite enjoying the film i must say the movie is far from being the best or even good not only as an adaptation but as a movie itself too, while Alfonso left out important things in his adaptation PoA still worked as a whole and was an entertaining well made movie while Half Blood Prince has serious plot holes and sacrificed potentially good scenes for romance and 'action' that didn't even work well on screen, the infamous burrow scene they promoted so much in trailers? boring with no impact whatsoever if you're adding this kind of scene at least make it memorable, Harry and Ginny? Harry had more chemistry with the walls of Hogwarts than he did with Ginny in this film
N | July 21, 2009 10:54 AM
I read HBP book long time ago,,, and i forgot many important things ( like Half Blood Prince).So i thought instead i will watch the movie and remember everything. After watching the movie(HBP). They didnt show anything about the Half Blood Prince,,, So i still dont remember anything. I dont even know what is the Half Blood Prince. I guess i have to read the book again and leave watching the boring movie.
Gary | July 21, 2009 10:52 AM
Those two movies (Prisoner of Azkaban and Goblet of Fire) are by far the best of the series. Half Blood Prince has great funny bits and the rest is totally flat with no emotional involvement and no dramatic tension.
Eijnar Amadeus | July 21, 2009 9:38 AM
For me, the list would go something like this;
1. Prisoner of Azkaban
2. Order of the Phoenix
3. Half-Blood Prince
4. Goblet of Fire
5. Chamber of Secrets
6. Sorcerer's Stone
Patch | July 21, 2009 9:23 AM
I love the first 2 because they stayed true to the books. However, I have to agree with Travers on Prisoner of Azkaban. It's also my favorite book on the series. Not only was the movie visually enthralling, but the story-telling was accurate. Cuaron translated it perfectly on film. and, of course, Gary Oldman was amazing in it. I cried like a little bitch after reading the 5th book because I knew he was gonna be out of the films after that. Hahaha
Harv | July 21, 2009 8:53 AM
Likes this one the least of the series. Visually I liked it, but in terms of telling the story I think it failed.
cynic | July 21, 2009 8:44 AM
Does anyone think these hollywood fucks actually listen to us? Does anyone think they care about the integrity of story/plot/character? No. They only want to make money and it's impossible for them to lose thanks to JK Rowling's brilliant writing.
Darkskeleton | July 21, 2009 1:41 AM
I'll be seeing it tomorrow but I never even finished the first book. I guess I just don't have the patience to read several hundred pages.
Johnny Ray | July 21, 2009 1:38 AM
Harry Potter Franchise Keeps Getting Better And Better, My Favourite Harry Potter Movie Is Always Last One But Couple Bitches About This New Movie Is How Intensely Serious The Franchise Has Got ! This Movie ( Harry Potter And Half Blood Prince )Needs Few More Running Gags To Break Mood Like Bring Back Headless Nick And Screaming Myrtle, Those Two Guys Rule !!! :-)
distraction | July 21, 2009 12:33 AM
#1 and #2
Gryffin | July 21, 2009 12:08 AM
HBP was my favorite book until the last book came out, so you will understand how disappointed I am by the film. The movie's plot was so chopped up that I can't see how anyone who hasn't read the book will understand what is going on. All my favorite parts (and most important parts)of the book were just left out as if they were not as important as Lavender Brown. PLEASE Warner Brothers, do not screw up the last two movies.
surya | July 21, 2009 12:02 AM
i think the current movie,harry potter and the half blood prince is the best among the series.the character are matured and the way this film was directed is magnificent.i also saw that draco malfoy is not really evil and this time he really have my sympathize .well,the part of dumbeldore died is not really good,but it does make me cry.after all,i can feel magic happen in this movie and make me forget my disappointment if two of the ho previous movies
Amy | July 21, 2009 12:00 AM
Overall this was a good film, and I love how much the actors have grown into their characters. Michael Gambon's performance of Dumbledore was greatly improved(something that had annoyed me since he started in the series). But being a huge fan of the books I inevitably had issues in the film(I know the movie is never as good as the book and accept it to a certain extent). I took issue with the Ron & Hermione romance being taken too far in this film (it's in DH) to the detriment of the Ginny & Harry romance which is most prevalent in HBP! Also they left out key key information that is essential to the plot of the next book and I found the ending was disappointing.
vega123 | July 20, 2009 11:41 PM
im going with travers, azkaban is the best, alfonso's directing is instant dark magic.
KB | July 20, 2009 10:31 PM
I loved...Prisoner of Azkaban...closely followed by Goblet of Fire...but I have to say...I loved the first movie and it is what made me pick up the books and start reading them! =)
KB | July 20, 2009 10:28 PM
The 6th movie was good if you've never read the books...I loved the humor from the romantic part...but felt they left out key moments between Harry and Dumbledore...not to mention the end of the movie was a big disappointment...they should of portrayed the end with the fight scene...and I really wanted to see Dumbledore's funeral and the Phoenix cry! This movie seemed to jump alot...which I would of been okay with...had they stuck the ending...but I felt the cinematography was fantastic...and I loved the overall movie...I am just hoping that the last two stick a little more closely to the book!
mildly entertained | July 20, 2009 9:16 PM
hum-hah... I thought that HBP was so-so. Certainly one of the most breathtakingly beautiful movies, but I honestly want to give the set designer credit and not Disapointing David Yates. The last two films have been my absolute least favorites, although I do maintain appreciation no matter what the film is like cause i get to watch my dishy Daniel. Not only can I not possibly see how Harry is going to make some of the connections in the 7th movie, but how dare they add a scene not remotely portrayed in the book and sacrifice one of the best battle scenes in the series (at least in my head). The way Dumbledore went out was also a complete joke. You are trying to tell me that a great wizard such as he who moments before had cast a ring of fire for protection is not going to be able to block a simple spell. Should have stuck to the master-piece that is Jo's writing. I definitely think it was a step up from the monstrosity that was OoTP. Can we say BORING until the last 5 minutes. And Dolores was no where near evil enough. I can't say that I understand everyone's hate of Chris Columbus. The first two movies actully had magic in them not to mention great soundtracks. And now we come to the best of the series. PoA and GoF definitely bring the wizarding world to life and while I was disapointed with how much of number 4 was omitted, it was still action and magic packed. PoA takes the cake for me. Gary Oldman is my favorite actor to date, and he was perfectly brilliant. The darkness was so rich it transcended to feeling. I just wish they would chuck D.Y. and bring back Alfonso. And not because of who he is as someone earlier acused us all of, but because he gets us and what we demand as loyal fans.
Scarface | July 20, 2009 7:35 PM
The best Harry Potter film? While only the kid friendly, first two films disapoint (their not terrible, just somewhat lame which is completely director Chris Columbus's fault and not the actors'fault) the films there on have been amazing. While the 3rd is great and a huge improvment from Chris Columbus's fantasy(f**k off Chris) I would have to go with The Half Blood Prince, followed by Goblet of Fire (Ralph Fienns keep it up!),then Order of the Phoenix, and then Prisoner of Azkabam. I have high expectations for the last film (films) and I pray to god it delivers.
Half Baked Prince | July 20, 2009 7:34 PM
This film is atrocious. It's not the fault of the actors, rather the morons who were allowed to ruin Rowling's book and remove so many crucial moments. These films have gotten progressively worse, each time due to writers. Stick with the original script, written in the books.
ranting and raving | July 20, 2009 7:14 PM
In terms of cinematography and acting HBP was a blast.
My mother brought the first book in the series home and told me that "it was going to be a big hit." I was 11 and thought she was crazy. Years later the final book came out and I have a picture of myself and best friend wearing the free specs from B&N. They been a part of my life for quite awhile.
HBP, to me, was very disappointing. I'm not looking for spot on spot action but you can't add a scene in the middle because you want to blow something up. Were viewers really supposed to be afraid that the death eaters were going to kill Harry and Ginny with an hour left in the movie? Then that same moment that was supposed to be so intense and show how no one's safe is never mentioned the rest of the movie. Forgive me but if "showing no one is safe" was their true intention they've either been blinded by the light or someone else made that decision.
Beyond that blazing decision they chose to change two other things that I found fault with. 1. Where and how the HBP's book is hidden. 2. Where and how Dumbeldore dies and Harry's involvement. Things that I feel effect character development and plot in book 7.
Walking out of the theater I felt lied to and I actually found myself bored at parts. I'm amazed that other fans don't seem bothered.
Ranting aside--I have found (until now) that I loved all the movies. However, I think I could watch the first one over and over. It's the way I imagined it.
david | July 20, 2009 7:05 PM
I thought the the movie was really good,me being a big fan of the books.I've read all seven and Deathly Hallows is by far my favorite book,with Prisoner of Azkaban being my favorite movie.But HBP really did focus on the romance.I hated that they took out the battle at the end,an after all wasn't the main reason for draco letting in the death eaters,to have them all fight at the end a little? It was dumb not to put the memory of Voldemort stealing the Ring from Marvolo Gaunt seeing as that was how Harry made the connection that he was a descendant to the 3 brothers who were the original owner of the deathly hallows.
Jake | July 20, 2009 6:18 PM
The third film is far and away the closest to following the book... which is why I think it is the best movie. After the third one I feel that none of the others really resemble the books. OoTP was relatively close, but it was my least favorite book, and I was still not fond about the movie. HBP, in my opinion, was a good movie, but an awful portrayal of the books. The purpose of the book was for Harry to learn of Voldemort's past, and find out how to defeat him. Things like the blossoming romances were intended to just be extras added on to keep the book flowing, but not as a main focus. In the movie, however, it seemed as though they focused far more on romance then on Tom Riddle's past, and horcruxes. I don't see how they are going to have Harry destroy the horcruxes in the next movie when they didn't do anything as far as revealing what the horcruxes may be. There was no detail about Riddle's focus on power and purity, and how Harry is supposed to figure these things out, without the help of Dumbledore or being able to see memories procured by Dumbledore, is beyond me.
I would also say that the burning of the burrow was completely unnecessary, and ridiculous. And the elimination of the battle scene at the end was also a huge let down.
DZ | July 20, 2009 6:12 PM
I was a big lover of the harry potter books until I hit the sixth book - at that point I had become a high schooler who was interested in other pursuits, so I never read the 6th or 7th books...
My friends took me to see HBP at midnight, and the movie rekindled my love of the wizarding world. I immediately snatched up the 7th book and finished it and now cannot get enough of Harry Potter. I remember really lovign the 3rd as well... but if its any indicator if the films power, HBP really brought back the love to someone whose last connection with potter was in the 7th grade.
JP | July 20, 2009 6:08 PM
Sorry, you shouldn't gloss over what a disappointing bomb that "Bruno" turned out to be. I called it two weeks ago that most people who were fans of "Borat" will see through the empty pranks of Sasha Baron Cohen.
To answer your question, I haven't seen #6 yet. I'm going to say "Order of the Phoenix". I think this is the movie that starts to deliver on the promise that this series appeal to all ages. The first four movies were entertaining children movies, but they lack any serious heart and pathos for adults. "Order of the Phoenix" had a timely theme about beauracracy trying to control and spin important information at all costs. When I get a chance to see #6, I might change my mind on the best. From the look of the movie and all the little things about the sixth book that I've been spoiled on, I think this is going to be the best movie so far in the series.
HBP was Fantastical! | July 20, 2009 5:52 PM
PoA is definitely the best one. It is the truest to the book, and it was when they first started getting older and more mature. It was also such a big departure from the first two films. It was wonderfully dark and fantastical. and Hermione punches Draco, how made of awesome is that? GoF actually was the first one that left me seething from anger and disappointment coming out of the theater. It was the first of the bigger books and they left SO much out. It took me three years to even watch it a second time. I've since accepted it for what it is though. OotP was my favorite book, and I was really sad with how much was left out. but I have to say that HBP was FANTASTIC, my favorite one after PoA. It was the first time since GoF that I didn't leave disappointed. I laughed, I cried, I was thoroughly enveloped in the movie and not concentrating on everything that was wrong. Tom Felton was FANTASTIC. He definitely stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the ballpark in this one. and Rupert of course is always supermegafoxyawesomehot <3 Maybe it was because my expectations were so low, but I absolutely loved it. (Except for the burning down of The Burrow... I mean, WTF? That was an unnecessary addition. and they could have focused a bit more on the horocruxes. They are going to be a HUGE part of the next two films.)
carolann | July 20, 2009 5:36 PM
I thought the movie was boring as hell. At least the others were more exciting to watch then this one. I was glad when it was finally done. I give it a thumbs down.
Jovi | July 20, 2009 5:11 PM
I can't really pick just one that is my favorite. I like each of them. I did feel that important stuff was left out of the 6th movie. I realize that as a screen writer, you can't possibley put everything into the movie that is in the book. My big problem was that they left important things out and put in scenes that were never in the book. I don't feel that they showed enough of what the 6th book is really about and that is learning about Voldermort's past, and although I found it very entertaining, they were more focused on the love triangles in this movie, than on anything else. I still enjoyed it though, and can't wait for the final two to come out.
thebossfan0328 | July 20, 2009 5:03 PM
1. Goblet of Fire (He fights a dragon on a broomstick!!!)
2. Order of the Phoenix (Dumbledore vs, Voldamort)
3. Prisoner of Azkaban (Fav Potter director)
4. Half Blood Prince
5. Chamber of Secrets
6. Sorcerer's Stone
Donald Couvillion | July 20, 2009 4:42 PM
Harry Potter has meant many hours of entertainment for me. I read all the books and have seen all the movies so far. What is lacking in The Half Blood Prince is a confrontation with the Dark Lord. Somehow, Draco vs. Dumbledore with an intervention by Snape is just no match for Potter vs. Voldemort!
There is so much expository material in The Half Blood Prince that is essential to terminating the series. Dumbledore has to die (and that is heartbreaking.) Snape had to fulfill his oath and save Malfoy. The movie leaves us believing that Potter will pursue the cowardly Snape in the next series. Of course, that will not be necessary.
The setup in The Half Blood Prince reads well as a book but is awkward and somewhat less than exciting as a movie.
Hats off to the film makers. The cinematography was frequently breathtaking. Ron's defensive play in the quidditch match offered some welcomed levity. The musical score was lush and the special effects were brilliant.
Overall, I liked the movie. It was not the best Potter movie by any means. Both Prisoner of Askaban and The Order of the Phoenix soared above Half Blood. I look forward to the two part conclusion. There are some amazing cinimatic opportunities to come.
Liz | July 20, 2009 4:25 PM
I despised the first two Columbus entries - so I won't count those. My favourite by far is the third film. For one thing I'm a huge Oldman fan. The few moments they had together in the film (Harry and Sirius) were so wrought with feeling that it established both the loss Harry felt at losing a father and the joy he experienced in regaining a Godfather. This film was so fantastic that the loss of Black in the fifth film was so thoroughly felt. I think Cuaron did such a beautiful job in capturing the atmosphere and of course the budding relationship between Remus and Harry as well. There was nothing wasted, and no endless repetition. For the first time in this series - the darkness, devastation and isolation Harry experienced were really explored. I really wish the franchise had brought Cuaron back for the last few. Although I did like the fourth, fifth and sixth film - they just cannot compare to the third installment.
goodnotgreat | July 20, 2009 4:21 PM
just because cuaron directs one of the harry potter films doesnt make it the best one so i dont understand why everyone assumes it is
johnnyboy | July 20, 2009 4:17 PM
its between half-blood price and prisoner of azkaban. i guess the former because i've never been more sucked into the world of harry potter before.
siriusblack | July 20, 2009 4:11 PM
the scene in POA where sirius confronts harry and co at the end was very satisfying to me..and so i think that's why i favour POA above the others.i still haven't seen HBP,so we'll see
.)
Stevie | July 20, 2009 3:29 PM
I liked the 4th one alot. The problem with 4, 5, 6 are thebooks are so detailed and precise ( and long) that you can't capture that in a movie.
hdbngr63 | July 20, 2009 3:03 PM
It's close between Half-Blood Prince and Order of the Phoenix, but I think I have to go with Phoenix. Though it's the longest book crammed in the shortest movie, David Yates brings out the dark and terror that the series has come to known, and the climactic wizard battle is exhilarating. Can't wait for Deathly Hollows
Megan | July 20, 2009 2:54 PM
The David Yates films are amazing!!! The Order of the Phoenix, for me, is the best film yet. I could watch it a hundred times and get up to press play again!
emash1994 | July 20, 2009 2:50 PM
I really did not like Prisoner of Azkaban. I did not like the feel of the movie that Alfonso Cuaron made it out to be. Goblet of Fire was good but skip half of the book in the movie. The same problem with Order of the Phoenix. I would have to say that my favorite so far is Half-Blood Prince. It stuck really well to the book, only leaving out a few little things that did not really matter to the plot or the plot to the next movies in the series.
jay | July 20, 2009 2:41 PM
I must agree. Prisoner of Azkaban was my favorite. Being a huge fan of the novels, my problem with 4 - 6 is more that so much was chopped from the books.
I mean, you expect that with any film adaptation, but those were extreme. Now, do we fault the directors or screen play authors for this? No, I think they did their best with what they could (JK Rowling made the latter novels so long, its hard to include all that into the movies), although I thought Order of the Phoenix was, daresay, mild compared to the dramatic extent felt in the book, with half-blood prince coming in second for what I feel is so much different as far as the emotion felt by the story.
With the death scenes in 4 and 5 in the book, I felt like I lost a close relative. The same scenes in the movie made me feel like I lost a favorite pet. The difference was distinct to me. Really, I thought 6 was my favorite for the story line and some of the CGI, but all in all, POA presented a better story in a more captivating way.
What I'm saying i suppose is that IMHO, Prisoner of Azkaban was a fabulous movie even if there had never been a book, whereas the latter movies are good because of the tie they represent to the books.
Veleveetahead | July 20, 2009 2:38 PM
I agree that the third was my favorite even though the ones after were good two. I like to ignore the first two movies. The third was so dark in mood and vibrant in visuals. I loved it.
Zach Peters | July 20, 2009 2:31 PM
As a big fan of the novels, I’d say the two David Yates movies are the best yet. After a bloated and clumsily directed Goblet Fire by Mike Newell, Yates breathed new life into the franchised with his PG-13 rated Order of the Phoenix.
Yates is also the first director who seems to understand his characters. Alan Rickman is now phenomenal, playing Snape like an actual person instead of a caricature. And we finally see Michael Gambon as a believable Dubmbledore for the first time.
I hope Yates has the balls to let the last two movies get creepy as hell. It will make the payoff in the end that much sweeter.
Nicko | July 20, 2009 2:25 PM
You see, I'm having some trouble here. I'm not too into the movies. The fourth movie destroyed the fourth book. Voldemort is alot scarier in my head.
My favorite of the books is a tie between Prisoner of Azkaban(3) because it has nothing to do with Voldemort, and Deathly Hallows(7) because it is sooo EPIC.
It is now a tie between the third movie(POA) and the latest Half-Blood Prince.
The new movie (being a HUGE fan of the books) dealt out few disappointments, was dark, and genuinely funny. In (6) all three of the main characters matured (thank god Radcliffe gets it now) and are awesome actors now. Tom Felton (Draco) put on a dark twisted role... but you feel sorry for him. He did very well.
Can't wait for the 2 part finale!
Nicko Alexander
rage_cage66@yahoo.com
A A Montalto | July 20, 2009 1:49 PM
Number 3(POA) was the movie that made me start READING the books. I'd watched 1 and 2 but Azkaban got me hooked. There hasn't been a better on since either...
JordanC | July 20, 2009 12:09 PM
I agree- The 3rd set the tone for the rest of the series, and is the most artfully directed of them all.
4,5, and 6 have gradually moved away from the 'magic' of the series. It's almost like they see maturity and fantasy as two exclusive entities. But Cuaron saw them as complimentary, and built a very dark and humorous world upon that belief.
Matt | July 20, 2009 12:00 PM
Number 3, since it set the tone for the next ones, making it less of a fantasy ride, and more of a realistic struggle set in a magical world.
destroyerofworlds | July 20, 2009 11:52 AM
The third film in the Harry Potter franchise by Alfonso Cuaron is by far the darkest and most magical installment in the series. Cuaron deserves special credit for moving the Harry Potter series from its safe and friendly roots to something a little more darker and mature. All in all the film is a clompete step up from the past two Chris Columbus films and it paved the way for more serious and mature Potter films that followed. Hands down the best film in the Potter saga.