

The scene in the common room following the kiss between Harry and Cho was hysterical.


They have finally achieved the art of saying a lot without necessarily opening their mouths. They have come quite far in their acting abilities. I was actually quite impressed with Dan, Rupert and Emma as well. :o) Imelda Staunton, as Umbridge, and Helena Bonham Carter, as Bella, have to be two of the BEST casting decisions that they have with regard to these films. My only complaint about her was that she wasn't on screen enough. Her voice, mannerisms and demeanor were amazing. Evanna Lynch could not have been more spot on as Luna. The thestrals were marvelous-eerie, but strangely peaceful creatures. On a positive note, the special effects were very well done. There wasn't enough Molly or Hagrid for me though. I miss the subtlety that Richard Harris brought to that role, and, while he wasn't dreadful in this one, I still believe that there are countless other well known actors in the UK that could have done this role better justice. I am NOT a fan of his portrayal of Dumbledore, but I guess he worked for this film simply because, for the majority of the story, he is supposed to be acting somewhat aloof towards Harry. One of their worst casting decisions, Michael Gambon, was actually tolerable in this one, for the most part. There were a few changes that made me frown at times, but as the story played out, it did make the film flow well. There were a few things that I felt could have made the story richer if they had been included, but I won't go into detail so I don't give away any of the film's changes. I knew there would be a lot of information left out. As a huge fan of the books, I still must be realistic. For the negative.there were, of course, MANY things that were omitted from the film. If you separate the film from the book, you won't be disappointed.
THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX MOVIE SERIES
The "experience" was lousy, but the film was good.IF you take it as a separate entity from the series of books. I actually was lucky enough to see this at a sneak preview on Monday.
