Great movie if you haven't read the book

Rating: 9/10 (13 August 2007)

I really love to read a book before seeing the movie. I also really wanted to finally see a Harry Potter movie in the theater (I usually wait until DVD). Since I was behind on reading, I spent about 4 weeks reading Harry Potter 4 then 5. They day after finishing Order of the Pheonix, I went to see the movie. I must say I was a bit disappointed.
For someone who has not read the Harry Potter series, nor intends to, I think it's a great movie. The plot plays out nicely, the acting is great, even the special effects were great (I especially love the fight between Dumbledore and Voldemort at the end). Daniel Radcliffe was EXCELLENT in this movie; he was so believable. Also, I don't think the casting director could have found anyone better to play Professor Umbridge.
I know that it would be impossible to fit almost 900 pages of wonderful literature into a 2 hour movie, but I guess I expected more. So many key factors were left out. I found myself hoping that the others in the theater would go back and read the book if they hadn't already to get the full picture.
Some examples of content left out that I felt should have been included: -Howler to Petunia Dursley and Dumbledore's explanation to Harry about why he must go "home" every summer. -Percy Weasley's severe lack of loyalty to the family -Hermione & Ron's promotion to prefect -Ron playing quiddich. Harry and the others being banned from quiddich. -The conversation with the centaurs that gave Hermione the idea to take Umbridge there.
Also, there were changes that misguided the plot. Several times, Dumbledore looked at, even spoke to Harry in the movie. In the book, Harry was completely ignored.
I know I went in expecting too much and that is why I am now disappointed. I still recommend this movie, but the book is far better (as always).