A great film - changing the story slightly to make a much better film - especially compared to Goblet of Fire

Rating: 8/10 (15 July 2007)

Warning Here Be Spoilers
Having read all the books and seen all the films I was pleasantly surprised by Order Of The Phoenix - especially after the debacle that was Goblet of Fire. The film does make quite a few changes from the book, however unlike no4 - which tried to tell the same story complete with gaping plot holes - this film instead rewrites the plot in such a way to make it engaging, exciting and slightly scary while still conveying Rowling's overall story.
On a more detailed note I must say that several performances were exceptional, especially GHelena Bonham Carter's - amazing!!!!! The effects were also of a good standard (if not the best Hollywood has to offer) and some things - such as a certain relation to a giant friend - were done better than I expected.
The film wasn't perfect and there were a few disappointments, most notably; a few bits of v. cheesy dialogue (mostly Harry's), the lack of explanation/evidencing of the Inquisitorial squad despite it being mentioned countless times and also the way Dumbledore is perhaps portrayed (through event not acting - yay for Michael Gambon)as being somewhat weaker than Rowling realises him (for those who have already seen the movie I am not dense and do realise he is protecting Harry - the glance as rubble falls on him and subsequent lessening of Dumbledore's attack, however the confrontation still seems to establish voldemort's superiority.
That said I thoroughly enjoyed the movie and count it both a worthy addition to the series and a true and exciting realisation of the book (on a par with No3) and well worth a watch. I count it a very good thing that the same director will be taking on The Half Blood Prince.