Formidable Adaptation: book reader's review

Rating: 9/10 (11 August 2007)

Unlike some of the previous Harry Potter (HP) films, mostly uncompromising adaptations which visualised but failed to deliver the charm of the books to the big screen, 'Order of the Phoenix' (OotP) is a film at heart, borrowing from the book but also improvising to recreate the full range of emotions experienced while reading the book. Where the previous films butchered the plot and subplots, often mishandled the crucial moments and overly stepped into banal territory, OotP is oddly satisfying to watch.
OotP, book five, is the thickest book of the entire series. While the first three books were short enough to be adapted to film without neglecting too much (with a honourable mention to 'Prizoner of Azkaban'), book four, the 'Goblet of Fire', fell into the pitfall of becoming a synopsis of the plot, essentially cataloguing the significant events and being notably 'empty'. Thankfully, this film avoids that very pitfall, delivering a fully functioning film that delivers a story full of wonder and adventure that is so characteristic of J. K. Rowling's creation.
Of particular improvement is the overall superior performance by the entire cast. While the adult characters have always been at least adequately portrayed, younger ones (including the main trio) have been mediocre. However, aging (I assume) seems to have greatly improved their performances. Radcliffe does a better-than-ever job of portraying Harry's troublesome journey through adolescence. Evanna Lynch, portraying the dreamy Luna Lovegood, also does an exceptional job and almost outshines her fellow school-mates. Also noteworthy is the near-perfect depiction of the horribly hateable, not to mention pink, Dolores Umbridge by Imelda Staunton. The rest of the Order members, even those that get little screen time, are also well done.
The film is an audio and visual feast. The CGI work is commendable: everything from thrilling magical duels to the unveiling of number 12, Grimmauld place and the adorable and funny Grawp. The soundtrack is also praiseworthy. The characteristic HP 'theme' from the first Chris Columbus film is not overused and the emotional sequences are well accompanied by emotive music. Even the depiction of simple elements such as London, Privet Drive and Hagrid's hut have been improved, making it all seems more realistic rather than pure fantasy to be forgotten upon leaving the cinema.
OotP is a very enjoyable film and many HP readers and non-readers alike are bound to be entertained. To the readers, my advice is to overlook the little 'issues' here and there and to simply enjoy it. Unfortunately, a few non-readers may find themselves confused. This is the intricate problem with adapting the complex book into a mere two hours and eight minutes, and only so much blame can be placed on the film creators. Either way, I strongly recommend you read the book(s) before watching the film. The books are and have always been far superior, and to watch the films first only spoils the books. Overall, this is a very formidable adaptation of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix as the series becomes more mature, just like Harry, and darker, with the rise of Who-Must-Not-Be-Named to power. The best HP film so far, this one should not be missed.