Based on the Novel is an Understatement

Rating: 7/10 (1 January 2009)

I can't believe that Order of the Phoenix was based on the 5th installment of the Harry Potter series. There have been complaints about what was cut from the book, but this is just mind blowing. To begin with, months before the movie's release I rushed to the book and reread it, couldn't wait to see my favorite parts on the big screen. As a child I'd originally read the book just picturing Ron's tottery attitude in the Department of Mysteries while being attacked by the brain. I wanted to watch him try out for the Quidditch team- "Weasley is our King", anyone? I'm sure I'm not the only one who couldn't wait to see Hermione's plans for the house elfs, he mention of Percy and his family issues? Snape's worst memories were what I'd really been waiting for. You can imagine my astonishment when I got that 2 minute snort or blurry fuzz.
Let's just say, I'd packed a wad of tissue paper in my pockets for this movie. Sirius' death scene was what killed me. He fell through the veil and it was over. Not even the slow motion clips of Harry, held back by Lupin, calling for him made my eyes water. I was looking for something dramatic. Sirius Black, Harry's only living family member, is dead. Can we get something better than a gasp and a rather fast moving demise?
Let's home Half Blood Prince isn't as big of a let down....