lacks the joy and imagination of earlier films

Rating: Null/10 (23 July 2007)

The next chapter of the Harry Potter series begins with the gifted young wizard temporarily banned from Hogwarts for misuse of his power. When he finally does return, he tries to warn his classmates of visions signifying the return of the dark Lord Voldemort, but unfortunately his warnings are refuted by a bureaucratic new teacher who places a ban on all use of magic. Believing that he and his classmates may be in grave danger, Harry unites the Order of the Phoenix to prepare for a definitive battle against the treacherous Voldemort. The fifth installment of the series is enthusiastically performed but surprisingly uninspired; story isn't compelling enough to sustain the film's length, and there isn't much magic or adventure until the finale, but even then it's not very awe-inspiring. Die-hard fans of the series will probably enjoy seeing their favorite characters, but there isn't much to take in beyond that. **