One of the best Potter films yet

Rating: 9/10 (15 July 2007)

I wasn't sure whether slightly inexperienced director David Yates could pull it off; after all, he is an unknown. I wasn't sure whether I would like such a short movie adapted from such a long book. Granted, the movie could've been a little better, but I was satisfied with it, and by the end, I was ready to see it all over again.
"Order of the Phoenix" is not like your typical Potter film (even the book is not exactly like your typical Potter story). It has emotional action, rather than physical action. It must have been daunting for the filmmakers taking on a project known for Quidditch matches and turning it into an emotional tour de force. The result: the most powerful Potter film made. I had never been exceptionally impressed with Daniel Radcliffe as an actor, but in this film, his acting commanded my respect and sympathy. He brought the distraught teen right from Rowling's pages to the cinema screen.
I must also comment that Nicholas Hooper's score for the film is one of the best in the Potter series, nearly rivaling John William's. Much livelier and gripping than Patrick Doyle's in "Goblet of Fire".
I liked how "Order" dealt with some of the teenage angst as well, such as love, emotional strife, and fighting. This film definitely did not overly focus on special effects. I was glad that there were a few comedic throw-ins here and there (most notably, Kingsley Shacklebolt's punchline to Cornelius Fudge).
Imelda Staunton was nearly brilliant, and her portrayal of Professor Umbridge was disgustingly delicious. I certainly hope she is nominated for an Oscar for this performance. In the book, I hated Umbridge passionately, but Staunton actually made me want to see more of her. That might be my only small complaint about Staunton: I didn't hate her character as much as when I read the novel. A great acting job, though, nonetheless.
Visually, "Order of the Phoenix" is stunning and beautiful, making Harry's world inviting. The headquarters for the Order, #12 Grimmauld Place, though, was not as seedy as I had imagined. I also preferred Alfonso Cuaron's version of the dementors in "Prisoner of Azkaban" than the ones in this movie.
Those hoping for some action will not be disappointed. The battle inside the Ministry of Magic is exciting, and the special effects here are incredible.
"Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" is a treat for fans of the movies: it has a great action sequence, as well as an emotionally-driven plot that "refined" cinema lovers will accept. Yates and the crew should be commended for taking such a hard book to adapt to theaters and making it into such a fine picture. My only complaints are that the beginning was lacking something (I can't put my finger on it) and that Michael Gambon needs to stop being an angry Dumbledore (gosh, how I miss Richard Harris!)There were also some plot details that weren't addressed in the film, including something important about Neville, and the story was a little rushed. And Nearly Headless Nick needs to come back, even if it is only visually. I look forward to seeing more of this cast, especially Radcliffe, Ralph Fiennes (Voldemort) and Evanna Lynch who played a likable, but strange, Luna Lovegood that fans of the books should appreciate. I hope Yates can refine his craft and make an even better film out of the 6th book... I can't wait.