A fantastic addition to a terrific series

Rating: 9/10 (9 January 2008)

In the previous film in the Harry Potter series, Goblet of Fire, revered headmaster Professor Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) says, "Dark and difficult times lie ahead". In Order of the Phoenix, they've certainly delivered on his prediction.
In my opinion, one of the main reasons for the success of the Potter films has always been the culmination of a intelligent and committed crew with a exceptionally talented cast. On these terms, Phoenix met all of my expectations, delivering sterling production values along with a great deal of soul and energy emitted from the terrific cast.
There are some moments which may disappoint or confuse viewers, but not so many as to leave you with a sour taste in your mouth. For viewers who haven't read the books, some plot points might be a little tricky to follow, but there aren't many of these moments, and you can easily catch up with the story during later events. Some characters may not have much screen time, but with excellent supporting actors such as David Thewlis (Professor Lupin), Brendan Gleeson (Mad-Eye Moody), Alan Rickman (Professor Snape) and Helena Bonham Carter (Bellatrix Lestrange) on board, they won't feel underwritten, at least until you've finished watching the film.
The team which deserves the most praise for this wonderful film is the team of director David Yates, writer Michael Goldenberg and star Daniel Radcliffe. They have channelled all of their efforts into making this a sleek, efficient and tremendously entertaining film for both book and film fans alike. Yates, in particular, does an astonishing job, seeing as this is his first motion picture, directing with great skill and visual flair.
Goldenberg has written a superb screenplay, which delves into the characters (especially Harry and his godfather, Sirius Black), producing complex, heartfelt and compelling results. Although he has missed out elements of the plot which would have made the story clearer, he mostly constructs a fluid and gripping story. He also includes several good moments of humour, which help to counter the growing darkness which leaks from almost every scene.
Radcliffe delivers a brilliant performance as the titular wizard. Harry's situation may be more fantastical than normal events, but Radcliffe's main skill is that he never lets the character slip into fantasy mode, acting with an incredible weariness and humanity. His character makes mistakes, and he has to deal with their consequences. In other words, this is Radcliffe's best performance in the series, and probably the best performance of his career so far.
Indeed, some of the most impressive moments in the film aren't the excellent wand battles or the moments which are based around the visuals, but the more quiet scenes. Two grand examples are the tapestry room scene between Harry and Sirius (which was extremely moving), and the moment near the climax of the film which sees Harry being tortured by Voldemort within his mind, which packed intelligent and haunting power. It is scenes like these which provide the necessary emotional link to the hero, and that is why they are so compelling.
The rest of the cast also delivers. Alongside Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson give great performances as Ron and Hermione, Gary Oldman brings Sirius Black (my favourite character in the books) to powerful and charming life, Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy, Bonham Carter's character and Ralph Fiennes as Voldemort make superb villains and Imelda Staunton is utterly despicable as Dolores Umbridge, a political messenger who attempts to take over the wizard school of Hogwarts.
Visually, the film is stunning. All of the creations are utterly convincing and well conceived (except perhaps Grawp, a childish, muddy giant who is a little too cute for my tastes). The spells that the pupils and adults use have a great range, from spells which cause light to spring from wands to spells which cause imminent death. There is also some cracking action, which I will not spoil for you.
Overall, Order of the Phoenix is a tremendous achievement, and one of the best films in the series thus far. If you haven't seen it by now, seek it out immediately!