Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) is the first Potter film for director David Yates, the man who would successfully helm the rest of Harry’s journey and beyond. Yates somehow does the impossible by competently turning the longest Potter book into the shortest film. Impressively, the result is a moving, relatable arc for Harry himself that still manages to build up the Wizarding World around him.
This will either be near the top or bottom of your Potter list it seems. Cards on the table, this is my favorite Potter book. Personally, I dig the vibe because it is the most “adult” story yet for Harry and his friends. As a result, our story matures as a frustrated Harry struggles with both inner turmoil and the political reaction to Voldemort’s return at the conclusion of Goblet of Fire. Some in the magic community do not believe Harry about Voldemort’s rise to power while others actively seek to discredit his name. This leads to Harry’s reputation withering away and the alienation he feels. To combat these threats, a secret organization (the Order of the Phoenix) is reactivated. Harry will have to step up as the leader of the Order and train his fellow students to be ready for the danger ahead.
I’ve always had a soft spot for moody characters (for whatever strange reason), and Harry certainly fits the bill in this film. He is angry, confused, and isolated. This bleeds over into his relationships with varying results. Yates really digs into Harry’s trauma, and Daniel Radcliffe nails it. Radcliffe has stated before that he believes it is his best performance, and I happen to agree. On that note, all of the growing child actors continue to shine and show you how much they truly understand their respective character motivations.
Speaking of acting, Phoenix introduces us to some fan-favorite characters, both good and evil. Imelda Staunton is pitch-perfect as the cruel, authoritative new headmaster of Hogwarts, Dolores Umbridge. This villain really gets under your skin because she is a timeless reminder that true monsters often appear unassuming. Helena Bonham Carter shines as the crazy Voldemort devotee, Bellatrix Lestrange. This film even further made me realize that J.K. Rowling was more than capable of writing credible, lasting threats for our heroes. Not everything is doom and gloom though. The enchanting Evanna Lynch is a solid addition as the eccentric but reliable Luna Lovegood. While not a new character, Gary Oldman continues to do a fantastic job fleshing out Sirius and Harry’s “father-son” relationship. Simply put, the Potter casting director knew what they were doing yet again.
Unsurprisingly, the film is brilliantly crafted. There's no shortage of beautiful costumes, intricately designed sets, realistic makeup, seamless visual effects, and a fitting musical score. Most impressively, lean film editing never rushes the narrative beyond what is necessary. The snap, crackle, and pop of the sound design really sell the magical elements. This world truly feels alive.
I think most would agree that the action-packed, emotional climax of the film is the most thrilling part. It is captivating because it meaningfully infuses eye-popping action with raw emotion. Seeing the Order step up as a team is a big step forward as our heroes become more independent. Obviously, we know from previous films that Harry, Ron, and Hermione are brave but seeing other students take action is necessary for this generation of wizards. The battle at the Ministry of Magic is both entertaining and tragic. My one "flaw" with this film truly is an opinion. I wish that some of the more physical fight-choreography had made it from the book, but the job still gets done.
I would argue that Phoenix contains the best scene in the entire series. Seeing the two most powerful wizards, Dumbledore and Voldemort, go toe-to-toe is a visual treat. Obviously, the filmmakers had a fun time shooting this physical duel, but the follow up is even better. Harry’s possession by Voldemort is so impactful because it is a battle of wills rather than spells. The entire film we’ve seen Harry suffer alone but now his friends and allies finally get to witness his pain with their own eyes. This is the breaking down of barriers others needed to see to truly be able to help Harry recover.
Harry’s line to Voldemort here is actually my favorite line in the entire series. He says to Voldemort implying his emotional attachments make him vulnerable, “You’re the weak one. And you’ll never know love or friendship and I feel sorry for you.” What makes Harry a hero is that he honestly wishes his enemy could understand why love is the better choice over hate. This much-needed moment of catharsis is exactly why Harry Potter resonates with me. There is power in numbers and navigating this dark world is much more manageable with your loved ones by your side.
Order of the Phoenix is an underrated entry that teaches that you don’t have to confront your demons alone. In the end, our protagonist chooses to focus on the good things he has in his life rather than allowing past trauma to further consume him. We’d all be wise to follow in his footsteps.
My rating is an A.
Click here for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire review.
Click here for Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban review.
Click here for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets review.
Click here for Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone review.
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