Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Many reviews of Order of the Phoenix comment on the fact that the Harry Potter series is "growing up" and isn't "just for kids" any longer. I'm sure these comments will continue with every subsequent film, because it's a quick and easy thesis to hang an article on. In reality, the series "grew up" two movies ago when it changed hands from the auteur of Home Alone to Y tu Mama Tambien.

Nevertheless, David Yates brings a lot of stylistic flourishes we still don't quite expect from a big studio fantasy film. The film opens with obtuse shots, jump cuts, and handheld cameras, though it settles into a more traditional studio style as it progresses. I noticed this in Prisoner of Azkaban too - maybe the heavy CG of Hogwarts requires steadier camera work.

In any case, this is the third solid entry in the film series. My real qualm comes from the novel itself - it's a weird and unnecessary step between Voldemort returning and the world acknowledging it. Though Ralph Fiennes still looks creepy as hell sans nose, the Dark Lord isn't as frightening this time, and the battle between he and Dumbledore lacked any tension. Note to David Yates - old men fighting with magic sticks can look cool! See: Gandalf vs. Saruman.

These are minor points, and I look forward to Yates' adaptation of book six, a far superior and gut-wrenching novel.