Harry Potter, revisited

I recently re-watched the entire Harry Potter series of films--in chronological order, of course. I have enjoyed the stories and the films since they came out (I think I saw the all of them in the theater, too) but hadn't done the full eight-in-a-row experience before.

Going in, I anticipated that I would like the last four films most (directed by David Yates) because they are more complex, political, philosophical, and dark. I also thought my favorite film would be Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. It's true that I really enjoyed that one but I can no longer claim it as my favorite. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince has taken over as my favorite--just so much going on and layers of mystery.

I wasn't surprised that I rated the last film--Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II as the best quality film. The visuals and acting, in my opinion, are at their best in this one. And it's hard not to appreciate and get excited by how all the mysteries are answered and the final battle completes the story. I've included below a few moments I enjoyed in each film (plus individual ratings).

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Chris Columbus, 2001)

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Rating: Q=6, P=7 / Can't Get Enough

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This one is heartwarming-Harry finally feels like he belongs and has a home. His relationship with Hagred makes me teary every time. My favorite scene is when he gets his wand from Mr. Ollivander.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Chris Columbus, 2002)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

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My least favorite film, but a very important story in the series. People becoming petrified and the possibility that a dark lord is returning is really frightening. This story also perfectly captures what it feels like to be 12, I think. Rumors and gossip and clicks, etc. abound. I think my favorite is the first use of poly-juice potion to interrogate Malfoy and his cronies.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Alfonso Cuaron, 2004)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

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I love any story that manipulates time, and JK Rowling really made a masterful story around time travel. The Marauders map is definitely the best part of this one ;) And the introduction of both Professor Lupin and Sirius Black.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Mike Newell, 2005)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

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So many fantastic moments! Figuring out each of the tests of the tournament is fun to watch, so are the actual tests. The relationship between Ron and Harry is tested and it is difficult to watch, but very realistic. As is the painful teenage dance. The end of the tournament is the hardest scene for me to watch of any Harry Potter film.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (David Yates, 2007)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Can't Get Enough

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For years this was my favorite of the series because I think that 15/16 is the most interesting age. And, of course, the perfect age for rebellions. Losing trust and then regaining it is a great thing to behold. My favorite scenes are in the Room of Requirement. This film is also important because of how Rowling shows the Nazi/fascism that unfolds as a result of fear. It is particularly eerie watching it now in 2018...

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (David Yates, 2009)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Can't Get Enough

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My new favorite of the series, for many reasons: apparating, the Half-Blood Prince's potion book, more mysteries involving Snape and Dumbledore, Liquid Luck, introduction of Horcruxes, much more of Harry's past revealed.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 (David Yates, 2010)

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Rating: Q=7, P=6 / Can't Get Enough

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This one moves slowly but is full a interesting moments and some revelations, too. The story of the deathly hallows is a beautiful sequence--love that animation.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (David Yates, 2011)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Can't Get Enough

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A marvelous conclusion to the mysteries that began in the first installment. And arguably the best visuals of the series, too. I loved the "limbo" sequence when Harry talks to Dumbledore at the very clean King's Cross Station.

--Don't understand the ratings? Click here