::A Geek in Korea::

It’s been a long time since there has was a blockbuster movie released that caught my interest. After seeing Spider-man 3 (Hated it.), and not being excited by the thought of even going to see Transformers, I was doubting that any movie this summer was going to get me in the theater. Well, other than The Simpsons movie.

I was listening to NPR:movies podcast, which is now my once a week source for finding out what is worth watching in the theaters. They talked about the reviews for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. I was surprised to hear that most of the people were exceedingly positive about the movie.

The book was the first in the series that I really disliked. It was very angst driven, what the kids like to call “emo“. Half the book was Harry being a complete dick to his friends. Then he would whine when Voldemort was bugging him in his sleep. “No one understands me!” Yeah, yeah, he’s a teenager. I get it.

While the book wasn’t my favorite, I’d say the film actually was the best of the series so far. It worked as an actual movie instead of feeling like a movie adapted from a book. There was no lame Scooby Doo style “twist” where someone reveals their evil plans just in time to be stopped by some pesky kids. For that, I’m thankful.

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Dolores Umbridge, the new “Professor of the Dark Arts” teacher, and all around bad person, was perfect. You remember that same uptight administrator at your school that just didn’t understand your angst.

Also, the kitten plates in her office? I was laughing the ENTIRE time a scene took place in that location. The juxtaposition of her cruel treatment of Harry while the cute kittens looked on in the background was great.

Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange? That’s PERFECT casting. Even if she only went around cackling and looking evil, she was perfect. I loved her interaction with Lucious Malfoy, who plays one evil mofo.

[/spoiler]

The film felt much more “grown up” and spent far less time on the charming things of the wizarding world. It’s more dark and brutal. Sure, there was angst, but it was very well acted.
I liked the direction the series is headed. After five films, I’m actually more excited about what’s to come on film, rather than the last book due out in a few days. I want to see the story finish with these actors as soon as possible. Waiting for the next two movies is going to be tough.

I’d recommend the movie for any fans of the film series, or books. It’s the best one yet!