Classic Review #54: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Available on Netflix

David Yates made a decisive arrival to the directorial chair of the Harry Potter series with its fifth instalment, Order of the Phoenix, which proved to be a spot he never relinquished. Much of that is due to the impression he made with this film, which had the good fortune of following the bloated Goblet of Fire but nonetheless distinguishes itself via its more adult tone, with underlying themes include political interference in educational matters, ensuing teen rebellion, and the way our perception of events is shaped by the media.

Given that Yates directed the critically acclaimed political series State of Play, it is perhaps not a surprise that both he and screenwriter Michael Goldenberg (here standing in for series stalwart Steve Kloves) are able to balance such everyday themes with J.K. Rowling’s altogether more magical world, but it remains an impressive feat all the same. The introduction of Slawomir Idziak as director of photography also coincides with the Order of the Phoenix being an aesthetically richer film than its predecessor, although the escalating stakes of the series means there is still a need for a plethora of visual effects, with over 1,400 of them shot on this occasion.

Equally as impressive is Daniel Radcliffe, who gives his most dramatically powerful performance as the titular protagonist, excelling in a more challenging role that sees him juggle the responsibilities of facing his fears and assuming a leadership role amongst his peers. That being said, he is almost upstaged by Imelda Staunton’s deliciously villainous performance as Ministry of Magic stooge Dolores Umbridge, with Evanna Lynch and Helena Bonham-Carter also making memorable debuts as Luna Lovegood and Bellatrix Lestrange respectively.

Indeed, it’s arguable that the Order of the Phoenix doesn’t receive the credit it deserves amongst series devotees, it being a far more engrossing affair than the majority of what came before it.

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Classic Review #53: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire