First Review of Order of the Phoenix, from Chicago Screening
We've received several reports in the past few days about an early screening of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Chicago; this is consistent with the timing and location of previous early screenings of other HP films. One reader noted that the movie looked like it had about 70 percent of special effects finished, and called it by far her favorite HP film. Reader Carlos sent us a detailed summary, which is below (and says if you ask questions in the comments, he'll answer). He gives the movie 3.5 stars and notes it's currently about 2:20 minutes; highlights, he says, include Evanna Lynch's turn as Luna and Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix. (If you went to the screening and want to share, email us!)
Please be reminded that SPOILERS abound in this desсriрtion (not too many, actually, but we warn you just in case)...if you don't mind that, continue reading... (and if you're on the text only site, better close the window now).
"Yesterday, Christmas came very late, as I was fortunate enough to attend an advance screening of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
As I duck the volley of butterbeers thrown my way, I have to say I was rather impressed. The version I saw was not a finished product in that some of the soundtrack and CGI hadn't been completed in time for the screening, but what you do get is a version of the movie that's about 85% complete. The dialog and final edits seem to be complete so you get a film that was easy to follow. The CGI that wasn't complete usually centered on creatures that were rendered as either animatics or rough versions of the finished product.
The movie opens with the audience being introduced to some of the Order of the Phoenix, including Tonks, who's being played by Natalia Tena, as they whisk Harry away to Grimmauld Place. All of the returning players did an excellent job with the sсriрt and have seemed to really settle into their characters. Their on-screen ease translates into a much more digestible storyline. And for the new cast members, among them, the ineffably delightful Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge made the experience all the more delightful. Newcomer Evanna Lynch had a great turn as the eccentric Luna Lovegood. Her scenes with Harry had the audience chuckling. The biggest laugh of the film was also tied to Harry; however, it's what preceded this laugh that will have some of Daniel's fans swooning.
We see Harry's first kiss. In the room of requirement, after most of the members of Dumbledore's Army leave, he's left alone with Cho and she tells him how difficult it's been for her after Cedric died. They just sort of get closer and finish in a long kiss which he later relates, in comic detail, to Hermione and Ron in the common room.
It's clear throughout the movie that Harry is maturing and finding his place in this world where Voldemort has not only returned but has strengthened his numbers.
Maturity is a recurring theme for some of the other characters as well and everyone is beginning to take responsibility for their actions.
One more standout performance, that would be tragic if I didn't mention it, has to be Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange. She is one of the three actresses who floated around in my head when I read the book. Her performance was over the top, but I quite expected it from her character.
All in all, the movie is a quick paced fun ride which is sure to wow audiences with the sharp visual effects and provide staunch literalists with a balanced story line. Director David Yates, who has mostly worked in television, has helmed a great movie. Condensing a book of near 900 pages into a film of tolerable length would be a challenge for any director, let alone one who's new to feature films.
Yes, there are deep cuts, but the heart of the story is faithfully represented. Hopefully, the built in fan base, who can be rabid and quite militant at times, will appreciate this movie and for new fans (obviously living under a rock for the last decade) of the series it will serve as an explosive introduction. I will be in line to see the finished product many, many, times.
а это он же отвечает на вопросы по поводу фильма
-I would like to ask if there's at least any scenes referring to quidditch -- that connects Ron to becoming the new goal-keeper. Is there really no Hermione giving Ron a kiss?
No and no, sadly.
-Carlos, does Tonks' hair ever pink?
No. Not completely pink. More like pink highlights/streaks with dark roots.
-What exactly is shown with all of the Privet Drive stuff? How long are the Dursleys in the film? Does it begin with them?
Dudley's gang (which are quite hilarioius when you come from the West-side of Chicago) confront Harry on the playground. It kinda feels like a scene out of Training day at first, 'cause London for some reason has a heatwave going on and all the grass is dry. The Dursley's are in the film the requisite 10-15 min. necessary, then Moody and co. come to take Harry to Grimmauld.
-Tell me they didnt cut the scene where harry throws and shouts at dumbledores office? Oh and please tell me that was heartbreaking .. tell me that Dan improved a lot ! please
They didn't. It's a powerful scene and Dan's acting (as have most of the younger regular cast) has vastly improved. It isn't as heartbreaking as you may think. The book causes you to empathise with Harry, but Daniel can only do so much. It was a good scene, though.
-I also wonder how they were going to show Occlumency. To translate those sequences to film requires a lot of imagination.
The scenes are done using very quick editing and a sort of flashback style. Very quick, but not too lumpy or saturated which would cause the audience to tune out.
-So, the question is: what are Ron and Hermione gonna be doing while the DD/Vold./Harry fight?
They are being held by Deatheaters as they weren't as successful in the fight as you'd hope.
-I am EXTREMELY curious, is the part with Twins and busting out of Hogwarts from the great hall flying on their brooms in the movie? Because if not, i would be devastated as that is my favorite part of all the books.
Yes. That scene is in the movie, but sadly it doesn't feature the swamp spell they cast. But it is one of the more memorable scenes in the movie. Incredible effects.
-Any foreshadowing between Harry and Ginny?
Very little, they share a look between them that 'book' fans will catch, but regular fans of the films won't get the foreshadowing
-how does the film look? is it as good as poa? or does it look like a tv movie
Since I saw what's called a rough cut of the movie, the final look of the film will be incredible. Some of the scenes, which did look finished had some very lush tones and the cinematography lets you know you're watching a film and not a movie. Some of the scenes framed were a grand Cinema-Scope-y feel. Especially some of the flying scenes. Although the director comes from the television scene, he must have surrendered to the will of the cinematographer.
-Carlos, would you say, that to fans, the Ootf movie is more or less disappointing than Gof? Should I have high or low hopes? I definetly don't want to expect more when there's less. I would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks.
It will be significantly less disappointing to fans. I think your hopes won't be dashed when you see this film. In the forums I have posted on adaptation of book to film. It pretty much covers my thoughts on the subject. See Argent Scrim's Film Emporium Forum, under Order of the Phoenix Test Screening. Thanks.
-How were the politics dealt with in the movie? Did you feel like the government was putting pressure on Hogwarts? Oh, and how was the scene where Dumbledore escapes?
The Ministry is seen as a bit totalitarian in scope and it seems that the Minister is portrayed as a bit of a dictator with Umbridge as his right hand. Dubledore's escape was spectacular, that's all I'm going to say about it.
-Is Ron still made a coward in this movie? Does he have some action? Do we get to see any jealousy about Krum or any outward affection between Ron and Hermione?
No. Ron is definately more confident than he was in the past. Ron would say, Krum Who? No PDA's between R/H. Sorry shippers.
-How was the reaction of Harry when he find out that Cho was the snich?
Everyone files past her as they come out of Umbridges concentration camp classroom with Harry being the last and he walks right past her. No stealing glance, no ounce of recognition. It was very cold. I felt bad for Cho, since she didn't snitch on purpose.
-Carlos I read on IMDB that the scene where AD and V fights is really good, plus the whole possesion of Harry's body was very well done and very well acted.
YES. It's no Vader-Kenobi in EpIII, but magically speaking, it rocks the house. So inventive, those two and the visuals are great. It's easy to see where the money went. The possession of Harry was, indeed, well acted. Daniel has come along way from whence he uttered, in an unbelievable lilt, "Give that back, Malfoy!" Harry's possession is very real and that's saying something considering there isn't much going on visually to aid Daniel.
-In Snape's Worst Memory, does Lily stick up for Snape after James and Sirius start teasing him and does Snape call her a mudblood?
Never happend. Sorry.
-Were there any scenes you thought were boring or ran too long? Any details you thought should have been cut?
I'm pretty concerned about the ending. Did they handle all the exposition well in Dumbledore's office?
Well, since you asked. If I were going to trim some fat out of the movie, I'd cut some of Hagrid introducing the trio to his brother, but he does play a key role in dispatching Umbridge. It could have played a little faster in those scenes. They handled the exposition well in the office but it does come at you rather quickly. To the non-book readers out there (all two of you), you better get a Cliff's notes version of OotP. LOL!
-How are the relationships in the movie? I don't mean the romantic ones. Like how was Harry's relationship with Dumbledore, Ron and Hermione, and Sirius?
They reflect his maturing and growing independence from them. With Dumbledore's distancing himself from Harry (for his own sake) we see that Harry realizes he has got to learn to make decision on his own and that the time for him to have a mentor constantly around to monitor those decision is passing. The trio dynamic doesn't manifest itself as well as we'd like to see. Harry is viewed as a leader, so Ron and Hermione rarely challenge him and fall into more submissive roles than were used to. As for with Sirius, he's Harry's only connection to his family and he treasures his relationship with him. Sirius seems to be the only one Harry won't contradict as well. Their interaction, while active throughout the film, doesn't bode well for Harry, psychologically speaking in the climax of the movie. Oh the humanity at the end.
-So her hair DOES change color, Carlos? There has been much debate on that.
I don't remember it changing. But, her appearance changes when she's sitting down at the dinner table, morphing between different animal visages.
-Without giving too much away, could you comment on Yates' (and his DP of course) cinematography at all? How does it compare to PoA and GoF? Being a filmmaker myself I'm curious about how Yates has put his visual stamp on this film.
Well, I'm not a cinematograhper, so I cannot explain technically, how Yates' cinematography differs from his TV work as I haven't seen any, but I have seen a LOT of movies. This film feels, cinematically, like a film from the 50's filmed in Cinema-Scope. A wide aspect ratio with tons of shots that have a lot of movement in them. The kind of thing that will be killed in P/S format on television. The scenes with the DA are all wide with few closeups so we can see everyone practicing. The walls are mirrored so it gives you the sense of a dance studio/martial arts training center. It makes for a great visual. Versus the other films, it's more like the first one. I don't know if Yates' stamp will be apparent, as I understood this is his first feature.
-And Carlos, dear, please, what were Ron, Hermione, Luna and Neville doing in the last fight scene?
Being held by Deatheaters. You didn't think they were going to overcome wizards with so much more experience, did you? They hold their own for a while, but, you know.
-1. Was the particular person's death whom I shall not name dramatic and well acted?
2. Is there a trip to St. Mungo's?
3. Is there the spinning entrance room with floating candles in the DoM?
4. Did Sirius have more screen time than in PoA and GoF? THANKS SO MUCH!!
Yes and yes. No, I was hoping to see St. Mungo's as well. N/A. Yes, much more and quality time too.
-I want to know if the Dudley/Dementors/Dursleys scene is like the book. I am dying to see that
It's fairly accurate, as I remember it in the book.
-What were the DA lessons like? Do we get to see pairs duel?
-And you also said that we get the post-H/C kiss scene where Harry describes it, does that mean we also get the 'emotionl range of a teaspoon'scene?
The lessons begin awkwardly, then with everyone gaining confidence in their abilities, including the little shutterbug kid (sorry can't remember his name right now, moving too fast) you start to see progress. The DA lesson scenes were some of the most memorable in the movie. Yes, there are duels in the film, but ONE in particular is going to blow up the forums. Shippers, that one's for you. Yes, it's a very funny line delivered with perfect comedic timing by Emma.
-4)Was Mr. Weasley's attack in the movie? A yes or no will be fine for me. I just want to know.
Yes. The rest of your questions have been asked/answered.
-On Bellatrix what is her part like at the end before the duel with Dumbledore and Voldemort? How does she interact with Voldemort and Harry?
She doesn't interact with Harry too much and she just sort of hisses at Neville when everyone faces off with eachother. She's mean, no doubt, and let's Neville know she's #1 on her list.
-Secondly, I have a question for you. I am a very big Remus Lupin fan, did he have much screen time at all?
Very little, I'm sorry. I was so hoping there'd be a little about him and Tonks, but alas, it was not to be.
-I heard Hermione gets Ginny's line and takes over the introduction of Luna. Is that true? Please say it isn't so....
Yes. sorry. ;-(
-does Ginny have any lines at all?
Other than Expeliarmus and Expecto Patronum, not many. Sorry.
-Did they have Hermione writing the letter to Krum? Also, while we're on Hermione do they have the part in Umbridge's class where Umbridge wants them to read and Hermione's already read the whole book?
Whose idea is it to start the DA? And how was the scene in the Hog's Head?
It's a Krum-free zone, sorry. Nope, she doesn't challenge her that way, but she does challenge her authority. The DA results from Ron and Hermione telling Harry that they have to learn how to defend themselves. At the Hog's head, we get to see Abelforth for a quick second AND one of his goats, LOL! The scene there was great, the whole team committing to the DA, even Collin! I just remembered his name, sorry about that earlier.
-Finally, do you think David Yates would already have got the job for HPB based on what you've seen? Many thanks.
I think he could garner a repeat, but I don't think so. The real test for a helmer is going to be the last movie. They are going to have to bring out the big guns for that one. You are most, welcome, all of you.
-One of the Marauders actors mentioned that he was having his face digitally scanned. Does that mean we should see them transform in the film?
I only saw one besides Sirius.
-1. What do think was the best part of the movie (Dumbledore's Army, Fred and George Escape, etc..)
2. Which scene did you find most FAITHFUL to the book.
3. Does Ginny get more screen time, she is such a cool character and she DESERVES to be on the screen.
4. Does the movie try people the Harry/Ginny relationship for next movie? It's going to be important for HBP, and when she marries Harry in Deathly Hallows, the movie will have to explain it to non-HP fans.
The climactic scene at the end in the Ministry of Magic. The arrival at hogwarts with Luna seemed in mind to be the most faithful to the book (again, my opinion). Ginny doesn't get more screen time, but she is seen as powerful as she demonstrates in the DA lessons. No, no overt H/G shipping is implied or expressed other than a little glance at the end of a scene.
-Carlos, if Ron was a minor part, how about Hermione? Does she have more exposure than Ron again?
No, they have about the same amount; which is to say they aren't the focus of this movie. Harry is really the focus as is the DA (of which Ron and Hermione belong).
-1)Is the line "You know minister, I disagree with Dumbledore on many counts, but you cannot deny hes got style" in the film?
2)I know they were rough special effects, but from what you could see, were the fireworks in the film as they descrived in the book? With dragons and spinning wheels, and curse words in the sky, from what we saw in the trailer, they just look like mini normal fireworks.
3)Do they show the twins trying to sell their merchandise to students, and when the leave do they tell them to visit their premises?
4)I know rita has been cut, but is it ture they dont have Luna or her father write the quibbler article that tells Harrys side of the story?
Yes, indeed it is and to the great delight of the audience. it got a big laugh. Yes, the trailer only showed you the beginning of that scene. It starts out small, but gets ridiculous! Yes, they sell some of their wares, but Umbridge halts that. No, no quibbler article, but you do see her reading a copy ofthe quibbler when we first see her in the carriage being pulled by the thestral.
-Speaking of acting:
How was Emma's acting? No one seemed to have asked and I was wondering.
Emma is a consumate professional which is to say that she's picking up all the good acting habits from the fabulous talent and hundreds of years of combined experience from the actors on set. I wouldn't be surprised to see Emma break out and become a real movie star in the future. She's got the chops and you don't just develop that over time. Don't be surprised to see her at the Academy Awards some day. When she's done with the potter series, you'll be amazed at what she is capable of. I really mean this.
-Do the Maruaders look how you imagined when reading the books?
-From 1-10 (1 being the worst, 10 being the best), how would you rate Snape's Worst Memory in the film?
Sort of, I always imagined this little motley crew of kinda outlaws and that's what they looked like. I just didn't expect them to vary in age and appearance so much. BTW..BONUS, BONUS! Wait 'til you see Moody on a broom! I'd rate it a 7. It could have been longer.
-How did Harry know about the Room of Requirements? And was Cho the snake? Did they actually make snake-tirck thingy on her face?
-Did Mrs. Weasley's boggart make it?
-I take it there's no St. Mungo's, so no Neville with his parents?
-And lastly: How many times did they make Ron make the infamous film!Ron-funny-scared-stupid face?!
Room of requirement discovered by Neville and explained by Hermione, of course. No snake 'thingy' as you say. No boggart to speak of. No Mungo's. Surprisingly, NONE!
-So my question is: Does that duel scene that you say will blow up the forums involve Ron? please, please tell!
I ain't telling. It's too good to let that cat out of the bag.
-is Aunt Petunia's howler in it? If it is, was it as "mysterious" on screen as it was in the book? Thanks again!
No, sorry. No mysteries with the Dursleys, only exposition to a side of them I'd thought I'd never see given Surrey's climate.
-neville/hospital when he see's his parents?? i take it that did NOT make the final cut???
Nope. Into the ether it went.
-Also you mentioned 'Colin' earlier. Has he returned in the film? Or you do mean 'Nigel' who they brought in randomly in the 4th film? How about class time? How many are in the 5th film, and which lessons are they? Is flitwick still different from the 1st two films? Now he looks so different! And what teachers were shown in the film? In the 4th film I found the sсriрt very 'awkward'. Has it improved? Last of all, I noticed in the 4th film there wern't actually many spells, but just hand movements with the wand, how is it now in OOTP?
My bad. You are correct. It is Nigel. Very little class time, only with Umbridge and specifically the O.W.L.'s are discussed and what is necessary to pass them. Yes, he's still different. Very few teachers besides, McGonagal, Umbridge, and Trelawney (who has a nice dramatic turn). Yes, the sсriрt seems to be much more polished than last time. It's a mixture of both, when they are learning the spells, they are saying them all the time, but when they meet Deatheaters in the Ministry, they don't utter them all the time. Perplexing if you know the canon as they never touch on not enunciating the incantation.
-So Cho is the sneak. But does she get the lovely pustules spelling the word 'SNEAK' on her face?
No, just the disdain of her fellow DA memebers.
- I just can't resist asking. Was Gary Oldman's performance worth whatever it was he got out of WB?
Also, I wonder who plays Phineas Nigellus. And what Ginny's Patronus looks like, assuming that she can produce one.
His performance, for Gary Oldman, was subdued. Exactly as the character was established in POA. No Phineas. Ginny's patronus, if I remember correctly is like that of a phoenix.
-how was tom felton? how many scenes did he have?
Tom was great in the 5 scenes he's in. Sorry.
-I wanted to know if Ron ends up with his brain scars in the end or even gets attacked by the brains. Also how is the relationship between Ron and Hermione in this film?
No brain scars, never happens. They are sailing on the H.M.S. Platonic. Sorry shippers.
-Is the Pesnsieve scene "Snape´s Worst Memory" as cruel as in the books or easier to bear?
Much easier to bear. In the book it was excrutiatingly humiliating. There's little of that conveyed in the film.
-1. If they've cut the Quibbler, then what's their explanation for Harry writing lines?
2. Does Luna ever wear her lion hat? What is Luna like in general? Is Evanna as awesome as we've hoped?
3. Who was the best new character?
4. Is Kreacher there? How big of a part does he play?
Harry is writing lines for his claims about Voldemort in Umbridge's class. No Lion hat. Luna, is great. She's kooky and has this eccentric feel to her. Evanna is wonderful, during the brief moments she's on-screen.Kreacher is featured and is just the jerk you hope he is. I didn't see his final rendered form, but he was like Dobby, but a little more sinister.
-Carlos, tell me, how was the Dumbledore and Voldermort wizard duel scenes near the end of the movie? Were they a nice reflection of the book's version?
Yes, the scene is lush with visuals and a fair representation of what I remember being in the book. The scene doesn't drag and is done intelligently. You have to remember, these are the Director's concept of what the book was trying to connote. If it did so or not, will be the opinion-makers' charge. In my opinion, he did a splendid job of telling the story in the book. I could be wrong, but my 30+ years of watching and 2 years of (failed, so far) writing them tells me I saw a great film. That's all I can offer.
-Does Draco have more screentime in this? 'Cuz in GoF he didn't really have that much
No, sadly. He's not too much of a presence in the film.
-As a fan I want you to comment on the movie more than their acting, you're not a movie critic so your comments about their acting are not really credible, if I'm a Rupert fan I will praise Rupert the most or if I'm Emma's fan I would do the same, I preffer to hear about their acting from movie critics than fans, but please keep telling us about the movie as a whole and not their acting.
Gotcha. I've tried to explain that my opinon on acting means squat. It's simply my opinion as one movie-goer. However, I do know sсriрts and I can say that this is very Harry heavy. Any increase in his acting ability is going to seem exagerated due to the amount of screen-time Daniel's getting. Let me give an example, I don't particularly like Dakota Fanning, but she has the acting chops that most of the top stars don't have. With so much of today's 'stars' being prized for their marketablility she is a rare gem. If she were born a few year earlier across the pond, and a male, we wouldn't be commenting on Daniel's acting ability. It's a gift to do what actors do. Some do it better than others to be sure. Los dos centavos.
-Glad to hear about Emma's acting Could you comment on Dan and Rupert's acting too?
Dan's acting ability I KNOW I've commented on earlier tonight, but Rupert's ability is much like Emma's it depends on what he's got to work with. In the previous film, he tried to oversell the 'mad at Harry' emotion with a serious of glints, stares and sighs. It wasn't working. I don't have a copy of the sсriрt, but I'm sure they left it in there because there wasn't much to work with.
-Carlos if you think that about Emma then I cannot draw any conclutions about what you think of their acting, certainly Emma is not a pretty good actress. Sorry dude!
Well. These are my opinions and I am not infalible in these matters. I am simply saying that in my experience, I've seen her improve. You have to think about the sсriрts they are handed and what they've got to work with. This is art, not science and because of that it is all subjective. My last word on this is time will tell.
-does Harry and Hermione go with Umbridge to the forest or there are other students with them...
Just those three.
-Oh, and how much of Hagrids Tale do we see? Is that even in it?
Very little. He just sort of tells the Trio where he's been.
-How do fred and george explain how they got the money for their jokeshop? Is it even in it?
No jokeshop, no explanation necessary.
-now we know Carlos is an Emma's fan and a R/H fan too and for what I heard of you dissapointment I think you are a Rupert fan too!
I am Emma's fan as an actress, but not a great fan of Hermione. She's too much a 'metiche' as we'd say in Spanish or a busybody in English. I am no shipper. I just am using logic to deduce that the two are DESTINED for each other. I am a fan of Rupert as well, but I don't think that's a bad thing. We all know this is Harry's story, but for cinematic sake, there needs to be a balance for the trio of actors as well as the sake of the cast in general.
-How long approx was Snape's Worst Memory?
And was there much interaction between Snape and Lily? Do we see the grey underpants? XP
3-4 Min, tops. None that I recall, no grey underpants seen. Just hanging up in the tree.
-Do we know if Ron and Hermione are Prefects?
Also, what role does Draco have in the film?
No, it's never mentioned. Draco is Umbridge's lackey in the anti-DA organization. I don't recall it's name. I apologize.
-I have an important question: Emma'a eyebrows, are they still as jumpy and dancey as they were in GoF?!
And they gave Ginny's lines to Hermione? God! How many Weasley lines is Hermione gonna rip in those films!
No, thank goodness. She's learn to control her exprеssions and the tendancy to overact. Yes, they went to Emma and well, the Weasely's are the sсriрt's whipping posts.
-Carlos, I have only one question, which is: what did Umbridge have Harry write on his hand? Is it really "I will not break rules"? Or did they end up going with the book and have him write "I must not tell lies"?? And if it is "I must not break rules" did it seem childish or did they make it work???
She made him write, "I must not tell lies". And it's a brutal scene. Some of the younger kids in the audience were wincing as were some adults. The entire DA is subjected to this later in the movie, except Cho.
-Ohh, and how was the Black Family Tapestry???
Imelda plays the part, as I've said before, like a cobra wrapped in a silk blanket. She's mean, but it just bubbles up here and there. She is just the right amount of cruel. Grawp makes his appearance and has a role in saving the kids from Umbridge, but, mercifully (as I am in your camp concering this character) his screen time is minimal. The Black family tapestry is indeed in the movie, however, some of the CGI behind it wasn't completed and some of what I saw was green screen. It is rather lush and detailed though as Sirius explains to Harry what it is and why he's got a spot over his name.
-but is she toad-like enough? Cruel enough? Certainly the brief previews we've seen from HBO have been encouraging, but how would you rate her on that level?
-and how about grawp? did you get to see him? What's his role like? Never found a real attraction to that chapter in the book... I usually skip it if I don't feel like a detailed reread.
-First things first... as a huge Rupert fan, I'm curious as to how you received Ron's scenes? Funny as always? Any standout scenes? I miss that he doesn't get the chance to do dramatic scenes. He'd have had the chance had they not cut out quidditch.
-And then I have to ask about Ron and Hermione. Was it subtle? The book tends to be very subtle with them, but I know Matt Lewis said there was a lot. Was there in your opinion?
Ron was, sadly, a minor part of the movie. This film centers on Harry and the DA as a whole. A theme of the movie is teamwork and that is exactly what we see. There is very little row amongst the students save for a scene between Seamus and Harry, but Ron comes to his aid and all is forgotten. Rupert is funny as always in few scenes, but, alas as you say nothing dramatic for him to sink his teeth into.
Ron and Hermione. Subtle and constant tension between the two. They are both becoming excellent actors and have played the scenes very well. The little gestures and looks between them connote their forshadowed relationship very well. There you go, shippers.
-I'm sorry, but I don't feel like I've been told anything. Exactly what in that "review" would be considered a spoiler?
Well, I am trying not to reveal too much as many fans would rather 'go in cold' and not know anything. The fact we've all read the book inherently means we can't really be 'spoiled' by what is put up on-screen. I will say this, there aren't any scenes which you would say were 'invented' for the movie. Everything I saw corresponded to something in the book.
-You also mentioned "deep cuts", which we all expect, but (in your opinion) did they cut enough to keep it from feeling like a $300 million dollar slide show like Goblet of Fire? I personally felt like everything in GoF was dealt with at light-speed, but how would you say the pacing feels in relation to Movie 4?
I have to say, the movie moves quite quickly, but I think they learned their lesson from the brief treatment they gave scene like the Q'ich world cup. The scenes we are treated to last as long as they are relevant. The cuts come from the ancillary stories which float throughout the book, but don't really move the story forward.
-1) You mention that the movie began with the Advance Guard, but we've seen stills from scenes relating to the dementor attack in Privet Drive, so how is that dealt with?
Harry produces his patronus and knocks the dementors out, leading to his trial at the Ministry
-How was the battle at the ministry? Did Hermione get hit with that curse? How was Dumbledore in the fight with Voldemort? Was he calm?
The battle at the ministry was great. Very suspenseful due to the setting; you'll understand, when you see the movie what I mean. No curse whirled Hermione's way. Dumbledore was ever the consumate wizard, calm and inventive to say the least
-What was Nat like as Tonks? How much was she in it? Just a little bit? Was there any Tonks/Lupin interaction?
Nat was great and funny, although she didn't have much screen time. There was no discernable Tonks/Lupin interaction.
-I didn't know Harry's first kiss is supposed to be funny
The kiss isn't funny, it's the desсriрtion to Ron and Hermione by Harry when posed the question of how it went that was hilarious.
Okay everyone,
It is going to be impossible to address you all by name, but here we go. Remember, I'm playing catch-up to all of you.
-so no dementors? bah, because I wanted to see that again. they were so spooky in poa.
No. There were dementors, but they took a slightly different form than in POA. They look skeletal.
на сообществе ru_harrypotter перевели отзыв, вот он, если кому интересно, правда не чего особо нового)))До премьеры "Ордена Феникса" осталось более 100 дней, а в Чикаго (США) тем временем во всю крутили долгожданную ленту. Здесь, вот уже не в первый раз, прошел педпремьерный показ поттерианы. Один из зрителей сказал, что фильм был закончен приблизительно на 70-80%, но остался доволен увиденным, скажу больше, "Орден" стал его самым любимым фильмом ГП. Еще не добавлена вся музыка, а многие анимированные сущетсва выглядят грубо. Общая продолжительность фильма - 140 минут.
Далее мы предлагаем вам отчет одного из счастливчиков, побывавшего на этом действе:
"Фильм открывает группа волшебников, члены Ордена Феникса, включая Тонкс (Натали Тена), они доставляют Гарри на Площадь Гриммо. Вернувшиеся актеры прекрасно адоптировались к работе. Новички, среди которых Имелда Стаунтон (Долорес Амбридж), просто восхитительны. Эванна Линч замечательно воплотила образ эксцентричной Луны Лавгуд. Ее сцены с Гарри вызывали смех у публики.
Мы увидили первый поцелуй Гарри. Когда все члены А.Д. покинули Выручай-Комнату, он оставил один с Чу, она говорит ему, что ей трудно сделать это после смерти Седрика. Они все ближе и ближе, и в итого сливаются в долгом поцелуе, который с долей иронией обсуждают Гермиона и Рон в Гриффиндорской гостинной.
На протяжении всего фильма предельно ясно, что Гарри взрослеет, борется с собой, пытается найти место в этом мире, ведь Волдеморт не только возрадился, но и набирает силы.
Взросление - главная тема и для других персонажей, и каждый из них осознает ответственность за свои действия.
Еще хотелось бы упомянуть о Хелене Бонем Картер (Беллатрикс). Ее актерское мастерство просто на высоте, но я ожидал большего от ее героини.
В целом, фильм - быстрая и забавная поездка, которая удивит зрителей сумашедшими спецэффектами и успокоит верным трактованием сюжета книги. Режиссер Дэвид Ейтс, главным образом работающий на телевидении, сделал широкоформатный кинофильм. 900 страниц оригинала были настоящим вызовом для режиссера. Да, многие сцены остались в книге, но история передана максимально точно.
Надеюсь, что для фанатов и новичков фильм будет интересен. Я буду ждать его с нетерпением, а потом смотреть снова и снова".
First Review of Order of the Phoenix, from Chicago Screening
We've received several reports in the past few days about an early screening of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Chicago; this is consistent with the timing and location of previous early screenings of other HP films. One reader noted that the movie looked like it had about 70 percent of special effects finished, and called it by far her favorite HP film. Reader Carlos sent us a detailed summary, which is below (and says if you ask questions in the comments, he'll answer). He gives the movie 3.5 stars and notes it's currently about 2:20 minutes; highlights, he says, include Evanna Lynch's turn as Luna and Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix. (If you went to the screening and want to share, email us!)
Please be reminded that SPOILERS abound in this desсriрtion (not too many, actually, but we warn you just in case)...if you don't mind that, continue reading... (and if you're on the text only site, better close the window now).
"Yesterday, Christmas came very late, as I was fortunate enough to attend an advance screening of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
As I duck the volley of butterbeers thrown my way, I have to say I was rather impressed. The version I saw was not a finished product in that some of the soundtrack and CGI hadn't been completed in time for the screening, but what you do get is a version of the movie that's about 85% complete. The dialog and final edits seem to be complete so you get a film that was easy to follow. The CGI that wasn't complete usually centered on creatures that were rendered as either animatics or rough versions of the finished product.
The movie opens with the audience being introduced to some of the Order of the Phoenix, including Tonks, who's being played by Natalia Tena, as they whisk Harry away to Grimmauld Place. All of the returning players did an excellent job with the sсriрt and have seemed to really settle into their characters. Their on-screen ease translates into a much more digestible storyline. And for the new cast members, among them, the ineffably delightful Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge made the experience all the more delightful. Newcomer Evanna Lynch had a great turn as the eccentric Luna Lovegood. Her scenes with Harry had the audience chuckling. The biggest laugh of the film was also tied to Harry; however, it's what preceded this laugh that will have some of Daniel's fans swooning.
We see Harry's first kiss. In the room of requirement, after most of the members of Dumbledore's Army leave, he's left alone with Cho and she tells him how difficult it's been for her after Cedric died. They just sort of get closer and finish in a long kiss which he later relates, in comic detail, to Hermione and Ron in the common room.
It's clear throughout the movie that Harry is maturing and finding his place in this world where Voldemort has not only returned but has strengthened his numbers.
Maturity is a recurring theme for some of the other characters as well and everyone is beginning to take responsibility for their actions.
One more standout performance, that would be tragic if I didn't mention it, has to be Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange. She is one of the three actresses who floated around in my head when I read the book. Her performance was over the top, but I quite expected it from her character.
All in all, the movie is a quick paced fun ride which is sure to wow audiences with the sharp visual effects and provide staunch literalists with a balanced story line. Director David Yates, who has mostly worked in television, has helmed a great movie. Condensing a book of near 900 pages into a film of tolerable length would be a challenge for any director, let alone one who's new to feature films.
Yes, there are deep cuts, but the heart of the story is faithfully represented. Hopefully, the built in fan base, who can be rabid and quite militant at times, will appreciate this movie and for new fans (obviously living under a rock for the last decade) of the series it will serve as an explosive introduction. I will be in line to see the finished product many, many, times.
а это он же отвечает на вопросы по поводу фильма
на сообществе ru_harrypotter перевели отзыв, вот он, если кому интересно, правда не чего особо нового)))
We've received several reports in the past few days about an early screening of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Chicago; this is consistent with the timing and location of previous early screenings of other HP films. One reader noted that the movie looked like it had about 70 percent of special effects finished, and called it by far her favorite HP film. Reader Carlos sent us a detailed summary, which is below (and says if you ask questions in the comments, he'll answer). He gives the movie 3.5 stars and notes it's currently about 2:20 minutes; highlights, he says, include Evanna Lynch's turn as Luna and Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix. (If you went to the screening and want to share, email us!)
Please be reminded that SPOILERS abound in this desсriрtion (not too many, actually, but we warn you just in case)...if you don't mind that, continue reading... (and if you're on the text only site, better close the window now).
"Yesterday, Christmas came very late, as I was fortunate enough to attend an advance screening of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
As I duck the volley of butterbeers thrown my way, I have to say I was rather impressed. The version I saw was not a finished product in that some of the soundtrack and CGI hadn't been completed in time for the screening, but what you do get is a version of the movie that's about 85% complete. The dialog and final edits seem to be complete so you get a film that was easy to follow. The CGI that wasn't complete usually centered on creatures that were rendered as either animatics or rough versions of the finished product.
The movie opens with the audience being introduced to some of the Order of the Phoenix, including Tonks, who's being played by Natalia Tena, as they whisk Harry away to Grimmauld Place. All of the returning players did an excellent job with the sсriрt and have seemed to really settle into their characters. Their on-screen ease translates into a much more digestible storyline. And for the new cast members, among them, the ineffably delightful Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge made the experience all the more delightful. Newcomer Evanna Lynch had a great turn as the eccentric Luna Lovegood. Her scenes with Harry had the audience chuckling. The biggest laugh of the film was also tied to Harry; however, it's what preceded this laugh that will have some of Daniel's fans swooning.
We see Harry's first kiss. In the room of requirement, after most of the members of Dumbledore's Army leave, he's left alone with Cho and she tells him how difficult it's been for her after Cedric died. They just sort of get closer and finish in a long kiss which he later relates, in comic detail, to Hermione and Ron in the common room.
It's clear throughout the movie that Harry is maturing and finding his place in this world where Voldemort has not only returned but has strengthened his numbers.
Maturity is a recurring theme for some of the other characters as well and everyone is beginning to take responsibility for their actions.
One more standout performance, that would be tragic if I didn't mention it, has to be Helena Bonham Carter as Bellatrix Lestrange. She is one of the three actresses who floated around in my head when I read the book. Her performance was over the top, but I quite expected it from her character.
All in all, the movie is a quick paced fun ride which is sure to wow audiences with the sharp visual effects and provide staunch literalists with a balanced story line. Director David Yates, who has mostly worked in television, has helmed a great movie. Condensing a book of near 900 pages into a film of tolerable length would be a challenge for any director, let alone one who's new to feature films.
Yes, there are deep cuts, but the heart of the story is faithfully represented. Hopefully, the built in fan base, who can be rabid and quite militant at times, will appreciate this movie and for new fans (obviously living under a rock for the last decade) of the series it will serve as an explosive introduction. I will be in line to see the finished product many, many, times.
а это он же отвечает на вопросы по поводу фильма
на сообществе ru_harrypotter перевели отзыв, вот он, если кому интересно, правда не чего особо нового)))