I. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
This gets the top spot just on the basis of it's sweet ending; its
really hard to top Voldemort rebirth as a climax. I also enjoyed a lot
of cinematography of the film, such as the competing schools
introduction and the Dragon. Another notable plus was a lack of
Dursleys and stupid elf things. Some negatives that almost put this in
number two spot was a lack of explanations of certain events lack of
time for the competitors who were not named Harry.
Grade A-
II. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Akzabahn
This was good movie, Highlights involve the time traveling and
Harry finally developing some effective offensive spells. However this
movie had too many Dursleys and the bizarre bus ride during the early
parts keep it from over taking the top spot. I also enjoyed the
introduction of Sirius Black who I found to be a cool character.
Grade A-
III. Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone
This movie was the introduction and as such was enjoyable. I'm
still disturbed by his abusive step family but once one gets to
hogwarts things become much more interesting. Harry has exiting
adventures, acquires noble and useful companions and saves the day. How
can this not be enjoyable?
Grade B+
IV. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
This movie rates low due to it's seeming rehashing of the
philosopher's stones conflict and that I didn't really care for the
cinematography. After the last movies amazing scenes this one seems
very closed and dark. Maybe it could have been saved by an awesome
climax, but the struggle for Harry's mind in the end just didn't lend
itself to being filmed particularly well. However, the incompetence and
downright dereliction of duty of the government certainly sets the
stage for future tragedy.
Grade B
V. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
The blame for this movies last place showing lies completely in
Dobby's lap. I despise him as the Jar Jar Binks of the Potter Universe.
He's bumbling, stupid, unfunny and worst of all, has nothing what so
ever to contribute to the plot. It seems his only purpose is to put
pointless obstacles in Harry's way. Unfortunately the elf thing is
rewarded with freedom at the end based solely on his (failed) attempts
to betray his master. Otherwise I rather liked this film, particularly
the implication that Harry is an heir of Slytherin and the mystery of
the Chamber of Secrets. Also a Giant Basilisk makes a nifty final boss.
Grade C