People talk about how the Harry Potter films leave stuff out the books, but here are some additions of the films that were better than the source material…
8. Time Travel, The Prisoner of Azkaban
What? The finale of Prisoner – where Harry and Hermione go back in time to rescue Buckbeak and Sirius – is basically the same in both versions. However, the idea that everything has already happened – Hermione impersonating a wolf and throwing stones through Hagrid’s window – is further emphasised in the movie.
Why? All those little moments add to the fun of the time travel aspect. I also like Michael Gambon’s Dumbledore’s cheekily absent-minded act when he clearly knows exactly what is going on.
7. Obliviate! The Deathly Hallows
What? Hermione mentions to Harry and Ron in The Deathly Hallows novel that she wiped her parents memories of her for their own safety. In the film, however, we get to see this tragic moment take place.
Why? Seeing this occur is much more powerful than just hearing about it in passing. The scene in the movie is a very well filmed segment, done without dialogue as we see Hermione disappearing from photo frames. Forget Harry’s self-sacrifice, Hermione’s the one who gave up the most for their cause!
6. Start of Term Song, The Prisoner of Azkaban
What? In the books, the Sorting Hat will often start the sorting ceremony with a song. This is given a twist in The Prisoner of Azkaban movie where the Hogwarts’ choir sing the eerie ‘Double Double Toil and Trouble.’
Why? Maybe you do, but I can’t remember any lyrics from The Sorting Hat’s songs. ‘Double Double…’, however, is a terrific earworm from legendary composer John Williams that perfectly encapsulates the quirky style of Prisoner.
5. Harry and Hermione’s Chemistry, Various
What? Not a specific moment, but rather the presentation of the characters as a whole. I would argue that the films have a much stronger emphasis on Harry and Hermione’s respect for each other and deep-seated friendship. For instance: the dancing scene in Deathly Hallows.
Why? Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson have a terrific chemistry on screen, which makes any scene where Harry and Hermione share an emotional moment without Ron a standout. No offence, Rupert Grint!
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