Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, directed by David Yates (DVD)

Bibliographic Information:
Yates, D. (2007). Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Warner Home Video. ASIN: B00005JPI2

Book Awards:
Not applicable

Plot Summary:
Although Harry feels that Cedric Diggory's death is obvious proof of Voldemort's return, the Ministry of Magic doesn't want to admit the possibility, and they are instigating a huge cover-up. The Ministry is in league with all of the press, and they send the amazingly horrible Dolores Umbridge to Hogwarts as the Defense against the Dark Arts teacher because she won't actually teach the kids anything. As all the old aurors gather back into the Order of the Phoenix to fight Voldemort, Harry must start his own group at school to actually practice defense against the dark arts. When the Ministry, in a desperate bid to keep the lid on Voldemort's return, overthrow's Dumbledore and puts Umbridge in his place as Head of Hogwarts, all-out war ensues!

Critical Evaluation:
The makers of the movie did the best job they could without creating a Mel Gibson-esque 6 hour extravaganza. This is probably the darkest movie of them all-- between the gloomy headquarters of the Order, Umbridge's loathsome takeover at Hogwarts, Harry's unpopularity (not to mention his rage and depression), and, of course the tragedy at the end, there's not too much cheer here. Harry's relationship with Cho hits its high point in this movie, really marking the characters' full entry into adolescence. Nevertheless, it is a well done continuation of Rowling's story, and as such, a pleasure to watch.

Reader's Annotation:
No one believes that Voldemort is back! Can Harry overcome the ill-will of his fellow students as well as Dolores Umbridge to help in the fight?

About the Author:
Not applicable

Genre:
Fantasy

Curriculum Ties:
None

Booktalking Ideas:
Not applicable

Interest Age:
9+

Challenge Issues:
Witchcraft
If a challenge should occur:
Watch the movie! Urge parent to do the same. Cite reviews. Refer to collection development policy. If dispute continues, parents' wishes regarding their own children will be respected.

Reason Included:
This is the most recent Harry Potter to come out on DVD.