Seven “Harry Potter” Movie Moments That Didn’t Work
On the whole, the filmmakers adapted the Harry Potter books into movies very well, even improving upon some of the book scenes. However, there were a few moments that just didn’t work on-screen and came off as either awkward or just wrong. Below are seven movie moments that shouldn’t have been included.
Voldemort’s Hug
The hug Voldemort gave Draco was a completely out-of-character moment from a person who couldn’t love, so naturally, he also wouldn’t show any signs of affection. His arrogance in himself would also mean he wouldn’t feel the need to hug as a performative act. This moment was something that Ralph Fiennes improvised on the day of filming, and we’re not sure why the filmmakers decided to use this take instead of the many others that were shot.
Harry and Ginny’s First Kiss
In the books, this kiss was a spontaneous moment that was brought about by Harry’s jubilation. However, in the movie, this translated into an awkward moment in the Room of Requirement that just came off very wrong. Actually, when you look into it further, pretty much all of Harry and Ginny’s movie relationship is cringey and hard to watch.
Harry and Hermione’s Dance
This moment came about just after Ron left, and it feels out of place. This is meant to be a heartbreaking moment for all. Harry and Hermione both grieve Ron’s loss in their own ways and try not to bring him up. This moment of attempted shared levity just came off as cringeworthy.
Harry and Voldemort’s Final Duel
Harry and Voldemort’s final confrontation at Hogwarts was another change that was over the top. In the books, Harry and Voldemort’s final face-off was a rather anti-climactic end in the Great Hall in front of everyone, which is exactly what Voldemort deserved. Instead, this was changed to them flying over the battle-damaged Hogwarts. By making this conflict more visually exciting for a movie audience, the filmmakers removed the ultimate pitiful expression of Voldemort failing in his mission to make himself superior to the average wizard.
The Beauxbatons Entrance
The Beauxbatons students’ fluttery entrance is a bit much. It was meant to be a feminine contrast to Durmstrang’s masculine display, but this was something the filmmakers jazzed up unnecessarily. It would have been better if both schools were coed, like in the book.
Moaning Myrtle in the Tub
The books make it pretty clear that Myrtle has a crush on Harry, but seeing this overly aggressive display on-screen was awkward and uncomfortable – especially when you consider that the actress playing Myrtle was in her 30s, whereas Dan was just a teenager.
Whenever Harry and Dumbledore Discuss Harry’s Love Life
The book relationship between the two is very complicated, but it’s an important mentor-mentee dynamic. The discussions that take place between these two about Harry’s romances feel out of place, especially when that time could have been used to further explore the backstory of the Horcruxes.
What do you think of our list? Are there any other moments you wouldn’t have included in the films? Let us know in the comments.
