Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Just saw this a few hours ago. The movie was ok for the most part, and some scenes were done really well, like the DA meetings and the battle at the Ministry. Some parts were cut though that probably shouldn't have been, especially merely for the sake of time, and the person that played Dumbledore just does not fit the character. The movie could have been considerably better (and longer) but its still a good movie anyway. Some spoliers of what was cut below.

Spoiler:

They did not show an explanation of how the Order of the Phoenix was able to enter the Dursley house undetected. Minor thing but I still found it funny in the book. St. Mungo's is not in the film. Instead, Arthur apparently apparates to inside number 12, Grimmauld Place. (If I remember correctly, the Blacks had measures in place to prevent this.) Buckbeak does not make an appearance, nor does Umbridge trying to get to Sirius, instead Harry is busted even before he sticks his head into the fire. Cho betrays the DA instead of her friend Marietta. When the Weasley twins make their escape, its a good fireworks show but there is no massive swamp taking up the entire hallway. Much of the initial exploration of the Department of Mysteries is not in the film, including the room with the spinning doors.

Jam it back in, in the dark.

Originally Posted by CloudNine

None of which is terribly important to the main plot.

I thought that the way it was written and what was changed and cut was very well done. Considering the length and density of the original book, it was excellent.

I agree that none of my spoilers are essential to the plot, but I have read the book enough times to notice what was missing during the movie, and when I do not see what I had been expecting, it kind of detracts from the movies quality. I suppose its like when I expected to see the uprising of the Shire in the Return of the King (not essential to the plot but it would still be a good scene for people like me who would prefer unabridged and uncut theatrical versions of books.) The Order of the Phoenix definitely was well done even though I think the person playing Dumbledore did a terrible job. If I have time, I probably will see it again in the theater.

There's nowhere I can't reach.