Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you - yes, we mean you - jump into the forum link below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching Harry Potter.

Sound Off On Harry Potter

What I liked: The new Harry Potter movie was surprisingly user friendly, and I was able to grasp the entire cast, characters and plotline due to the fact that I had seen the first two movies. This surprised me because I haven’t read any of the books and hadn’t seen the last two movies, and was afraid I would be behind the curve.
What I disliked: For an adventure fantasy, I don’t see much wrong with it, although some of the bizarre gymnastics of the sorcerers college caretaker were a bit exaggerated and beyond gravity, but then you have to separate yourself from the known world for this genre.
Would I recommend?: Highly recommend it to fantasy special effects enthusiasts
7 out of 10

- Michael Ritenour

What I Liked: I thought this was a wonderful movie. The effects were great, dialogue witty and storyline enthralling.
Though some naysayers might look upon these films as kid’s movies, they really touch upon mature themes such as individual thought, good versus evil, internal struggles and fighting tyranny. There are some great lessons in this movie we could all benefit from.
Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint are all great and are growing into full-fledged teenagers with the perfect balance of normalcy and awkwardness to make them believable. You find yourself rooting for them throughout the movie.
What I Disliked: I have not been a true follower of the Harry Potter books and movies so I was a little confused in parts. After, I immediately wanted to catch up on all that I missed prior. I also would love to have seen more of the supporting characters especially Gary Oldman who is brilliant. But when isn’t he, really?
Would I recommend?: I would highly recommend it. It helps the viewer escape the mundane which alot of movies try to accomplish but usually don’t succeed.  The world in which Harry Potter and friends live in is amazing and was displayed brilliantly in this film. I was glad to be a part of it, if only for a couple of hours.

8 Out Of 10

- Stephanie Powers

What I Liked: Encapsulating an 870 page book into a 140 minute movie is no small feat. That being said, HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX, the movie, includes the most important parts of J.K. Rowling’s story.
Umbridge is painful to watch, and Luna Lovegood is mesmerizing.  Both debut in this picture, and are played to perfection. 

What I Disliked: So far in the series, this is the most painful movie to view (Umbridge’s personality & Harry’s internal and external conflicts), which means it is the most difficult to truly enjoy. 
In the movie (as well as while reading the book), I cringed each time Harry was doubted by his friends, punished by his teachers, challenged by anyone, or confronted by Voldemort.
Would I Recommend?: Resist reading the book before seeing this movie. Otherwise, while you are watching the movie, you’ll be ticking off in your mind everything the filmmakers left out.  Enjoy the movie for its merits and magic, as I did.  This is the best adaptation of the series to date!

10 out of 10

- Courtenay O’Connell