As the Harry Potter films continue, and Potter grows older the series gets darker and delves into adult themes. The powers that be in the Ministry of Magic smell a conspiracy in Potter's (Daniel Radcliffe) claim that the evil Voldemort has returned. Potter finds support in his friends and some of the adults at Hogswart's, but is shunned by most everyone else. On top of everything, the Ministry of Magic sends in Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton) who is sent to restrain the insistent Potter. Staunton gives a humorous and creepy performance as the sadistic Umbridge. Potter and pals rally the troops as the evil warlock Voldemort rises.

This particular outing is a little drifting and is obviously a bridge to the next films. It is clear throughout the film that the main conflict will be pushed off for another day and the ground gained is to establish the foundation for the future. Like The Empire Strikes Back or Pirates of the Carribbean: Dead Man's Chest, this film isn't meant to be a complete stand alone piece. Its leading somewhere else so the conflicts in the film lose a little of their potency. This said, the film does act as a great bridge and is a sturdy film in its own right.

With the passing of each film the franchise picks up more characters and subplots like some greedy narrative dust bunny. If you haven't seen the other films, you will be completely lost if you start here. I suggest starting from the beginning, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, and move forward from there. The franchise has been an impressive and consistently strong series of films. The quality of the films themselves is remarkable, but also their focus. Even with the gargantuan cast list, numerous motives and relationships, the films remain easily consumed and understood if taken in order.