4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is based on the popular young adult novel from J.K. Rowling and the fourth film of the series. At this point, we understand that Harry and his friends are no longer children and their enemies are more powerful and threatening than ever. Let’s consider the pros and cons of the fourth film…

Pros: This is potentially the most exciting story in the Harry Potter series due to it’s focus on the dangerous Triwizard Tournament. Three wizarding schools, each represented by one champion, enter this event designed to test their magical ability, intelligence, and courage. In spite of this daunting task, Harry is given a helping hand in the form of the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor ‘MadEye’ Moody. Brendan Gleeson plays the seasoned wizard in a performance that’s impressive in more ways than one. Another positive is the first event, which is well shot and features a terrifyingly realistic dragon.

Cons: There is some “yadda-yaddaing” happening in this movie that becomes more apparent on repeat viewings. The Goblet of Fire chooses Harry to compete in the Triwizard Tournament even though he is too young, didn’t enter himself, and there already being three contestants. Regardless, this is written off as a binding magical contract that the professors and organizers are unable to circumvent. Although previously Harry needed permission to visit a small village outside of Hogwarts, apparently he can now compete in a deadly magical tournament without any parental supervision at all. If you can get on board with Harry competing and aren’t bothered by the randomly inserted dance scene or the manufactured tension between our three heroes, it’s a thrilling movie with a nice little twist at the end.

I give Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire a B. There are some glaring plot holes, but it’s still an exciting story that shows us the extent of Voldemort’s evil and gives us a taste of the horrors to come. Happy Watching!

“There’s a reason those curses are unforgivable”