Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban

Top 5 Scenes in Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban

A Film Review

You really see the best and worst of human nature in this third book of the Harry Potter series. Whether it’s Fred and George, who give away a valuable map for free, or Hermione, who puts everything on the line to help Harry free his godfather, there’s a lot of good. At the same time, there are some pretty despicable characters who do a lot of bad.

Perhaps it’s the tremendous contrast between good and evil which makes this movie so good. This is my favorite of the Harry Potter series.

Best scene in the film, hands down, has to be Harry’s scene in the stormy Quidditch arena. From the transition from a piece of note paper into the rain-soaked sky, which is interspersed with streaks of lightning, the production and design of the scene is just exceptional. The filmmakers also play with the timing of the scene. The frenzied pace of the Quidditch game gives way to a slower chase between the Dementors and Harry. The scene ends when Dumbledore literally freezes time – it’s an absolute treat to see.

A close second, for me, is when Hermione reveals the Time-Turner. This scene answers a lot of the viewers’ questions, thanks to timing.

Harry and Hermione frantically beg their headmaster, Dumbledore, to free their imprisoned friend. Instead of helping, he disappears from the scene and encourages them to use their resources. When Hermione reveals that she’s been traveling in time to attend all of her classes, viewers understand a mystery that’s been developing throughout the film and have a renewed sense of hope that the plot will turn out alright. Also, the hypnotic tolling bell adds to the aura of time and its importance in this story. There are obvious hints that the tide is supposed to shift, such as the slowly turning gears.

Next, I think, must be Fred and George’s decision to share the map. This scene is all about details. From the invisible Harry, dragging his feet in the snow, to the identical remarks that the twin brothers make, it’s a witty and accurate tribute to the scene in the book. This is also why Harry’s talk with Lupin is a memorable moment. The actors are in the foreground, and the moment dwells on the tranquil nature of their relationship. It’s about time that Harry has a trusted adult in his life, and the gentle music, and emphasis on the nature in their surroundings helps add to the peaceful feeling the moment brings. The film’s conclusion is just as exceptional. Harry soars away on his new broomstick, echoing the freedom and joy he felt when flying on the hippogriff Buckbeak for the first time. It’s a joyful moment of triumph, reminding the viewer that his adventures aren’t over. Flight is a constant symbol of freedom, throughout the book. The actors should also be acknowledged immensely. With a perfect cast as Gary Oldman, Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and many others, it’s impossible for this film to be anything but a hit. If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend! ⚡️