Harry Potter Fans Still Think This Filmmaker Should Have Directed the Entire Franchise

For about twenty years since Chris Columbus introduced the wizarding world to cinemas with Harry Potter, fans have been discussing whether he should have directed all eight films due to his exceptional talent for conveying the magical spirit of the series. Although later directors like Alfonso Cuarón, Mike Newell, and David Yates each infused their creative perspectives into the franchise, a significant group of viewers asserts that Columbus’s blend of childlike enchantment with accurate portrayal in the first two films laid the foundation for a style that should have been consistently followed throughout the series. A recent Reddit conversation on January 16th underscores how Columbus’s direction of the initial films set a tone that many think subsequent directors failed to replicate.

One viewer shared their thoughts on r/harrypotter, expressing that the first two films evoke a sense of enchantment, whereas the subsequent ones seem like typical Hollywood productions that stray from Columbus’s original vision.

Columbus’s past as a director of child actors in films such as “Home Alone” and “The Goonies” provided him with an innate edge when managing the young talent of his franchise. Backstage footage reveals his unique method of directing young performers, which encompasses providing thorough guidance on everything from edible props (“Please avoid eating any snacks on the table”) to intricate scene coordination. Nevertheless, the intense work schedule eventually resulted in Columbus’s departure.

He explained to The Hollywood Reporter, ‘Since I was actively participating with them, it was incredibly tiring.’ He wasn’t merely directing from a chair and calling out ‘Cut’ and ‘Action’. Instead, he was deeply engaged. In fact, he lost approximately 15 pounds during the first film, all due to the intense physical activity.

After that, the franchise went through various directors, such as Cuarón, Newell, and ultimately Yates, who concluded the series. Each director added their unique touch, but some viewers claim the subsequent movies lacked the charm of the originals.

One Reddit user commented that their spouse, who hadn’t read the original books, found themselves bewildered and disoriented throughout the movies, expressing, “My husband admitted he was often puzzled and disoriented during many parts of the film.” Critics of later adaptations, specifically Cuarón’s Prisoner of Azkaban, often criticize substantial cuts from the original storyline.

A prominent Reddit user pointed out that the third movie hastily covered essential storylines, expressing it this way: “Alfonso prioritized narrating a coming-of-age tale, thus significantly reducing the screen time for Sirius and the revelation about the Marauders.

Columbus himself has shown a desire to be part of the last two movies. Previously, he told Collider that he wished to participate in the final two installments, but he also praised Yates’ work.

As a die-hard fan, I’ve harbored this longing for quite some time – to revisit and film the concluding chapters of the Deathly Hallows saga. I firmly believe that the second part of it is nothing short of genius cinema.

Over time, Yates took over as the longest-running director for the franchise, wrapping up the initial series and directing the Fantastic Beasts films as well. However, while there was a consistent vision in the later movies, some fans argue that Columbus’s earlier works were more effective at conveying the magical wonder of J.K. Rowling’s world. The discussion about Columbus’s influence remains contentious among fans, with some appreciating how subsequent directors developed the series’ tone, while others believe his original vision was better suited for Harry Potter‘s environment, especially in simplifying the intricate plot for those unacquainted with the books.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is now streaming on Max.

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2025-01-18 02:11