I have spied for you, I have lied for you, put myself in mortal danger for you. Everything was supposed to be to keep Lily Potter’s son safe. Now you tell me you have been raising him like a pig for slaughter.
– Severus Snape
Severus’ words above are the crux of the entire Harry Potter saga. I felt compelled to write this article because I was moved by the various elements of human nature in the 8th instalment of the Harry Potter franchise. I came out of the theatre full of sadness for Alan Rickman’s character (Severus Snape). He is the most misunderstood and the bravest of them all. Fans of Harry Potter agree by naming Severus as the most popular character of the series.
#1 Severus Snape Played by: Alan Rickman Alan Rickman was the only person other than JK Rowling to know, from the start, where this story was going. He had to, because Snape is a puzzle-box of a character, layering secrets and riddles over a heart that remains hidden until the very end. Let’s face it: even the sneering, supercilious outermost layer is a delight to behold, Rickman’s distinctive delivery squeezing malice out of every word (listen to his “Turn to page 394” in Prisoner of Azkaban). – www.empireonline.com
For some people who have not seen the movie, this article will be a spoiler. If you have read the books, then it can’t possibly spoil what you already know.
To keep this brief (since I tend to waffle on when excited), here are the Top 10 elements of this final movie that I loved the most.
1) Bellatrix Lestrange
I am filled with glee when Helena Bonham Carter’s Bellatrix appears. What new madness is she up to now? I must say that Helena acting as Hermione acting as Bellatrix was a highlight for me. I could “see” Hermione in Bellatrix!
2) Voldemort
As strange as it sounds, I will miss Ralph Fiennes’ Voldemort. You can probably tell that I am a Ralph fan. This film showcases Voldemort to the brim. I marvel at Ralph Fiennes’ hissing portrayal of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. Voldemort’s graceful movements are a delight to behold.
3) Emma Watson
Simply gorgeous. Enough said.
4) Narcissa Malfoy
She is a tormented mother. Caught between her love for her son, Draco, and her allegiance to Voldemort, watch Narcissa lie for Harry. Narcissa Malfoy succeeded in stealing one scene in the movie. Her lie allowed Harry to have another chance at killing Voldemort. Watch how the Malfoy family abandoned the battlefield to keep their family unit intact. Some might call this cowardice, I see it as self preservation. The Malfoys will continue to be wicked because that is their nature. Regardless, I applaud how JK Rowling can depict sensibility in this family.
5) Mrs Weasley
My favourite mother. Who would have thought that Mrs. Weasley can stand her own against Bellatrix Lestrange. Watch how this kind woman fill with utter rage, and in her anger she becomes deadly!
6) Neville Longbottom
Neville, standing up bravely against Voldemort, filled me with pride.
7) Aberforth Dumbledore
Aberforth’s magic is wonderful to see.
8) Professor McGonagall
It was a triumph to see Professor McGonagal finally assume the role as Hogwart’s Headmaster. The scene where she cast a spell to give life to the stone soldiers was exciting.
9) Harry Potter
Harry goes back to rescue Draco Malfoy from being burned alive inside the room of requirement. This was a lesson on magnanimity.
10) Severus Snape
Most of all, I tore up watching the story of Severus’ undying love and affection for Harry’s mother, Lily Potter. “You have your mother’s eyes” – were Severus’ last words.
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