HP film notes scene 5 and 6

The medium shots of the Weasley twins sitting on the bench with the young boys, who are testing their magical sweets is filled with comedy. Comedy mixed within a magical school is the appeal with this film. This is pure mischief and entertains the audience with the effects from the props. CGI plays around with a boy’s chin growing, which becomes fascinating to watch as you witness magic.

Also, the off-screen diegetic sound of Ron and Hermione talking about their O.W.LS causes the cut to the medium long shot of the pair. Indications of romance blossoming can be seen here as Ron jokingly says “I love you Hermione” and their body language suggests there is an attraction, which causes fans and teens to like this film as they can relate.

This film involves ordinary characters which look realistic from their shirts, jumpers and trousers. They suggest the unbelievable can happen to anyone whether you are a ‘muggle’ or not. However, the slightly low key lighting still indicates the characters are in a magical environment.

In all of my fantasy focus films; there have been massive locations with giant swoops. I was able to witness one in Harry Potter as well.

Massive swoops around Hogwarts School indicate CGI heavily as Hedwig takes the audience on a journey around the area. The sound effect of an owl screeching makes the journey realistic. This is certainly an awe factor as the audience are greeted by a picturesque image as the castle sits proudly on the hills.

The extreme long shot of Harry walking to Hagrid’s hut creates his character to be small, vulnerable and lonely. This creates a sudden mood of sadness. Also, the Harry’s voiceover of the letter to his Godfather reveals why he is so sad and tells the audience what he is feeling.

The composition of this frame is wonderful as Harry is dressed in black and Hedwig being a white owl, suggests Hedwig is Harry’s only sign of hope on delivering that letter to his godfather. The mise en scene looks dry due to the brown grass and tiny bits of greenery can be seen portrays the loneliness and being vulnerable. The long narrow pathway suggests Harry has a long way to go to find happiness and has to face struggles to get there.

The soundtrack supports this mood as the wind instruments echoes the sadness, reflection and longing to be loved. This film is very realistic for the audience to watch as there are many comical moments, but there has to be serious ones as well.