Now, Bryar has requested that I discuss the actors who portrayed Bellatrix Lestrange, Sirius Black, and the Malfoy clan. Because there are multiple characters included in this request, this will be my weekly update. Next week I will discuss predictions for the coming DVD, which I might add comes out in 10 days (!!!!!!!!!!)! I digress.
Bellatrix Lestrange
Bellatrix Lestrange was played by Helena Bonham Carter, who has not received any formal training in acting (as a fun side note). This does not show, however, while she plays Bellatrix.
In the series, Bellatrix doesn't come into the plot until book 5 (Order of the Phoenix). Her character, however, is one of pure evil. Carter was able to completely delve herself into this evil; like I said about Rickman's performance of Snape, when Carter walked onto the screen as Bellatrix chills went up and down my spine. The resemblance Carter has with the description of Bellatrix in the novel is perfect, even without the makeup. That is not the most important characteristic Carter obtains for the portrayal of Bellatrix, but it is one that definitely stands her apart from the other possible actresses.
Though Bellatrix's evil nature isn't necessarily described completely in the books, I feel that Carter hits the nail right on the head; the maniacal laughter and evil expressions Carter uses throughout definitely help bring to life the character of Bellatrix. The scene that sticks out very clearly in my mind is in the fifth movie when the Order and the Death Eaters are in the Ministry.
All in all I would definitely say that the choice to cast Carter as Bellatrix was perfect.
Sirius Black
Sirius Black was played by Gary Oldman, but only appeared in films three, four (briefly), five, and seven (briefly). The character was killed off during the fifth movie, but still played a role in the remainder of the series in Harry's flashbacks.
Oldman was able to encompass the playful, rebellious and protective nature of Sirius, especially in his relationship with Harry. Sirius was more of Harry's friend than godfather, due to his incapability to fully take care of him, and due to Sirius' desire for companionship. These characteristics, I feel, were more highlighted in the books than the movies.
During the third movie, Oldman did a fantastic job of showing how Sirius had become weakened due to life in Azkaban, and how his spirit had dwindled a bit. However, I feel that Oldman could have done a little better in the fifth movie with showing more energy. Sirius, though an older man, was always described as energetic and playful. During the fifth movie, especially in the scene at the ministry, I do not feel that Oldman was able to show that side of Sirius, merely the protective and loyal side.
Despite the few nit-picky details, I would still say that Sirius was portrayed well through Oldman.
Malfoy Clan
I would love to go in-depth with all the Malfoy characters, but I will only choose Draco to go into fully. I will, however, touch on Lucius.
Lucius Malfoy was played by Jason Isaacs. Lucius throughout the series was an evil, but cowardly character, always described as having a "slow drawl". I definitely think Isaacs hit all of these characteristics dead-on. I definitely have no complaints on casting Isaacs as Lucius!
Draco Malfoy was played by Tom Felton. Like his father, Draco was also considered to be an evil yet cowardly character with a "slow drawl", which Felton was able to encompass as well. His Slytherin and pure-blood pride were also two main driving points behind his entire being. Felton was able to hit on this throughout the series as well.
My favorite scene including Draco, honestly, is during the sixth movie (Half-Blood Prince) when he is about to "kill" Dumbledore (I put this in air quotes because we all knew he wouldn't do it...coward). The gravity of the situation at hand and how petrified Draco was during the scene was something that readers could only attempt to imagine while reading. During the movie, however, I could definitely see the emotions Draco was struggling with. Felton did a fantastic job at interpreting this scene.
Up until the ending of the 7th movie part 2, Draco hadn't truly ever forgotten his debt to Harry and the gang, but due to his pride and cowardliness, he was never able to express it. I'm very glad that Felton was able to show that as well, even in the last scene when they run into each other at Platform 9 3/4; Draco could only nod in their general direction.
Overall, those casted to play the Malfoy clan made yet another fantastic portrayal of characters from the books.
Coming up next...
Next week I will be making predictions on the DVD, as well as discussing other topics revolving around the movies. The next two updates will be my last on the movie series, and then I will revert back to discussing the books. As always, any requests/comments/concerns, please share!
