10 things HBO's Harry Potter reboot should do differently from the movies

Although the Harry Potter movies are a beloved part of many Potterhead childhoods, they also have some flaws, which can be evident when reading the books. Though the movies have tried to bring to life the magical world of Harry Potter as much as possible, there have been many deviations from the source materials.

It is understandable that within the short time frame of movies, bringing every detail to life is difficult. The reboot could use this opportunity to delve deep and bring out a more nuanced and faithful portrayal. So, let us talk about 10 things HBO's Harry Potter reboot should do differently from the movies.

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1) Dobby’s role

Though Dobby has considerable screen time in the movies, the movies do not add several significant moments. The Harry Potter movies did not show Dobby’s involvement in helping Harry during the Triwizard Tournament. He played a crucial part in helping Harry find Gillyweed, which allowed Harry to breathe underwater, which, in the movie, has been completely changed.

The books have a broader portrayal of Dobby’s significance in Harry’s life, which the movies could not portray. A proper depiction of Dobby's character and more screen time in the upcoming Harry Potter series would be a great addition to the storyline.

2) Nearly Headless Nick

Nearly Headless Nick’s 500th Deathday Party is one of the plot lines that would have been a great watch. However, the movies did not add that. The Deathday party is a significant event, especially in the world of ghosts of Hogwarts.

It will be more appropriate since Nearly Headless Nick is an intriguing character that the movies did not delve into much. We only see a few glimpses of Nearly Headless Nick in the movies, known for his plumed hat and his head only partially attached to his head, hence the name.

Despite few appearances in the movies, he has remained a memorable character among viewers. So, his Deathday party and more appearances would be a great addition to the series and the creators.

3)Casting choices

Although actors from the movies have become synonymous with their roles, it cannot be denied that an age-appropriate casting for the upcoming HBO reboot of Harry Potter should be considered. For instance, Snape, Sirius, and Lupin are in their early thirties in the books, but in the movies, the actors are in their forties and fifties.

Using age-appropriate actors would bring forth the tragedy of their sacrifice at such a young age. It would amplify their bravery and add another heartbreak to their story. Although it is difficult to imagine anyone other than Alan Rickman or Gary Oldman as Snape and Sirius, respectively, an age-appropriate casting in the new series could bring new color.

4)Character development of Ginny

This is one of the significant points that the Harry Potter reboot makers should remember. In the book, Ginny is a multifaceted and complex character. She is witty, fiery, brave, and has a sense of humor. She is not just Harry’s love interest but so much more. She has her own interests, which she pursues apart from her relationship with Harry. However, the movies have diluted her character, making her unidimensional and leaving her character underdeveloped.

She is shown to be only Harry’s girlfriend, with little to no independent storyline. However, one must consider the time constraints while making a movie, making it hard to add many details. The series should delve into her character and give her the proper screentine.

5)The Elder Wand’s fate

The Elder Wand’s ending in the movie is a topic of debate among the viewers. It deviates significantly from the book. In the book, after the final battle, Harry returns the wand to Dumbledore’s tomb. It serves as a stark reminder of Harry’s desire to break the cycle of violence and obsession surrounding the wand. In the movie, after the battle, Harry breaks the wand and destroys it.

This scene lacks depth and nuance. The book’s portrayal aligns with Harry’s character. It emphasizes the theme of mortality and the futility of seeking power. The HBO reboot of Harry Potter should follow the book’s handling of the Elder Wand to provide a satisfying closure to the narrative.

6)Voldemort’s death

Voldemort’s death is yet another significant difference. In the movie, we see Voldemort’s body disintegrate into ash and float away. In the book, Voldemort dies like a normal human. He falls to the ground after the killing curse rebounds, and his body is left there as proof of mortality.

In the book, his death is un-magical, which reinforces the story’s theme of good vs. evil. The movie makes him a powerful exit even in defeat, which undermines the themes. The reboot of Harry Potter should follow the book’s depiction to portray a more meaningful and complete end of Voldemort.

7)Snape’s character

Snape’s character has been a significant part of the Harry Potter series, which the movies failed to portray on a deeper scale. Though his childhood was hinted at, it was not explored properly. Snape’s childhood is a significant part of his character, especially his abusive father’s impact and his impoverished upbringing, which he resented. Snape’s animosity towards James and Sirius has been shown in the movies, but the books provide a deeper context.

Even though the Harry Potter movies did a commendable job in bringing Snape’s character to life, especially Alan Rickman’s contribution is unforgettable, the reboot should explore more into his character.

8)Quidditch World Cup

Yet another letdown from the movies - the Quidditch World Cup deserved more screen time and proper depiction in the movies. While the book provides a detailed description of the Quidditch World Cup, delving into the details of the player's strategies and game descriptions, the movie largely skips it all.

The HBO reboot should include a detailed sequence of the matches showcasing the skills of international players. The World Cup stadium filled with cheering crowds and an atmosphere that perfectly grasps the regality of a Quidditch World Cup match should be focussed.

9)Neville’s past

It cannot be denied that Neville's character in the movies has been diluted and made unidimensional. Although the movies have mentioned his past, where his parents were tortured by Bellatrix, they failed to convey the depth of it.

In the books, Neville’s parents were tortured to insanity and lost their capability to raise him, leaving Neville to be raised by his grandmother. He visits them at the hospital, which traumatizes him. The pressure from his grandmother was also a major source of his insecurity. The movies also downplayed his capabilities, especially his knowledge of Herbology. A detailed exploration of his character and his past should be focussed on in the reboot.

10)Ron and Hermione’s relationship

Ron and Hermione’s relationship in the movies has been rushed and lacks the depth that the movies provide. In the books, their relationship grows over the years. From being friends to facing challenges together, their growing feelings for each other can be understood. However, in the movies, they go from disliking each other, Ron mocking and insulting her, to a sudden shift in their dynamic, which makes their relationship feel almost superficial, according to the viewers.

The Harry Potter reboot should follow the book and show how their relationship is affected by the challenges they face, which eventually strengthens the bond between them.