11 things the Harry Potter movies actually did right

Dementors

The Dementors are disturbing and dangerous parts of Rowling’s world, and the movies don’t hold back on either account. Harry’s first encounter with these creatures matches it’s eerie book scene, and that’s enough to give viewers goosebumps. The Dementors stop the Hogwarts Express and begin checking compartments, spreading misery and fear as they do. It’s a good thing Remus Lupin is there to save the day in both versions.

Dementors continue to play a huge role throughout Prisoner of Azkaban, and Harry seeks help from Professor Lupin, who teaches him to ward off the creatures with a Patronus charm. Harry’s practice sessions with Lupin and the boggart-Dementor, as well as the screaming and pleading he hears when facing the creatures, hold true to the book.

Also true to the book is Harry’s final showdown with the dementors at the end of Prisoner of Azkaban. After Lupin’s transformation, Harry, Hermione, and Sirius find themselves separated from the group. The dementors close in, ready to perform the kiss, as Harry struggles desperately to fend them off. They’re eventually chased off by the patronus Harry produces while using the time-turner.

Unfortunately, Prisoner of Azkaban isn’t the last time Harry must confront the dementors. The adaptation of Order of the Phoenix keeps the dementor attack in Little Whinging. It unfolds the same as in the books, with Harry saving himself and Dudley from receiving the kiss.