The Prisoner of Azkaban sets the tone for the rest of the films

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban set the tone for the rest of the films. This is largely credited to the best director of the series, Alfonso Cuarón. His change in visuals and narrowed adaptation sets up the success of the rest of the series. This is where the series starts focusing on showing the content through Harry. Stories only make it into the adaptation if they impact Harry. ^[1] Cuarón’s visuals did a great job showing the maturity of this film and its great magical elements. The pacing of the film, the darker tones, and the camera nearly constantly moving creates risk and symbolizes change.^[2]This is a big theme for this film, with the kids maturing as actors and their characters maturing into adolescence. This film also showcased the introduction of Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Michael Gambon playing Dumbledore. The film was full of beautiful shots of great magic. The time travel storyline and the werewolf were wonderfully portrayed. Harry flying on Buckbeak and the night bus ride is captivating. The dementors, Patronuses, and Whomping Willow were all excellently brought to life. Finally, this film had two other great assets. First, the Prisoner of Azkaban had the best music with John Williams’ score.^[1]Second, this film had the spectacular moment on Hermione punching Draco.

[P1] Director Alfonso Cuarón sets the tone for the rest of the films. [P2] This is where the series starts to focus entirely on Harry's experiences. [P3] Cuarón’s visuals did a great job of showing the maturity of this film and portraying the magic. [P4] Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is the best Harry Potter movie.