It’s rare to see a film adaptation provide a word-for-word retelling of its source material, but the Harry Potter films are particularly guilty of cutting scenes. Worse yet, some characters were stripped of their complexity and charm. Here’s a list of seven Harry Potter characters who were far better in the books than in the movies!
Ginny Weasley
The Ginny from the books is witty, independent, and bold. Growing up with six older brothers, she learned to stand up for herself and developed a sharp sense of humor. She had boys lining up for her, and Harry was too intimidated to even approach her for a long time. What do we see in the movies? A dull, lifeless fangirl who became a shadow of Harry. And let’s not even mention the lack of chemistry between Ginny and Harry.
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Cho Chang
Cho is Harry’s first crush, and their story in the books is a classic teenage romance filled with misunderstandings and awkward moments. However, in the films, she’s turned into a traitor due to being forced to reveal secrets under Veritaserum, a subplot that wasn’t in the books. This unnecessary twist unfairly taints her character and makes her seem guilty without reason.
Percy Weasley
Percy is a complex and ambiguous character. He betrays his family for the sake of his career but undergoes a significant redemption arc in the books, reconciling with his loved ones and fighting in the Battle of Hogwarts. In the films, his storyline is completely ignored, leaving him remembered only as a career-driven traitor.
Nymphadora Tonks
Tonks is a vibrant character with a unique ability to change her appearance, which is used in the books for both comedic and heartfelt moments. In the films, her role is reduced to almost nothing, and her romance with Remus Lupin is so glossed over that her death fails to evoke the emotional response it deserves.
Blaise Zabini
Do you remember Blaise Zabini in the films? No? Of course not — he’s practically a background extra in the movies. In the books, however, Blaise is a sarcastic and charismatic character who captivates others at first glance.
Fleur Delacour
Fleur is portrayed in the movies as little more than a decorative character, especially during the Triwizard Tournament. In the books, she is much more: independent and strong, she truly loves Bill Weasley and fights for her right to be with him despite his family’s prejudices.
Sirius Black
Sirius is a pivotal figure in Harry’s life, his only adult mentor and a living connection to his family. In the books, their bond is explored in depth, making Sirius’s death especially devastating. In the movies, their relationship is minimized, dulling the emotional impact of his loss.
