5 Reasons Why The Prisoner of Azkaban is the Best Harry Potter Movie

In the third Harry Potter movie, Harry and his friends immediately seem much older, and it's not because of their appearances. They have gone through significant trauma after battling Basilisks, being petrified, and fearing for their siblings' lives in The Chamber of Secrets.

Unfortunately, they don't get much respite as Harry returns to the Muggle world only to be ridiculed by his Aunt Marge and expelled from Hogwarts. He's followed by a mysterious, scary dog, before being discovered by the Ministry. To top it all off, he believes he's the number one target of a notorious serial killer, Sirius Black.

Everything about this installment is darker, from the themes to the visuals. The stakes are much higher, and Hogwarts no longer feels safe. Alfonso Cuarón adds a markedly different touch to the franchise with his distinct direction, making this film stand out from the rest.

Cinematography

Many viewers praise Cuarón's directorial vision - and rightly so - but much of this film's distinctness is thanks to New Zealand cinematographer Michael Seresin. The third instalment in the franchise is defined by its shadowy visuals and gorgeous special effects. This film feels magical in a less distant way, but also in a darker and more mysterious way, which perfectly suits the themes of The Prisoner of Azkaban.

The use of composition, staging, set design, costuming, and props all work in favour of the cinematography. Every single frame of the movie supports the film's core message and hints at its complex plot.

Harry's Relationships

In this film, Harry seems to feel more alone than ever - he even admits this to Lupin - despite having more support than ever. He isn't alone in his big adventure like in the previous two films, this time being accompanied by Hermione and a whole entourage of supporting characters.

Throughout the film, Harry makes the acquaintance of several new characters, including Professor Lupin, who becomes a mentor, friend, and confidante to Harry. Harry also comes to recognize that Sirius is not a foe, and for the first time in the series, he has hope of being part of a loving family. Harry's relationships with Hagrid and Dumbledore are also advanced, thanks largely to the whole Buckbeak dilemma.

Darker Themes

Each film introduces a new mood and tone to the franchise, but perhaps none of them do it as well as Prisoner of Azkaban. Harry and his friends are markedly older in this film, which becomes clear the moment Ron and Hermione start bickering more seriously. Furthermore, the content of Hogwarts classes becomes darker, from Divination to Defence Against the Dark Arts.

New magical creatures are introduced, like werewolves and dementors, which give the film a more threatening feel. The darkness in this film makes Harry seem more vulnerable, not only because he's ageing, but because he's lonely and at risk. He thinks he's being hunted by a serial killer, and then by dementors and the Ministry. Nowhere feels safe anymore, not even Hogwarts. His friends seem to be leading their own lives, going off to Hogsmead and not being affected by dementors.

History

Harry is only too glad to have the chance to learn more about his parents from Lupin, who knew them personally. He also learns a lot thanks to the Marauder's Map, which reveals to him that Peter Pettigrew is alive. At the climax of the film, the Golden Trio learn that Sirius and Lupin can be trusted and that it's Ron's rat who betrayed Lily and James.

Scabbers is revealed to be Peter Pettigrew, which is one of the most exciting twists in the series, and the Marauders' history uncovers a little more about Voldemort's rise to power. Harry, Ron, and Hermione also learn more about the past at Hogsmead. Ron and Hermione go sightseeing, while Harry overhears rumors about his parents and Sirius Black.

More Magical Creatures

With the introduction of Hagrid as Professor of Care of Magical Creatures comes a whole new array of said creatures. Though many are excluded from the film, the important ones still make their appearances. The third film introduces animaguses in more detail, thanks to Sirius, Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew, though Lupin's werewolf isn't exactly an animagus.

Dementors and hippogriffs also play key roles in the film. In addition to new creatures, new magics are also introduced, including Hermione's time turner, new spells like the Patronus charm, and of course, the Marauder's Map. It may not be a creature, but the Marauder's Map has a life of its own. It introduces a whole new ballgame for Harry, allowing him to learn new things about Hogwarts and its residents.