Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix 2007

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.


The Order of the Phoenix is a clandestine organization established by Albus Dumbledore to inform Harry Potter, now a 15-year-old boy, that the Ministry of Magic is in denial about the return of Lord Voldemort. This leads to a smear campaign orchestrated by the Daily Prophet, aimed at discrediting both Harry and Dumbledore following Harry’s terrifying encounter with Voldemort from the previous year. The encounter has left Harry haunted by recurring nightmares, which not only depict the graveyard incident but also stir fears concerning the ominous Department of Mysteries.

When Harry arrives at Hogwarts, he discovers that Cornelius Fudge, the Minister for Magic, has appointed a new professor for Defense Against the Dark ArtsDolores Umbridge, a Ministry official who flatly refuses to teach any practical magic, convinced that Dumbledore is plotting rebellion against the Ministry. The inevitable clash between Harry and Umbridge begins, as she denying Voldemort’s return, punishes Harry for what she perceives as his “lies” by making him inscribe lines on parchment using a cursed quill that etches the words into his skin.

Outraged by the scars on Harry’s hand, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger encourage Harry to approach Dumbledore; however, Harry hesitates, as his relationship with Dumbledore has become strained since the summer. As Umbridge tightens her grip over the school, Ron and Hermione support Harry in forming a secret group tasked with teaching students defensive spells, naming it Dumbledore’s Army. In parallel, romantic feelings blossom between Harry and Cho Chang, culminating in their first kiss during the last DA meeting before the holidays—a momentary escape from the growing darkness.

As Harry navigates his complex feelings, he suffers a powerful vision depicting an attack on Arthur Weasley—his godfather, Sirius Black, hints at Voldemort’s quest for a specific object that he yearned for last time. Concerned about the burgeoning link between Harry and Voldemort, Dumbledore instructs Professor Snape to offer Harry Occlumency lessons aimed at shielding his thoughts from Voldemort’s grasp. The pressure of these lessons exacerbates Harry’s emotional turmoil as he is forced to relive painful memories.

After persistent lessons, one fateful session sees Harry casting a spell back upon Snape, unveiling a past filled with resentment toward his father, James Potter. As the gradual isolation from his friends deepens, news arrives of Bellatrix Lestrange—Sirius’ deranged cousin—escaping from Azkaban, thus exacerbating the impending threat surrounding Harry. Meanwhile, Umbridge’s Inquisitorial Squad uncovers Dumbledore’s Army after she illegally interrogates Cho with Veritaserum. Arranging to nab Harry, she is thwarted as the chaos escalates.

In an unexpected turn during a dull Ordinary Wizarding Level (O.W.L.) exam, the Weasley twins unleash pandemonium, launching fireworks that erupt in the Great Hall, momentarily distracting Umbridge. Amidst the chaos, Harry receives yet another vision, this time witnessing Sirius tortured by Voldemort in the Department of Mysteries. After attempting to use Umbridge’s fireplace to reach the Order, they are intercepted and trapped. Hermione cleverly leads Umbridge into the Forbidden Forest under false pretenses, where centaurs take her hostage in retaliation for her aggression.

With urgency, Harry, Ron, Hermione, Luna Lovegood, Neville Longbottom, and Ginny Weasley commandeer Thestrals to rescue Sirius. Upon breaching the Department of Mysteries, they discover a prophecy that Voldemort seeks. The group soon faces ambush from Death Eaters such as Lucius Malfoy and Bellatrix, revealing that Harry’s vision was merely a deception to lure him into their trap. As a conflict erupts between Dumbledore’s Army and the Death Eaters, the situation intensifies.

At a crucial point, the Death Eaters seize Harry’s friends as hostages, demanding the prophecy in exchange for their lives. Just as Harry acquiesces, Sirius and Remus Lupin arrive, battling the Death Eaters. In the midst of the fight, tragedy strikes when Bellatrix brutally kills Sirius. In his anguish, Harry retaliates against Bellatrix, but his attempts are fruitless as she escapes, taunting him with her words, “I killed Sirius Black!”

The climactic duel between Voldemort and Dumbledore unfolds as he arrives just in time to thwart Voldemort’s murderous intentions toward Harry. Upon realizing how evenly matched they are, Voldemort seeks to exploit Harry’s emotions to force Dumbledore into betrayal. However, the love Harry nurtures for his friends proves too potent, allowing him to repel Voldemort from his body.

In the aftermath, Fudge is compelled to admit the truth and resign as Minister, while Dumbledore reassumes his position as headmaster of Hogwarts. He clarifies to Harry that his distance was a strategic effort to mitigate the risk of Voldemort utilizing their connection against him. As the shadows of war loom ever closer, Harry reflects on the prophecy—“Neither can live while the other survives”—and, as they head toward the Hogwarts Express, he reassures his friends that despite the formidable challenges ahead, unlike Voldemort, they possess something undeniably valuable to fight for.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.


Formation of the Order of the Phoenix

Albus Dumbledore establishes the Order of the Phoenix to inform Harry Potter about the Ministry of Magic's denial regarding Voldemort's return. This secret organization signifies a shift in the fight against dark forces, aiming to prepare Harry for the challenges ahead.

Smear Campaign Against Harry and Dumbledore

Following Harry's terrifying encounter with Voldemort, the *Daily Prophet* launches a campaign to discredit him and Dumbledore. This leads to Harry feeling increasingly isolated as public opinion sways against him.

Harry's Nightmare Torments

Haunted by recurring nightmares depicting his encounter with Voldemort, Harry struggles to manage his fears about the impending darkness. These haunting visions also foreshadow events involving the Department of Mysteries.

Arrival of Dolores Umbridge at Hogwarts

Upon returning to Hogwarts, Harry discovers that Cornelius Fudge has appointed Dolores Umbridge as the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Her refusal to teach practical magic creates tension between her and Harry, who knows the reality of the threat they face.

Hogwarts

Umbridge's Punishments

Umbridge punishes Harry for his supposed 'lies' about Voldemort's return, forcing him to use a cursed quill that etches words into his skin. This abuse highlights her authoritarian grip and further alienates Harry from his peers.

Hogwarts

Formation of Dumbledore's Army

With the support of Ron and Hermione, Harry forms a secret group dubbed Dumbledore's Army to teach students defensive spells in response to Umbridge's neglect. This initiative fosters camaraderie among students and empowers them to fight back.

During the school year Hogwarts

Harry and Cho's First Kiss

As romantic feelings develop, Harry shares his first kiss with Cho Chang during a secret Dumbledore's Army meeting. This moment provides a brief escape from the foreboding events surrounding them.

Hogwarts

Harry's Vision of Arthur Weasley

Harry experiences a vision of an attack on Arthur Weasley, revealing a deeper connection between him and Voldemort. This dark link prompts Dumbledore to prescribe Occlumency lessons to help Harry shield his thoughts.

Lessons in Occlumency

Dumbledore instructs Professor Snape to teach Harry Occlumency as a way to protect his mind from Voldemort's influence. However, these lessons delve into Harry's painful memories, creating emotional turmoil and straining his relationships.

Escape of Bellatrix Lestrange

News arrives that Bellatrix Lestrange has escaped from Azkaban, intensifying the fear surrounding Harry. Her escape marks a significant escalation in the threats Harry must face, heightening the stakes.

Umbridge's Interrogation

Utilizing Veritaserum, Umbridge interrogates Cho Chang in an effort to uncover Dumbledore's Army. This invasive tactic leads to her discovering the secret group, propelling the tension further.

Hogwarts

The Weasley Twins' Distraction

During an O.W.L. exam, the Weasley twins create chaos by launching fireworks in the Great Hall. This act of rebellion provides a brief respite from Umbridge's control and serves as a pivotal distraction.

Hogwarts

The Rescue Mission for Sirius

Realizing Sirius is in danger, Harry, Ron, Hermione, Luna, Neville, and Ginny take Thestrals to the Department of Mysteries. They act upon Harry's vision, risking their lives to save him.

Department of Mysteries

Battle in the Department of Mysteries

Upon entering the Department, Harry and his friends encounter Death Eaters, leading to a fierce confrontation. This battle reveals the dire stakes associated with the prophecy Voldemort seeks.

Department of Mysteries

Tragedy Strikes: Sirius' Death

In a heart-wrenching moment, Sirius Black is killed by Bellatrix Lestrange during the battle. This loss profoundly impacts Harry and solidifies his resolve to fight against Voldemort.

Department of Mysteries

Characters

Explore all characters from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.


Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe)

Harry is a determined young wizard grappling with the burden of his past and the responsibilities of his destiny. He exhibits resilience and bravery throughout the story, though he struggles with feelings of isolation and the weight of expectation. As he learns to channel his emotions, his character evolves, demonstrating both vulnerability and strength.

⚡️ Hero 🌌 Destiny 🤔 Vulnerability

Dolores Umbridge

Umbridge is a cunning and oppressive figure representing the authoritarian side of the Ministry of Magic. Her refusal to acknowledge the return of Voldemort and her cruel methods create significant conflict within Hogwarts. With her obsession with control and order, she becomes one of Harry's principal antagonists.

👋 Authority 🐍 Manipulation 🚫 Repression

Sirius Black

Sirius is Harry's godfather and serves as a vital connection to Harry's past. He represents the struggle against injustice and the longing for freedom, displaying both love and bravery as he fights against Voldemort's forces. His tragic fate serves to amplify Harry's internal battles.

🐾 Loyalty ⚔️ Rebellion 👁️ Family

Hermione Granger

Hermione is an intelligent and resourceful witch who plays a crucial role in supporting Harry in forming Dumbledore's Army. Her strong moral compass and dedication to learning help guide the group through turbulent times. She balances her determination with compassion for her friends.

📚 Intelligence 💪 Support ❤️ Loyalty

Ron Weasley

Ron is Harry's loyal friend who adds humor and warmth to their adventures. He struggles with his insecurities but ultimately stands by Harry’s side against Umbridge and the Death Eaters. His character brings relatable depth as he balances friendship with his family dynamics.

⚔️ Friendship 🙌 Loyalty 🤷‍♂️ Insecurity

Setting

Learn where and when Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.


Time period

Mid-2000s

The story takes place in the mid-2000s, a period marked by significant societal challenges, including the rise of authoritarianism. In the wizarding world, this era is characterized by the resurgence of dark forces led by Voldemort, creating a backdrop of fear and denial that affects both magical and non-magical communities. The struggle between good and evil manifests through the actions of the Order of the Phoenix as they respond to the looming threat.

Location

Hogwarts, Department of Mysteries, Forbidden Forest

Hogwarts is a magical school where young witches and wizards receive their education. Known for its enchanted castle and rich history, it serves as the primary setting for Harry Potter's adventures. The Department of Mysteries is a secretive location within the Ministry of Magic, housing powerful magical objects and knowledge. The Forbidden Forest is a dark, mysterious forest that hosts a variety of magical creatures, adding to the tension and danger in the story.

🏰 Hogwarts 📚 Department of Mysteries 🌲 Forbidden Forest

Themes

Discover the main themes in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.


⚔️

Friendship

Friendship is a central theme in the film, as Harry, Ron, and Hermione navigate the challenges posed by Umbridge and Voldemort. Their loyalty to each other and the formation of Dumbledore’s Army illustrate the strength found in camaraderie. Together, they support one another through personal struggles and the pervasive danger that surrounds them.

🕵️‍♂️

Courage

Courage is exemplified through the characters’ willingness to confront oppressive authority and face their fears. Harry embodies this theme by standing up against Umbridge and confronting the reality of Voldemort's return. The formation of Dumbledore’s Army showcases the bravery of young wizards willing to take matters into their own hands.

💔

Loss

Loss impacts the characters deeply, particularly highlighted by the tragedy of Sirius Black’s death. Harry’s emotional journey through grief reflects the broader ramifications of war and conflict. This theme underscores the sacrifices made and the pain endured in the fight against darkness.

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