The Harry Potter movies have an incredibly dedicated fanbase, and despite being released over 20 years ago, audiences remain attached to the beloved franchise. The epic fantasy series includes memorable and magical scenes, and while it’s nearly impossible to pick a favorite, certain scenes stand out more than others.
The Harry Potter movies have lived on in fans’ hearts for decades, and the recent release of the 20th Anniversary Special has given everyone an excuse to fall in love with the franchise all over again. From out-of-character moments to wholesome interactions, these are Reddit users’ all-time favorite scenes from the Harry Potter movies.
Snape Protects The Trio – Prisoner Of Azkaban
Snape was a severely complex character, and while his true loyalty was discovered in the final movie, his allegiances in Prisoner of Azkaban were difficult to decipher. Despite being driven by his grudge against the Mauraders, scenes like this proved that he was capable of making good decisions.
When Lupin transforms into a werewolf, he is seconds away from attacking the trio. Seeing this, Snape wraps his arms around them. Reddit user pockets817 believes that this “was an early sign to show how much he cared for Harry.” While Snape’s instinct to protect them seemed like an out-of-character moment, it demonstrated immense bravery, something he displayed plenty of in the later movies.
Malfoy Breaks Down – Half-Blood Prince
In the earlier movies, Malfoy used throwaway comments and petty insults to try and intimidate others, however, his villainous role hit its peak in Half-Blood Prince. Voldemort chose Draco to carry out Dumbledore’s murder, and while many believed Malfoy was a coward in his choices, scenes like this prove that he was simply human.
When the burden of killing Dumbeldore becomes too much, Malfoy breaks down and cries. Reddit user goodbyereckless believes that “something about seeing him break down was a huge turning point for his character.” This side to Malfoy had never been explored, therefore, it was somewhat reassuring to know that he had a conscience.
The Tale Of The Three Brothers – Deathly Hallows – Part 1
The Tale of the Three Brothers is a unique and compelling aspect of Deathly Hallows Part 1 to the point where it stands out as many Reddit users’ favorite scene. Fans often note that Emma Watson’s captivating narration of the tale is what makes the scene so memorable.
When Dumbledore died, Hermione was given a copy of The Tales of Beedle the Bard, which included the story of The Tale of the Three Brothers. As Hermione reads the story aloud, it’s accompanied by an enchanting animation which Reddit user ubiquitous_archer believes is “probably the most beautiful scenery in the entire franchise.” The animation is no doubt a masterpiece and the narration allows the scene to feel authentic and timeless.
Harry Takes Liquid Luck – Half-Blood Prince
Despite featuring some truly heartbreaking moments, Half-Blood Prince is renowned for being the funniest Harry Potter movie, with plenty of hilarious quotes to prove it. Harry gets himself into tricky situations in this movie, but his out-of-character moments are the ones that Reddit users find most memorable.
Wanting to attain a memory from Slughorn, Harry takes Liquid Luck and as a result, becomes somewhat intoxicated. When watching it for the first time, Reddit user StormieDarkLordofAll said, “I nearly died of laughter. Wonderfully, comically done.” Because of Harry’s everyday serious tone, this new optimistic and enthusiastic side to him was extremely well received by the audience.
Harry Rides Buckbeak – Prisoner Of Azkaban
For a student of his age, Harry was fearless. While many of his scariest moments came from battling dark wizards or evil creatures, one of the most magical scenes in Prisoner of Azkaban saw him take on another daunting challenge, but this time, it was riding a hippogriff.
In Hagrid’s Care of Magical Creatures lesson, he suggests that Harry takes a ride on Buckbeak. Overcoming his nerves, Harry confidently rides Buckbeak over the grounds of Hogwarts. Reddit user Rustin-Timberlake says, “I love this scene so much – it gives me goosebumps every time.”
Neville Thinks He’s Killed Harry – Goblet Of Fire
Although Neville was undervalued by many, he soon earned his hero status and was more worthy than any other. No matter what, he always proved to be a loyal friend of Harry’s and was there to lend a hand did he ever need it.
Wanting to help Harry breathe underwater, Neville gives him gillyweed. After taking it, Harry remains submerged in the lake for an unsettling amount of time, causing Neville to cry out believing he’s killed Harry. Reddit user nerdgirl37 says, “that’s hands down one of my favorite moments in the entire series.” Neville was always on hand to provide comic relief and this is a moment fans can’t help but laugh at.
Sirius And Harry Talk – Prisoner Of Azkaban
Having lost both of his parents at such a young age, the bond that Harry shared with Sirius was special. Although he was introduced as an antagonist, his true devotion to James and Lily was discovered and he became a much-needed father figure to Harry.
Before escaping Hogwarts, Sirius has a heartfelt conversation with Harry where he talks to him about his parents. Reddit user AngelBritney94 says it’s their favorite scene because “it carries many emotions and the start of a wonderful relationship between Harry and Sirius.” In this brief moment, fans are given a glimpse into the family life Harry could have.
Dumbledore And Voldemort Duel – Order Of The Phoenix
It’s often believed that Dumbledore was the only wizard that Voldemort feared, and as they were two of the most powerful wizards in existence, fans were itching for them to cross paths. That long-awaited moment finally came in the Order of the Phoenix during the Battle of the Department of Mysteries.
As Voldemort is tormenting Harry, Dumbledore appears in the Ministry Atrium and the two begin an epic duel. Reddit user dreamwolf321 believes the intense battle scene is “the best” and is “one of the many reasons” why Order of the Phoenix is their overall favorite Harry Potter movie.
Harry And Hermione Dance – Deathly Hallows – Part 1
Friendship is one of the most endearing themes in the Harry Potter movies, and Deathly Hallows – Part 1 in particular, is a time when Harry needed his friends the most. While there are many wholesome moments between the trio, intimate scenes like this are the most memorable for some fans.
In what Reddit user goodbyereckless describes as “such a beautiful scene,” Harry takes Hermione’s hand and the two share a bittersweet moment dancing together. Reddit user PureAlpha believes it shows that “they can find happiness in such terrible times.” It’s scenes like this that some feel prove Harry and Hermione were soulmates and it’s a moment fans can’t help but smile at.
Amos Sees Cedric’s Body – Goblet Of Fire
Many fans’ favorite scenes come from moments of pure happiness, however, other times it’s the acting itself that makes a scene so memorable. Goblet of Fire is the first Harry Potter movie that embodies a darker tone and demonstrates the lengths that Lord Voldemort was willing to go.
After Peter Pettigrew murders Cedric, his ghost asks Harry to take his body back to his father. When Harry returns to Hogwarts, Amos’ gut-wrenching reaction to his son’s lifeless body is an agonizing moment. Reddit user giantrubberduck is captivated by the scene because “it feels so real.” While it’s not the most enjoyable scene, the performance is one that stuck with fans.
