10 Best Subplots In The Harry Potter Movies
7. Professor Umbridge Takes Over Hogwarts (The Order Of The Phoenix)
Professor Umbridge is the most hated character in the wizarding world. Beneath the high-pitched voice and the pink clothing, there lies a foul, sadistic personality with no redeeming qualities.
As a loyal member of the increasingly-corrupt Ministry of Magic, Umbridge asserts her authority on the rest of the castle, determined to bring every aspect of the school under her control.
As well as patrolling the corridors and punishing any students who step out of line, Umbridge also inspects her fellow teachers, which leads to some of the funniest moments in the film. Indeed, her inspection of Snape’s class is laugh-out-loud funny thanks to Alan Rickman’s deadpan delivery.
However, Umbridge’s takeover soon turns sinister. She fires Professor Trelawney, establishes the Inquisitorial Squad, replaces Professor Dumbledore, and brings in an endless number of Educational Decrees. By the closing stages of Harry’s fifth year, she’s more of a dictator than a teacher.
Thankfully, this vile woman gets her comeuppance when she’s carried off into the depths of the Forbidden Forest. This is one of the most satisfying moments in the series and a great conclusion to Umbridge’s tyrannical subplot.