15. Neville Stands Up To Hermione - Philosopher's Stone
This scene is a testament to how far in advance Rowling plotted out her character's trajectory. The trio are a sweet group of kids, but they have an appalling disregard for the rules, and unassuming little Neville doesn't want to see them lose any more points for Gryffindor. So he bravely tries to stop them, doing something that is ultimately unsuccessful, but actually shows a tremendous strength of character. How many kids that age are willing to stand up to their friends, especially someone like Neville, who has so few people who are kind to him? It's a sign of things to come for the character, and a glimpse at the strong person that Neville will eventually grow up to be.
Audrey Fox is an ex-film student, which means that she prefers to spend her days in the dark, watching movies and pondering the director's use of diegetic sound. She currently works as an entertainment writer, joyfully rambling about all things film and television related. Add her on Twitter at @audonamission and check out her film blog at 1001moviesandbeyond.com.