In a way, the Harry Potter series of novels are some of the best personal growth books around. There are few series that chart their characters' growth and change over a number of books while weaving an epic tale. Many of the people who read the books and watched the films grew up in step with the characters.
With the final film set to release this weekend, the entire saga will come to a close. One easy way to track the progress of the characters is to simply look at the tones of the films. For example, the very first film in the series was very whimsical and childish. Now, the movies have taken on a much darker tone, with constant danger and peril. In fact, a few of the characters may not end up making it out alive.
Though still students in school, Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) and his friends Ron and Hermione (Rupert Grint and Emma Watson) are tasked with stopping the evil wizard Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes), who has returned to threaten everyone. Expect the final film to play out as one magical battle after another, as the characters fight to what is sure to be an epic conclusion.
Perhaps the most rewarding moments of these stories are seeing how the characters change over time. The character of Ron goes from being somewhat comically inept to an actual hero. Harry becomes more confident and self-reliant as the series progresses. Even pranksters Fred and George Weasley eventually become successful businessmen over time.
In the end, the Harry Potter books and films are ultimately about showing that human potential is unlimited… even if the humans in question have a bit of magical help.
