Michael Gambon's Dumbledore

[Clarke]

Will Michael Gambon live up to the role Richard Harris(:'() left? Do you think he will be better? Worse? Will they use a new constume for Dumbledore (thicker beard, etc.)? Could there have been a better person cast in the role (other than the obvious one of Ian McKellen, who we know doesn't look terrible with the long white beard)? Who would you have put in as Dumbledore? Would you change anybody else?

My answers:

I'm not familar with M.G., but I'm sure he can live up to it...not sure if he could be better, R.H. gave Dumbledore that really light twisted humor, and cut off sentenes perfectly (Snape: If you were in Slytherin, you'd be going back home on the train...TONIGHT! But, as it is-- Dumbledore: They are not.) I think I.M. would have been the perfect choice, even though I'm not sure Sir Ian McKellen (*is he a 'sir'?*) would have clad the white beard again. The only other cast member I might change from Prizoner would be, even though it sounds totally stupid, reusing Ian Hart as Lupin with a goatee and mustache, etc.? Make him look a little bit older. Hart was definately the best DADA actor so far...Branagh was a little bit over-the-top with Lockhart...:(

[Sebastian06]

Originally posted by Clarke (original post (http://www.cosforums.com/a/showthread.php?postid=406599#post406599))
Hart was definately the best DADA actor so far...Branagh was a little bit over-the-top with Lockhart...:(


But that's how Lockhart is! Branagh was perfect for the part! Hart was good in the first half of SS, but the way he said certain lines "ie, "Come here, Potter! NOW!") and acted things out in his scene with Harry and the mirror was just totally unconvicing and lame. He was a horrible bad guy.

[Llopin]

Gambon is a good actor, and I'm happy they chose him because I think he's right for the role. However, I don't think he'll act like Harris, maybe he'll make the character more lively, but basically he'll be Dumbledore. At least I hope he does so.

And I agree that Branagh IS Lockhart.

[tizzy weasley]

Like Llopin said Gambon is a good actor. If the WB believed he couldn't fill Richard Harris's shoes, then they would've picked someone else. I personally think it's a good pick.

[doctor23]

Not really familiar with Gambon so I can't say however my choice would have been Tom Baker who I think woould have been perfect for the role.

[Llopin]

Gambon is a nice actor, he has been in movies like Sleepy Hollow and Gosford Park, where he provided good performances. I think he's the right choice :tu:

[Clarke]

Thanks Llopin! I hope he provides a good, strong performance.

[DrSalty]

in the new trailer we get another glemse of the new DD's voice, i can't say i really like it. Harris' voice was warm, like an old grandfathers. it almost sounds a little feeble. Gambons seems too firm, i can't really tell just be the trailer, but harris has a much better DD voice. But i guess theres not a whole lot we can do about it, and i can see Gambon not wanting to copy harris, but i wish thy could have gotten some one who sounded a liitle more like him.

[Cat]

But Dumbledore's not feeble in the slightest.

That one sentence isn't much to go on, but I thought his voice sounded rich, deep and strong, which is how I imagine Dumbledore's voice to sound. Just because he doesn't sound exactly like Richard Harris doesn't mean his voice is wrong.

[MadMagic]

Well the one line we get from Dumbledore in the trailer is kind of a stern warning to Harry about the danger of Dementors. It wouldn't really do to have him say it in a feeble voice. I think he will be fine.

[Pegasus]

I was rather impressed with the new Dumledore. I think they made a good, smooth, non-obvious transition.

[Auror Williamson]

I was never too fond of how Dumbledore's voice was represented with Richard Harris. It sounded a little too meek and fragile for the most powerful wizard in the world.

I think it's too early to tell how Gambon will do portraying Dumbledore. One or two sentences of audio is not enough to judge him yet.

[DrSalty]

i guess thats what i liked about harris, he had this feeble voice, yet he was extremely powerfull, he didn't have to have a big booming voice to show his power.

[lorna]

Actually I loved Gambon's delivery when he was talking about the Dementors.
Different actors play the same character all the time.
They are never exactly alike ,not should they be.

[Weatherby]

I've merged these two threads together. :D

You're only punishing yourself if you're getting hung up on comparing two actors voices. You'll miss out on the amazing talent that Gambon has. That sort of ability is rare and he's irreplaceable. Please don't waste time missing Richard Harris.
He's dead and not giving Gambon a chance is a mistake.

I though Harris voice was out of character. He was too tired.
Dumbledore is energetic.

Gambon is a gem.
We're getting another pairing of Smith and Gambon to boot. We're being treated and we should enjoy it.

[rotsiepots]

I think Michael Gambon will outshine Richard Harris by a long way. Harris's Dumbledore was always slightly weary -- more of a friendly old man-type than the most powerful wizard alive. He was never that enthusiastic about the role and always appeared to be slightly resentful of the fact that he was "obliged" to do it.

Gambon is definitely sprightlier than Harris was and judging by the footage we've seen so far he will do an excellent job. Hardly surprising considering he's an excellent actor. :D

[Joulez moon]

Will Michael Gambon live up to the role Richard Harris(:'() left? Do you think he will be better? Worse? Will they use a new constume for Dumbledore (thicker beard, etc.)? Could there have been a better person cast in the role (other than the obvious one of Ian McKellen, who we know doesn't look terrible with the long white beard)? Who would you have put in as Dumbledore? Would you change anybody else?

My answers to this long list of questions

I believe that Gambon will live up to the role in the footage that i saw and heard from the two teaser trailers it looks as though he will in my opinion be a better DD. Harris was a wonderful actor for the first two movies but at the end of CoS i kind a started to think that he needed to be more.... um.... whats the word........ oh yeah enegry.
And i think that Gambon will provide that and i'm definatly wiling to give him a shot at playing DD so good luck to him.

Does anyone else know what Gambon has been in???

Joulez Moon

[hawk1245]

I think Michael Gambon will outshine Richard Harris by a long way. Harris's Dumbledore was always slightly weary -- more of a friendly old man-type than the most powerful wizard alive. He was never that enthusiastic about the role and always appeared to be slightly resentful of the fact that he was "obliged" to do it.

Gambon is definitely sprightlier than Harris was and judging by the footage we've seen so far he will do an excellent job. Hardly surprising considering he's an excellent actor. :D

I disagree. Harris's Dumbledore was a VERY old man (as AD is) who dosen't seem to realize his age. I think the way he displayed Dumbledore's humor was PERFECT. So subtle, not too over-the-top. I think Gambon will do well also. But come on! Who can deny that Harris said the "Earwax" line perfectly? :)

[gabby]

I really liked harris as dumbledore...but we really have no choice to give another actor the chance to like him as dumbledore. I don't think any of us can really make a decision till we see POA.

[TheShadow]

I think Gambon will act and sound like a better Dumbledore, but Richard Harris looked exactly how I imagined Dumbledore.

[Cat]

I disagree. Harris's Dumbledore was a VERY old man (as AD is) who dosen't seem to realize his age. I think the way he displayed Dumbledore's humor was PERFECT. So subtle, not too over-the-top. I think Gambon will do well also. But come on! Who can deny that Harris said the "Earwax" line perfectly? :)

Yes, he did. But that was the only joke he ever made in the film (not the actor's fault, mind you). Of course the humour was subtle - it was almost nonexistant.

Dumbledore is also appears incredibly full of life, except during the brief moments when Harry realises that he's not. Richard Harris acted fed up and rather ill. It's easy to confuse the movie character with the book character, but in the book, Dumbledore is really not like that at all. He is, of course, very old, but it's usually hard to remember that.

[sindatur]

I was a bit concerned about their two different body shapes (Richard harris being tall and slender; Gambon being shorter and rounder). But then again, look how tall they've made Robbie Coltrane as Hagrid.

Michael Gambon is a fine actor, and will do a great job I'm sure, and like others have said, will most likely bring a spryness to Dumbledore that Richard Harris did not portray.

I never considered Tom Baker doing Dumbledore, but, I think he would've been perfect as well, I can definitely picture it.

[true_heir_of_slyth]

Will Michael Gambon live up to Richard Harris' Dumbledore? I think so. You can't deny the guy's got an amazing talent- he's been outstanding in everything I've seen him in. As much as I loved Richard Harris, he was ill when he filmed CoS, and it showed. (but I loved the earwax line in PS... that was brilliant :lol: ) Judging by the trailers we've seen so far, Gambon should do a great job :D

[RubberSoul]

I can't wait to see Michael Gambon as Dumbledore. I think it'll bring a fresh perspective on things, because Harris' Dumbledore just wasn't like I pictured him. I didn't really see the sparkle in his eye. And while the earwax line was good, it was pretty much the only Dumbledoreness that I personally thought Harris embodied in the two films.

[SilverStar]

I never heard of Michael Gambon before he got DD, so we'll see. :eyebrows:

I don't like how Cuaron has changed DD into a hippie-type character. :td:

[Magi]

I like the new Dumbledore. With all due respect to Sir Harris, his representation of Dumbledore seemed too much like a frail old man.

[rotsiepots]

I disagree. Harris's Dumbledore was a VERY old man (as AD is) who dosen't seem to realize his age. I think the way he displayed Dumbledore's humor was PERFECT. So subtle, not too over-the-top. I think Gambon will do well also. But come on! Who can deny that Harris said the "Earwax" line perfectly? :)

Dumbledore only starts showing signs of age in GoF. In PS he's still belting around on brooms and leaping down stairs, for goodness sake! He's not supposed to be portrayed as a "VERY old man" and therein lies the problem.

Also, Dumbledore's humour isn't subtle. It's eccentric and rather off-beat, but certainly obvious (Nitwit, Blubber, Oddment, Tweak?). As Cat said, in the films it was apparently so subtle that it was non-existent -- I certainly wasn't laughing.

[Dedalus]

I don't like how Cuaron has changed DD into a hippie-type character. :td:
Isn't Dumbledore a freedom fighting, rather boldly dressed, long haired outcast? I don't understand why you'd think, even if that quote about his Dumbledore wasn't taken out of context, that this'd be wrong ... ?

[phoebeviolet]

From what I've seen of the new Dumbledore, I dont like his portrayal of the character. It just isn't Dumbledore-that's the only way I can describe it really. I'm also extremely dissappointed with Sirius; I'm sure Gary Oldman will play Sirius so well, but in my mind, he doesn't look like him. I imagine Sirius as a sort of Aragorn type.

[hawk1245]

From what I've seen of the new Dumbledore, I dont like his portrayal of the character. It just isn't Dumbledore-that's the only way I can describe it really. I'm also extremely dissappointed with Sirius; I'm sure Gary Oldman will play Sirius so well, but in my mind, he doesn't look like him. I imagine Sirius as a sort of Aragorn type.

ou have to remember, Sirius is supposed to be the "villian" in this film, sao they had to make him scary looking up until the big revelation, I bet after the shack scenes, his appearence will look much warmer. Just wait untill GOF, I bet his will look completley different!

[Morgan LeFay]

ou have to remember, Sirius is supposed to be the "villian" in this film, sao they had to make him scary looking up until the big revelation, I bet after the shack scenes, his appearence will look much warmer. Just wait untill GOF, I bet his will look completley different!

It's the opinion I wanted so much to hear. Definately, hawk, you're right.

As for Gambon - I like the hippie-like DD. Dumbledore in first three books is active, humorous, eccentric. I think this way in showing DD will get more from his personality.

I remember Michael Gambon only from Sleepy Hollow, and I thought he was great.

[SamIAm]

Michael Gamdon probably did a good job at being Dumbledore (from what ive seen in the previews). But i guess we'll just have to wait until the movie comes out, to see how well he actually is. I hope that he portrays Dumbledore the same way from the first 2 movies. It's going to be very odd to see him in a different way if he changed Dumbledore.

[Pegasus]

It's natural for a movie to be a little different from what you had in your head, especially with the appearance of the actors, because everyone will have their own interpretation.This is the director's interpretation, and from the little bit we've seen, I think he's done a darn good job. As Weatherby said, you will be cheating yourself if you don't just let go and enjoy the movie and its characters.

[Auror Williamson]

I saw Gambon in a couple other movies. One was by HBO on President Johnson. In my opinion, Gambon's performance was less-than-stellar.


On the previous page of posts, Weatherby said that Harris's voice sounded like it did in SS and CoS because he was tired. Actually, I've seen a few movies with him when he was much yonger and he sounded almost the same -- Such as in Camelot. It was the same scratchy voice that almost sounded feeble.


I'm sure that deep down, Gambon is a good actor, but I'm worried that he will over-play the part of Dumbledore.

[onetruegryffindor]

i agree with phoebeviolet but only in OotP did I think of Sirius as the 'Aragorn' type. In PoA (atleast the beginning) I actually had the picture that Oldman portrays very well.
Hopefully he will 'smarten up' as hawk says and become the quiet jokey hero and only hope in Harry's life *sniff* (denial is my only comfort)

[Cat]

I imagine Sirius as a sort of Aragorn type.

You mean Aragorn from the books by J.R.R. Tolkien or do you mean you fancy the actor in the film?

Sorry, that was a bit snide.

Gary Oldman dolled up in his 'Sirius' gear looks so much like I imagine Sirius it's scary. I imagine him with longer hair, obviously, because it describes his hair being much longer than that in the book.

By the way, I think Sirius always looks a little scary. He's a tall, emaciated man with a sunken sort of face and grubby long hair. He was scrubbed and trimmed for a while in GoF but he seemingly went back to his old appearance quite quickly for OotP.

Sorry, this is completely off topic. Gambon = yay.

[rotsiepots]

I saw Gambon in a couple other movies. One was by HBO on President Johnson. In my opinion, Gambon's performance was less-than-stellar.

I'm sure that deep down, Gambon is a good actor, but I'm worried that he will over-play the part of Dumbledore.

Gambon was nominated for both an Emmy and a Golden Globe for the performance that you found "less-than-stellar", so obviously not everyone agrees with your assessment.

I don't think you have to dig very deep to recognise that Gambon is a great actor. Just watch Gosford Park. :D

[verywierdperson]

We'll don't know whether Michael Gamdon did a good job until we see the movie. I think he'll do a good job though

[darklord_grindelwald]

Well, Gambon is a very-very good actor as others said that before me. Just watch Sleepy Hollow and especially Gosford Park, he is brilliant. So I trust him, I hope that I won't be disappointed. I had the same problem with Harris' performance that others have, I don't feel the spirit, the energy, he really looked ill and tired (and bored). He said that Dumbledore did not have depth.

Gary Oldman is a fine actor either. I don't know why so many people think that Sirius is good-looking. Of course he was good-looking, when he was younger, but Azkaban 'took' his beauty (as in the case of Bellatrix). His head is skull-like, (but his tattoos are great in the film).

So I think (or hope) both Gambon and Oldman (and of course Thompson, Thewlis, and so on) will do and excellent job.

[MistressOfMagic]

From what i've seen in the trailers, Gambon doesn't look all too much like Harris did. The beard has gone greyer, and Dumbledore looks like he's stacked on about 20lbs. It's hard to tell right now; when the movie comes out we'll get a better picture.

[Bee]

I've said it before and I'll say it again. No matter what Alfonso Cuaron's vision is, Dumbledore is NOT supposed to a "hippie". He is supposed to be exactly how Richard Harris portrayed him, and it makes me so disappointed that he's gone, because he was the absolute perfect Dumbledore. I was rooting for Sir Ian McKellen to come and take RH's place, but that's probably overly type-casting the guy. Anyways, I am NOT looking forward to seeing the new Dumbledore. I don't think Dumbledore should suddenly change drastically, it makes absolutely no sense. Due to unfortunate circumstances, the actor needed to be re-cast, however, that's no excuse to stick a hat on him and make him into something he's not supposed to be.

That's all.

[Cat]

I've said it before and I'll say it again. No matter what Alfonso Cuaron's vision is, Dumbledore is NOT supposed to a "hippie".


Oh, please! Would you even use that word if somebody hadn't said it in an interview first? He's hardly wearing flairs.

And Dumbledore is an eccentrically dressed man with very long hair. I think Uncle Vernon, at least, would call him a hippie.

I don't think Richard Harris' portrayal of Dumbledore was perfect. Which of us is right and which is wrong? Neither. So you can't say exactly how Dumbledore is supposed to be.

[Rowena Ravenclaw]

Oh, please! Would you even use that word if somebody hadn't said it in an interview first? He's hardly wearing flairs.

Agreed. He doesn't sound much like a hippie in the brief bit we got from the trailer. Nor, to be perfectly honest, does he sound like my interpretation of Dumbledore. Bit lower than I was expecting. But there's more feeling in it than I ever heard in Harris's interpretation (not through much fault of his own, I think - poor guy :sad: ).

We'll just have to wait for the movie to see the full effect. And, like Cat said, if it does turn out to be "hippie"-like, that's a perfectly valid take on the character.

[Bee]

Oh, please! Would you even use that word if somebody hadn't said it in an interview first? He's hardly wearing flairs.

Actually no... I wouldn't have used the word "hippie" if someone hadn't used it in an interview... I don't really get the point of that question...

And I'm not pressuring everyone on these boards to believe what I believe. However, in my opinion, Richard Harris's portrayal of Dumbledore WAS perfect. Now, that's MY definition of perfect... which is a whole other topic...

[Pegasus]

I'm sure that deep down, Gambon is a good actor, but I'm worried that he will over-play the part of Dumbledore.
How can you overplay the part of Dumbledore? He was so serious in the last two movies. He's not like that in the books. Harry was so surprised by his sense of humor at the opening feast in Book 1 that he asked if Dumbledore is a bit mad. You'll notice the serious, stiff professors painted a smile on and looked a little pained when Dumbledore led everyone through the "pick-a-tune" school song. Dumbledore is an eccentric, amazingly powerful old wizard.

[hawk1245]

Actually no... I wouldn't have used the word "hippie" if someone hadn't used it in an interview... I don't really get the point of that question...

And I'm not pressuring everyone on these boards to believe what I believe. However, in my opinion, Richard Harris's portrayal of Dumbledore WAS perfect. Now, that's MY definition of perfect... which is a whole other topic...

I agree with you. I think MG will do well also, or else they wouldn't have cast him, would they?

[DarthSkywalker]

I really liked Harris and thought he was a great actor but he was far to fragile looking. Dumbledore is a lot more out spoken and for a lack of a better word loud. He had a whole force to him that Harris lacked. Gambon seems to bring that force with to the character. And Dumbledore is quite the hippie.

[Needles]

I think Harris's Dumbledore was too greatly influenced by the steriotypical wise old man. He was slow, weary, and thoughtful.

But Rowling's Dumbledore... well... that is a jarringly different story. I think she did a great amount to distance him from the cookie-cutter style character. Others in the books were not above thinking that he was "a little off his rocker" at times... and he was a nut... he was spontaneous... he seemed to take great pleasure in life's simpler, dumber pleasures; like Sherbert Lemons for instance (perhaps he thought them amusing).

Gambon will be more-so channeling Cuaron's vision of the character, rather than his own conception... but it's just his powerful, sure-fire demeanor that makes him a good casting decision. Just remember that Alfonso knows what these characters are; he said Dumbeldore struck him as an elgegant old hippy. And despite the way some are taking this statement, I think it's right on.

[Cat]

Actually no... I wouldn't have used the word "hippie" if someone hadn't used it in an interview... I don't really get the point of that question...


I'm suggesting that, based on what we've seen of Gambon as Dumbledore so far (which isn't much) you would probably not critisize him for being a 'hippie' if somebody hadn't used that word first. You're accusing Cuaron of changing the character based on something he or somebody else said when you don't actually know what they meant by it.

If Dumbledore was wearing flairs, I might be more concerned about Alfonso's 'vision'...

[mirandam]

If the part isn't written well, then there isn't much that an actor can do. They can only deliver the lines they are given to the best of their abilities. I think Harris has gotten a lot of bad review because we all expected him to be funnier as in the book, but he could only say the lines he was given. I think RH and MG are both very good actors. I think that MG will do a fine job as Dumbledore. It may not be what we are use too, but we'll get over it. I also thought of Sir Ian McKellan when I first learned that RH passed away. Of course he also would have fit the role well too. I have to say that I have respect for both of these actors and I think the transition will be okay.

[Joulez moon]

Okay, some people is criticsing RH, oif you wanna do that then do it. I heard or rather i read that in an interview somewhere not sure. that MG said that when he got the part he had tried to adapet RH's irish accent, so if he is just copying RH he will make the look on Dumbledore a little forced.

RH for the first two movies had a perfect role for the Character but i think that even if RH hadnt passed away they would still have chosen another actor i think, if you all think about it long enough and watch the trailer carefully on the DD parts then you will find that it isnt such a bad thing to have a new person acting the same character. MG brings life to DD and that is what PoA is it's gotm ore life and more action from the older cast in it.

Well thats my piece said so if you all wanna have agi at what i said be nice plese?

Joulez Moon

[Bee]

I think MG will do well also, or else they wouldn't have cast him, would they?

Very true. I guess I have to remember that the people who make the HP movies possible aren't stupid, and they wouldn't completely butcher my favourite character. I'm still not saying Dumbledore will remain unbutchered, though. The real test will come when seeing the movie, I suppose.

[Weatherby]

The naysayers are coming across as being quite selfish to me.
Who could you possibly ask for that's better than Michael Gambon for the part? There's not.

He didn't sound deep at all. It's possible since I'm already a devoted fan I'm used to his voice or it could be that Dumbledore was angry in the clip that was shown.
People's voices tend to inflect and rise to higher octaves while feeling emotion and great actors have that ability.
Or maybe I'm just wrong.

[silver ink pot]

It's a sad thing, but even though Richard Harris was a great actor, to me he was never a good Dumbledore. Bless him, he occasionally captured the right mixture of humor and strength, but he just seemed so much more frail than the Dumbledore described in the books. He was supposed to move with energy and power, but Richard Harris always seemed to just stand there or sit there.

I like what I saw of Michael Gambon in the trailer. I really like his voice and it seems much more robust. He seems a more fitting opponent to Voldemort, that's for sure.

I'd love to see a Hippie Dumbledore! In OotP, one of the very best lines is when Phineas Nigellus says he always liked Dumbledore's "style'"'! Remember, wizards are described over and over as wearing clothes that seem antiquated and odd - to a muggle they would certainly seem "hippyish." And especially with the "hair."

I've always been sad that they didn't film the scene in the first book in which Vernon is walking around and keeps seeing the wizards and witches on every street corner - so we never saw the contrast between the muggle clothing and the wizard/witch "look." I'm all for the hippies - Yay! Maybe that's because I'm about the same age as JKR and I grew up with the long hair and crazy clothes.

[Neonorne]

I think Gambon will be great, and I do agree with what the majority of people hear seem to say: Harris played DD as too much the "wise old man" cliche, and seemed too fragile, tired and "grandfather" like, yes. Why, even Percy in the books describes him as a genius, but mad. Rowling said in an interview that she chose the name Dumbledore for him because she pictured him always bustling about humming to himself, full of joy and energy. I don't think Harris captured this very well in his interpretation of DD.

But I do respect and understand that those who loved Harris in the part have problems adjusting to Gambon. The only thing that bothers me is when somebody says that Harris is what Dumbledore is "supposed to be". I think Rowling is the only person entitled to use that phrase. And even she has no authority over all the vast variety of images her words have put into people's heads. Cuarón's interpretation is just as valid as any of ours.

I don't think anyone should let themselves be scared by various Curarón quotes in the media though. Three reasons for this. One thing is that reporters constantly misquote or qoute out of context when they write out interviews. They may very often seek to spike up what people have said to sell more copies of their product. Another is that Cuarón may have very different associations to the words he uses than we have. Who knows what a hippie looks like in his head. And finally, his medium is not words, he has not set out to rewrite the book, but make a visual version of it. Sometimes the artists are not the best ones to verbally describe their own work. Cuarón - and Gambon - should be judged based on the visual product they create, not by what any of them might or might not say in interviews.

[Yavanna]

I think Gambon will be great, and I do agree with what the majority of people hear seem to say: Harris played DD as too much the "wise old man" cliche, and seemed too fragile, tired and "grandfather" like, yes. Why, even Percy in the books describes him as a genius, but mad. Rowling said in an interview that she chose the name Dumbledore for him because she pictured him always bustling about humming to himself, full of joy and energy. I don't think Harris captured this very well in his interpretation of DD.

Hmm, very well said and true. I guess I never really looked at the difference between the book Dumbledore and the movie Dumbledore, I've been too busy comparing other characters. Now that you say it, though, Gambon's "hippy" Dumbledore seems a little closer to what we should get in the book. The whole "nitwit, blubber, oddment, tweak" kind of guy. Though it may be hard to see Dumbledore played by someone other than Harris, it will be refreshing.

[FoolOnTheHill]

Although I liked Harris' Dumbledore, he never seemed as strong as I imagined him, if you get what I mean. When I saw part of the new trailer and heard Gambon's Dumbledore talk, I was so happy. Just the voice sounds so much better to me. Harris' raspy soft voice was so un-Dumbledore like in my opinion so I like this stronger, clearer voice.

[Jinxie Cat]

I can't say I'm familiar with Michael Gambon's work. I've seen a few photos of him as Dumbledore and a brief scene in a PoA trailer. Other than that I can't say I've seen enough of him portraying Dumbledore to make a proper guess on whether he'll really bring the character to life. I really liked Richard Harris as Dumbledore and I hope Gambon will do a good job.

[Pumpkin Juice]

Gambooney! Did anyone else notice at Wire Image, that they spelled his name Michael Gamboon? Makes me think of Baboon. You would think a professional service like Wire Image wouldn't make a mistake like that.

Wire Image (http://www.wireimage.com/GalleryListing.asp?navtyp=gls====64202&nbc1=1)

[hawk1245]

I think that the films (and books) shift perspective. When Harry was younger, he sees Dumbledore as being a wise grandfather figure, but as he grows he starts to know Dumbldore better, and sees the more eccentric side of his personality. I loved RH as AD, and from the looks of it Michael Gambon will do a fine job too, it saddens me that peopl feel like in order to praise Gambon, they have to diss Harris, not a very good compliment to either of those fine actors.

[Katherine]

I was nothing short of VERY, VERY impressed with the way Gambon portrayed Dumbledore. A totally inspired and imaginative way to reveal him, as the choir dissipated at the start of the film. What a lot of people are forgetting regarding Richard Harris's 'tired and weary' Dumbledore, is that during the second film especially, Richard Harris was terminally ill with cancer, so OF COURSE he's going to lean a little heavily on 'tired and weary'; it's what terminal illnesses are all about!!

[Cat]

The Dumbledore in the PoA film was much closer to how I see Dumbledore. But I won't let Michael Gambon hog all the praise, I think a lot of it was also to do with the script. He did seem more lively and mischievous and his lines were actually humourous this time around.

He also seemed to have that power and wisdom, but this time it was without being - nooffencetoRichardHarris - slightly scary.

[loony miss lupin]

i loved the new dumbledore ...... but dumbledore has so many difrent levels its kind of hard not to play him right i think.....

[KCWM]

I just saw some show on a random cable channel while I was channel surfing about this next film. They had a good bit more of the new DD and I have to say these things about the new and old character.

I like the voice of the new dumbledore...its not as warm and soothing as I feel that RH's voice was, but I also think that is due not only to the new actor but the fact that the DD of PoA and on isn't always that warm comforting type character. I really like the...i dunno...authority in his voice when MG speaks his lines.

I think RH LOOKED the part of DD more so than RH does...but that is just me...with the longer beard not tied up, with the traditional wizards hat instead of the hat that MG wears. While I feel that RH looked the part, I do not think his delivery would have worked as well in this movie.

I really look forward to seeing this movie and I will be the first showing of the morning...that special showed a short glimpse of the time turner scene...and wow...I love the way the scenes have looked so far.

[Northcott]

I'm sure that Mr. Gambon did an excellent job with his role. I haven't seen the new movie yet, nor clips with him in it, so the following is not meant to be in any way a disparagement toward his skill.

Just as the younger actors have filled the imagination of many readers with a new visual for the characters in the books, Richard Harris did the same for me with Dumbledore. I hear his voice in my head when I read Dumbledore's lines; that gentle, grandfatherly tone with the subtle humour -- even when the lines are overtly humorous. A very dry delivery, always done with a straight face (though sometimes a little wink or half-smile after).

Given that Dumbledore's power is not physical, and that he (as a character) is not a domineering type who projects his power ceaselessly, but instead remains content to stand as the headmaster of the school he loves, the softer voice worked for me. At the points where Dumbledore becomes stern or forceful, I see it as being more impressive because this normally quiet, gentle man suddenly shifts gears: nothing is more moving than watching a person of good humour weep bitter tears. Nothing is more fearsome than the unbridled temper of a normally calm person.

I have no doubt that, had his health held up, Mr. Harris would have been equal to those moments. For those who want to see the ultimate contrast in roles for him, I highly suggest looking at the movie "The Field", also starring Tom Berringer and Sean Bean (ooooh! Now he would have made an interesting Sirius! Or Gabriel Byrne. Though I love Gary Oldman's acting). Harris, in spite of still being tall and lean, came across as a burly powerhouse; a powerful, indomitable figure who practically ruled the small town he lived in. His acting skill was astounding.

And since Mr. Oldman's role as Sirius was mentioned: while there are many actors who could have taken the role and done a fantastic job with it, Gary Oldman is perhaps one of the most diverse actors alive. Even without the use of makeup, the man is virtually a chameleon. He can look remarkably different from one picture to the next through his masterful use of posture, body language, facial expressions, and the emotional depth he brings to a character. If he learns to love the role, Sirius Black will likely become as popular in the film franchise as he was in the books.

[roma]

iI still prefer Richard Harris. Dumbledore is supposed to be really old (150+ yrs or something) so i was kinda thrown off by MG's portrayal of Dumbledore... it seemed to me that Dumbledore became 50 yrs. younger more by the way he delivered his dialogues... i dunno, maybe i have to get used to MG as Dumbledore now...

[Neptune]

Albus Dumbledore had gotten to his feet. He was beaming at the students, his arms opened wide, as if nothing could have pleased him more than to see them all there. "Welcome!" he said. "Welcome to a new year at Hogwarts! Before we begin our banquet, I would like to say a few words. And here they are: Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!"
"Thank you!
He sad back down. Everybody clapped and cheered. Harry didn't know whether to laugh or not.
"Is he--a bit mad?" he asked Percy uncertainly.
"Mad?" said Percy airily. "He's a genius! Best wizard in the world! But he is a bit mad, yes. Potatoes, Harry?"

That's why I preferred Gambon's performance over Richard Harris. Gambon seemed to be able to capture that part of Dumbledore where Harris did not. The quote above along with the first chapter of PS/SS described Dumbledor's personality very well. He's an old man, but with spunk. He's wise but has a great sense of humor. Yes he is old, very old, but he can still kick butt! Never in the books does he come off as being old, tired and weak, but that's how Harris portrayed Dumbledore. I don't know if he could really help that though...

Now, I can really picture Gambon in OOTP, in the Minister of Magic battling Voldemort. Harris on the other hand I would have never been able to picture it.

Remember, Wizards live longer then muggles, so what's old to us might not be to them!!!

[vynespie]

no matter what.. i think that first impressions do wonders.. RH is forever the dumbledore in my mind.. although MG did a really good job though.. keep it up! woohoo! The similarities are there.. as well as the differences lol.. know what i mean? heehee! ;)

[gryfgirl]

I think he will be great. As much as I loved RH, we have to move on and accept that they have picked the best replacement for the character he is to play.

[Cat]

iI still prefer Richard Harris. Dumbledore is supposed to be really old (150+ yrs or something) so i was kinda thrown off by MG's portrayal of Dumbledore... it seemed to me that Dumbledore became 50 yrs. younger more by the way he delivered his dialogues... i dunno, maybe i have to get used to MG as Dumbledore now...

Dumbledore's old but he has a young sort of energy and mischief about him. That is a point made a few times in the book, unless my memory is deceiving me.

[Da_Chinkster]

I think it is all about adapting to a new actor. DD didnt really have a huge part in the PoA so cant really tell how MG portrays DD.

[Drusilla]

I loved Richard Harris's Dumbledore,but somehow he seemed too grandfatherly,too warm,not someone who "worked in mysterious ways",and certainly not the quirky,nitwitblubberoddmenttweak-pronouncing man Harry sees for the first time at Hogwarts.He was a great actor,and he'd have made a greater Dumbledore had his health held up which,sadly,it didn't),but since he died,I think Michael Gambon really does make a better Dumbledore.The Headmaster of Hogwarts may be 150+ years old,but he isn't supposed to behave like he is.The power,the slight quirkiness-Michael Gambon captures it all,and I have no trouble at all imagining him blasting the fake Moody's office door off its hinges,or the fury Harry senses when Dumbledore questions Crouch,Jr.He's a good Dumbledore,and long may he live (I meant that).

[dobby likes me]

I agree with Neptune. I love the funny side of AD. The way he winked at Hermione was so cute.

[Northcott]

Chewing on it a little more, I think Patrick Stewart could have done a hell of a job as well. He can switch from quite warm and paternal in tone to forceful and intimidating in the blink of an eye. Man's got excellent range. He's also got the general build and facial features I imagine on Dumbledore.

Derek Jacobi and Ian Holm are also quite amazing, and worthy of consideration -- though the former doesn't jive with my general impression of Dumbledore's physical presence.

[rhtruluv]

Richard Harris RIP was a much better actor

[JillLuna866]

I thought M.G. was good. But if you put I.M. as Dumbledore, it would remind me much of Gandalf (LOTR) than Dumbledore and other people might think of him as Gandalf (unless they have seen the LOTR) and that would ruin the character of Dumbledore.

[RubberSoul]

Now, I can really picture Gambon in OOTP, in the Minister of Magic battling Voldemort. Harris on the other hand I would have never been able to picture it.
I like the way you put that...and it's true. I saw more of a rumbling power in the way Michael Gambon played Dumbledore. You could see both his funny, spirited side, and his powerful, serious side at the same time. And his portrayal of Dumbledore as a bit of a hippy actually works really well. His line at the end: "Freed who?...Good night," (or something of the like) was especially well-delivered! I'm so excited that he lived up to my expectations.

[Phoenix74]

I just saw PoA and Gambon is good, but I miss Harris. His voice and the way he gave his lines was one of the reasons, in my mind, he'll always be the perfect Dumbeldore. As for other actors, I wonder if WB considered Peter O'Toole. He might have made a good replacement for Harris.

Gambon plays Dumbeldore with a touch of comedy and more emphasis on Dumbeldore being a bit eccentric.

[Auror Williamson]

I’d give Michael Gambon a C- for his performance of Dumbledore. Just as I had feared, Gambon did indeed over-play the part of Dumbledore, and I fear we are stuck with Gambon for the rest of the movies.

Gambon was always too boisterous. He was almost yelling half the time, and seemed to never take the movie seriously. Harris, on the other hand, played Dumbledore perfectly. He was soft-spoken, yet stern when the occasion called for it. He also seemed to take his role seriously.

I’m sorry, but Gambon was no where near my visions of Dumbledore.

[Diagon Allie]

I don't know...I heard all good things about Gambon --I loved the "hippie" idea, but it din't materialize in the movie for me. Not much he said was funny, I didn't notice anything "eccentric" really. Also (and I know I'm not supposed to compare but I can't help it) Harris was more dignified and graceful, and Gambon seemed, I don't know, clunky is the only word I can come up with. I actually can't see him battling Voldemort, he just doesn't seem to have the power required.

[Northcott]

As for other actors, I wonder if WB considered Peter O'Toole. He might have made a good replacement for Harris.


Nice call! O'Toole and Harris were contemporaries, and had a very similar range -- along with similar voices and builds. O'Toole would have made for a very smooth transition in the character, though I don't know if he could have projected the same power that Harris was capable of when healthy.

Unfortunately, Mr. O'Toole also suffers from the same problem Mr. Harris did -- a very hard life filled with vices that might lead to health complications.

[Frankie Inkblot]

Gambon's DD seemed more like an old man rather than Harris's DD.

Dumbledore is supposed to have a twinkle in his eye, a warm smile for the students, etc. I totally did not get the impression that Gambon was trying to pull that off at all.

I don't know where some actors get the idea that they can walk into an epic character like Dumbledore and just change them. I know they're actors, and they're trying to set themselves apart from the others, bring out new things in characters, but come on. Dumbledore is sacred, and shouldn't be changed.

[RubberSoul]

I don't know where some actors get the idea that they can walk into an epic character like Dumbledore and just change them. I know they're actors, and they're trying to set themselves apart from the others, bring out new things in characters, but come on. Dumbledore is sacred, and shouldn't be changed.
Well, if you were expecting to have Richard Harris' clone play Dumbledore, then obviously you're going to be let down! It was a different actor playing Dumbledore this time around, just like there was a new director. Just because Richard Harris had the role first, it doesn't mean that he is the better of the two, and is therefore the example for any other actor that plays Dumbledore to follow.

[Moontrimmer]

I was a bit diassapointed with the new DD in the film. He definetely had the humor that the last DD lacked, but was missing the power and wisdom that just eminated from Harrison's performance.

Gambon's DD seemed more like an old man rather than Harris's DD.

Precisely. Yes I know that DD is supposed to be funny, almost sometimes kooky old man, but at the same time he has this hidden power that radiates from him. Remember, this is the only person V fears.

[Auror Williamson]

Let’s compare the Dumbledore’s of Richard Harris and Michael Gambon.

+ denotes things that are represented in books.
- denotes things not represented in books or wrong personalities.

Richard Harris

* Old +
* Eccentric +
* Serious +
* Seemingly Powerful +

Michael Gambon

* Old +
* Eccentric +
* Boisterous/loud -
* Seemingly not serious -
* Not very demonstrative of power -


Harris wins.

[RubberSoul]

That's a matter of opinion.

[hermione_g_004]

i liked richard harris better, though i can hardly remember what anything looked like in the 2nd and 3rd movie...must make mental note to watch again...:) is michael gambon the guy who plays gandalf in LOTR? my friend said it was...

[Sweetie]

I liked them both. They were different, of course, but you can't expect two actors to play the same part in the exact same way.

is michael gambon the guy who plays gandalf in LOTR? my friend said it was...

Nope, that was Ian McKellen :)

[hermione_g_004]

thank-you! i dont watch those movies that much...

[Silkeng]

I think Gambon did the best he could, he can never be Richard Harris, but we all understand someone had to fill the role. I think after GoF if they stick with him it will be easier to watch someone else be Dumbledore and not just see them as an imposter. That was my trouble, kept thinking someone should notice that is not Dumbledore. He did a great job it is not his fault that he is not Richard Harris.

[Inkwolf]

I think they were both fine Dumbledores.

Richard Harris captured Dumbledore's warmth, kindness, wisdom and affection perfectly.

Michael Gambon showed us Dumbledore's lively, humorous, peppery side.

Remember that Dumbledore is supposed to be a very remarkable and multi-faceted character in all ways, and it would take a truly brilliant, charistmatic and one-of-a-kind actor to get all of him onscreen, especially the way the scripts slash his role down to a few sadly short lines.

I don't think it's possible for anyone to be a perfect Dumbledore in those highly-compacted films. I think that both Harris and Gambon made highly creditable attempts at it.

[nikib76]

I liked Gambon I just wish that he had decided to use and English or Irish accent!! He used both!!!

[eobet]

I have to dedicate my first post here to express my sadness that Richard Harris died, as this new chap did not manage to fill his shoes in my eyes. To me, he didn't even wear the right shoes! As a little boy in the seat next to me said when Dumbledore (who is curiously never introduced by name, I think?) appeared in the movie: "Who is that?"

:upset:

[DarkThunder]

I like the new Dumbledore, he seems much more alive and strong.

[AgentUnderFire]

I really liked Michael Gambon's Dumbledore, despite the fact he was on screen for like 5 minutes! As previously mentioned, I thought the choir melting away was a good way of revealing him.

I liked Richard Harris's Dumbledore too, but I thought his voice sounded too similar's to RH's Marcus Aurelius in Gladiator, in which the character is close to death. He was more of a kindly yet mysterious grandfather figure. MG's Dumbledore had authority ("It is not in the nature of the dementor to be forgiving") and humor ("Did what? Good night.")

I didn't like his beard tie though. I didn't understand the purpose of it. Other than that he didn't seem too hippie-ish for me.

I thought they should have had MG on screen a lot more for POA to establish him as Dumbledore, but oh well. As mentioned, Gosford Park and Sleepy Hollow are good MG movies to watch.

[HarryPotter]

I think they both did an excellent job as Dumbledore...
I agree regarding the beard tie... I didn't like it, but well, it is a minor thing...

[pince11]

Both my sister and I assumed we would not like the new DD. We loved RH and after seeing the commercials for PoA, we just knew we'd be disappointed in "that new guy". Then after we saw the movie, we both agreed he was a very good DD. Much more spunk and humour. A nice surprise for us, as we assume he will continue to play DD. A couple of days later I rewatched the CoS DVD and was struck again at the weakness in RH's voice. SO sad, and so unlike DD. In a way, he will always be DD to me, but I did enjoy the energy and vitality of MG - let the battle in the Ministry of Magic commence!

[squirpy]

I loved Gambon. His dumbledore was actually alive.

[Hogwarts Lake]

I liked him but the beard was weird. He captured his "bumblebee" side but we'll have to see GoF to arrive at a proper conclusion because he'll have to be REALLY angry and wise :)

[RELASHIO Rachel]

Although I did really enjoy Michael Gambon's portayal as Dumbledore, I enjoyed Richard Harris much, much more. Each (as you said) showed a side of Dumbledore that we all love, but I liked Richard Harriss' Dumbledore better. Michael Gambon did a wonderful job nontheless.

[chomper318]

I, too, like the "new Dumbledore." While RH was wonderful with his portrayal in the first two movies, his Dumbledore was a bit too serious and grave. MG's rendition on the other hand was much more lighthearted--more akin to the way I imagined Dumbledore. Either way, both were great in the role.

[MissPotterHead]

I love the new Dumbledore. I don't think that Richard Harris played the kind of Dumbledore we all expected to see. He only came off as wise and old, but not the lighthearted, wacky Dumbledore I imagined. Michael Gambon finally brought that.

[glugunkwen]

I didn't like his beard tie though. I didn't understand the purpose of it. Other than that he didn't seem too hippie-ish for me.

I thought the string on his tie was a great little detail. I'm always putting my hair (not my beard - lol) in a pony tail to get it out of the way, so this made sense to me.

I wonder what our reaction to Gambon would be if he is the only one who had ever played the role? It is easy to say he wasn't as 'this' or 'that' as Harris, but if there wasn't anyone to compare him to I'm guessing we would have never questioned his interpretation of the character.

[AgentUnderFire]

I thought the string on his tie was a great little detail. I'm always putting my hair (not my beard - lol) in a pony tail to get it out of the way, so this made sense to me.

I wonder what our reaction to Gambon would be if he is the only one who had ever played the role? It is easy to say he wasn't as 'this' or 'that' as Harris, but if there wasn't anyone to compare him to I'm guessing we would have never questioned his interpretation of the character.

The keeping the hair out the way makes sense, but it seemed like he had it in all the time (I think?). Why would his beard need to be tied all the time?

It is very easy to compare him to RH, and almost natural. Look at all the actors who have played the James Bonds, Batman, etc. I couldn't really guess what the reaction to MG to being Dumbledore in the first two movies, as there are too many factors to consider. (And I haven't seen too much of MG either)

For instance, I read that RH had based his interpretation of DD on the picture on the back of the SS/PS book. (I don't remember where I read it.) Or perhaps Chris Columbus wanted RH's DD to be the kindly mysterious grandfather figure. I read CC's Hogwarts described as 'Disneyish', as very bright and cheery. RH's DD seemed to fit the atmosphere. Could you see MG's DD asking Hagrid to break out the brandy if CC had directed POA?

I think if MG played DD in SS/PS and COS as he did in POA, we might have thought of him as the whimsical, mad professor. But we will never know. MG's our Dumbledore, hopefully for the rest of the series. Now if we could just do something about the length of GOF... :p

[JackelPDW]

They should get Ian McKellen(Gandalf from LOTR)...

:)

[herbertsandbach]

I loved Richard Harris as Dumbledore and it would have been great to see him continue through all the films. Fate intervened and after Harris's death the film makers were left with a problem that they had to address they needed a Dumbledore. I feared the new look of DD and someone other the Harris in the role but after watching POA thought Michael Gambon was fine I enjoyed his interpretation of DD and I can strangley appreciate both Dumbledores without contradiction.

[DougJohnston]

I think if the beard was longer and whiter, and his voice not so deep and booming but soft spoken.

[~Tonks~]

I thought Gambon as Dumbledore was great. I miss Richard Harris and those are hard shoes to fill but Gambon does a good job. They should have made the beard a little lighter and longer, but I think he does a great job.

[glugunkwen]

I think it's important to note that Gambon was portraying a character, with his own interpretations on what that character was like. His job was not trying to copy the interpretation of Dumbledore by Richard Harris.

I feared the new look of DD and someone other the Harris in the role but after watching POA thought Michael Gambon was fine I enjoyed his interpretation of DD and I can strangley appreciate both Dumbledores without contradiction.

You are not strange at all :D My reaction was the same as yours! I really loved them both.

[AgentUnderFire]

They should get Ian McKellen(Gandalf from LOTR)...


Although I love IM and just love LOTR, I think Sir Ian probably doesn't want to don more long robes and beard, for stereotyping. He might want to stay away from more wizards, although I read on his official website he wouldn't object to a smaller role in the movies (I thought he'd make a good Barty Crouch Sr.)

Besides, we'd really be comparing Gandalf and Dumbledore then. :huh:

[sheilajsn]

My problem is that I first watched HP1 and then I read all the books.
(Can you believe it? I was a nonbeliever until winter of 2001. I saw the movie and I was so obsessed with the story, my husband got me all four books for Christmas)
OK, back to topic:
When I read the first book, I couldn’t picture Dumbledore as anyone else but Harris. And that’s weird, because that didn’t happened with Ron, Fred, George, Harry or Draco. But there are certain characters from the book that, in my mind, are exactly like the actors in the first movie (Prof. McGonagall, Hermione, Filch, Molly Weasley, Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia, Snape), and one of those characters is definitely Dumbledore.
Harris’ Dumbledore was tall and elegant, and he really looked wise and powerful. Gambon looks like hippie (not that I have anything against them), but he doesn’t inspire respect. Dumbledore (the guy in the books) is mischievous and funny, but that scene in the infirmary when he touches Ron’s broken leg was too much for me. Come on! That was the most un-Dumbledore-ish thing ever.
Maybe I’ll get use to him or the next director will change his outfit to make him look more elegant and impressive, I don’t know.

[Daltervia]

Don't know about Gambon....it was probably the script, but I didn't like the way he said: "What?" at the end, and walked off. I know that it is funny, and makes him looks very wise, BUT he is a bit too light-hearted...like the way he squeezes Ron's broken leg...

(Incidently, I thought that the rest of Prisoner of Azkaban, save the ending, was sheer brillance).

And what's wrong with Thewlis as Lupin, that bit on the bridge, when Lupin and Harry have their heart to heart proved to me what a good choice Thewlis ws as Lupin!

[curlyfry]

The 5 minutes that Michael Gambon was on-screen were about 4 1/2 too many. There are MANY other British actors that would have been loads more believable in the roll. I never expected a "replacement" for Richard Harris, but rather someone who would carry on then Dumbledore we know and love. What I got was an aging hippie (and I'm old enough to remember them when they WEREN'T aging!) who had none of the twinkle or sparkle ...

[Mafic]

I just wish they had kept the color of DD's hair and beard the pure white that it was in the first two movies. I think that, and removing the beard tie. And I really can't wait to watch DD vs Lord Voldy on film. The chapter "The Only One He Ever Feared" is one of my all time favorites. I just hope we get a director who can do this sequence some justice.

[WickedWitch21]

What I got was an aging hippie who had none of the twinkle or sparkle ...
I agree on the "aging hippie" part. I think Gambon's Dumbledore is way too light-hearted.
Dumbledore, as depicted on the books, is esentially and old, wise and peaceful man, none of wich was conveyed by Gambon's performance.
I also would have liked to see Sir Ian McKellen on that role, but I reckon he's tired of old wizards and besides, it would somehow ruin his Gandalf.

[siriusgrl]

I personally don't like the new Dumbledore. He looked too much like a hippee with his beany hat and isn't his beard supposed to be WHITE. His beard to me look GREY and it looked dingy. Dumbledore is perceived in the books as the "most powerful wizard". I find it hard to believe looking at Gambon as Dumbledore. He doesn't look powerful or wise. He looks goofy and silly. If they're gonna use him in the 5th movie they're gonna have to do some sirius (little joke) makeover to make him actually look like the Dumbledore we perceive.

[Shauna]

I think it would have been awful had Gambon simply tried to imitate Harris's Dumbledore. Gambon put his own spin on the character and I think it worked out just fine.

Shauna

[emerald eyes]

Don't know about Gambon....it was probably the script, but I didn't like the way he said: "What?" at the end, and walked off. I know that it is funny, and makes him looks very wise, BUT he is a bit too light-hearted...like the way he squeezes Ron's broken leg...


This is what I was not fond of either. I felt him hitting Ron's leg made him look dumb and silly. I also felt like the speeches they had him give were just weird. They didn't do anything for me.

He did do a good job, but I'll always like Richard Harris best, I guess. To each his own. When RH was very sick and in the hospital, he told the directors they better not ***** recast, it was his part and he wanted it. How very touching. :eyebrows: I miss him!

[Ana-Magus]

RIP Richard Harris!!!

The new Dumbledore made it a point to make the character is own - I think he did a wonderful job..... except for the fingernails.....ewwww.

[fawkes5]

I liked Richard Harris as Dumbledore but I must confess that I prefer Michael Gambon's version better. It's more in keeping with my image of the brilliant but madcap headmaster with a crooked nose and a twinkle in his eye. I didn't imagine DD as a hippie kind of guy but that didn't detract one bit from my enjoyment of how Gambon's portrayal.

[Mouseeek79]

I have seen POA three times so far and went in with an open mind concerning the performance of Gambon as Dumbledore. After leaving the third viewing disappointment still settles around my heart. Gambon will never be Dumbledore for me.
No power radiates from him. What a pathetic performance at the quidditch match. Hermione is supposed to be terrified by the power that he displays but there is no sense of this awe during the visit with Harry at the hospital.
This version of Dumbledore has also lost his wisdom and strength of character.
And he does not inspire awe, respect, or even laughter from me. I would not be compelled into silence just because he stands to speak. I would not go to him for answers and I most definetly would not believe that Voldemort would fear this particular wizard.

[ComicBookWorm]

I have seen POA three times so far and went in with an open mind concerning the performance of Gambon as Dumbledore. After leaving the third viewing disappointment still settles around my heart. Gambon will never be Dumbledore for me.
No power radiates from him. What a pathetic performance at the quidditch match. Hermione is supposed to be terrified by the power that he displays but there is no sense of this awe during the visit with Harry at the hospital.
This version of Dumbledore has also lost his wisdom and strength of character.
And he does not inspire awe, respect, or even laughter from me. I would not be compelled into silence just because he stands to speak. I would not go to him for answers and I most definetly would not believe that Voldemort would fear this particular wizard.

I have also seen PoA three times, and I also agree with all of your criticisms. DD is a man of power, wisdom, and humor. I didn't see the humor, didn't see the power, and didn't see the wisdom. I hated his beard, and I hated his costume (which looked like a nightshirt). DD is supposed to be a figure of power. You're right, Gambon would not scare LV. The only thing he had was more energy since Harris was probably very ill when filming. Gambon seemed like a headmaster, but not a great wizard.

If they want Gambon to work as DD, he will have to get better clothing and act more imposing. I can't know about the humor, it might not have been written for him.

[Mega]

Micheal Gambon is a fantastic actor and is probably a a better actor that Richard Harris. He has potential to be a great Dumbledore and maybe even eclipse the Richard Harris version. The only problem is that in Prisoner of Azkaban he was trying to be Richard Harris. Instead of taking over the role of Dumbledore and making it his own he was content to fake an Irish accent and try and act like Richard Harris. But he isn't Harris, he is Gambon. Now if Gambon realizes he should just play Dumbledore he's own way he would totally kick ***. Also Gambon can bring that pinch of energy to the role that Harris lacked.

[DarkThunder]

I have seen POA three times so far and went in with an open mind concerning the performance of Gambon as Dumbledore. After leaving the third viewing disappointment still settles around my heart. Gambon will never be Dumbledore for me.
No power radiates from him. What a pathetic performance at the quidditch match. Hermione is supposed to be terrified by the power that he displays but there is no sense of this awe during the visit with Harry at the hospital.
This version of Dumbledore has also lost his wisdom and strength of character.
And he does not inspire awe, respect, or even laughter from me. I would not be compelled into silence just because he stands to speak. I would not go to him for answers and I most definetly would not believe that Voldemort would fear this particular wizard.


Wow, I thought the very opposite! With respect to Harris of course, I thought his Dumbledore seemed very weak.

[i luv hobbits]

I reckon Michael Gambon was a great Dumbledore.... he had more energy and excitment and that really helped, because Dumbledore is full of life...

[jen15poms]

I have to say, I was not impressed with Gambon's performance. He totally changed the entire "feel" of Dumbledore that Harris had established. I realize that they are two different actors (as well as different directors) with their own feel for what the character should be, but I absolutely loved Harris as Dumbledore. I thought that he captured the essense of everything that Dumbledore represents. The twinkle in his eye was priceless. Gambon just didn't live up to the character that Harris had created.

[Lincoln]

I have to say, I was not impressed with Gambon's performance. He totally changed the entire "feel" of Dumbledore that Harris had established. I realize that they are two different actors (as well as different directors) with their own feel for what the character should be, but I absolutely loved Harris as Dumbledore. I thought that he captured the essense of everything that Dumbledore represents. The twinkle in his eye was priceless. Gambon just didn't live up to the character that Harris had created.

That's pretty much exactly how I feel. Gambon was all right, but he was a totally different Dumbledore than Harris and in my opinion less like the book version.

[ComicBookWorm]

That's pretty much exactly how I feel. Gambon was all right, but he was a totally different Dumbledore than Harris and in my opinion less like the book version.

That was my reaction. I thought Richard Harris nailed it, but it didn't feel like Gambon had read the books. I really wanted to give Gambon the benefit of the doubt since he is a good actor. But he came off tepid. I just didn't get the sense of power and majesty that Harris brought to the role. And the mischievious twinkle that is necessarily to flesh out DD was missing.

[fleur magique]

I liked harris better as dumbledore basically because his voice is so low and soft that it was exactly how I imagined dumbledore would speak, he is also a very good actor too. Gambon I thought that with the one scene at the end after Hermione and Harry save Sirius and Buckbeak and they tell him it is done, he says "I have no idea what you are talking about Miss Granger." It was the ecentric Dumbledore that was missing from the first two movies. Both however are very good and I really don't know who is better.

[Samus Erin]

I thought that Gambin showed more of the mischievous side than Harris, who was so noble and wise and brought out every part of Dumbledore's character. So I was disappointed with the new Dumbledore, it's just not the same anymore. It was like looking at a stranger play Dumbledore and it wasn't as good.

[ornjbreezy]

I didn't like the new or old Dumbledore much. The old one had that twinkle in his eye, but wasn't mysterious enough. The new one is mysterious and has style, but isn't serious enough. I still think Ian McKellen would have been perfect for the part.

[icecubecat14]

someone sayd on hear that the new dumbledoor wouldnt scare voldemort . Welli think we cant make that judgement yeat because we havent seen enought of him. Maybe after GOF...

[ponabelle]

I didn't like the new or old Dumbledore much. The old one had that twinkle in his eye, but wasn't mysterious enough. The new one is mysterious and has style, but isn't serious enough. I still think Ian McKellen would have been perfect for the part.

True i'd have voted for Sir McKellen too. Gambon lacked Harris' effortless gravitas and he potrayed DD more as a 'hippie' kind of headmaster above all else. The new DD definitely needs a wardrobe overhaul. Well it's hard filling in such a big pair of shoes such as the ones set by the late Sir Harris, so to be fair, cut Gambon some slack ok?

[wavy]

I thought Gambon was just fine. He really has very little to do in this movie though, and the scene at the quidditch match is hardly his fault - it was filmed in such a way that you hardly see him. I think it's always difficult to take over for the actor who created the role, but I'm willing to see Gambon in the next movie before making any final judgments.

[Tim the Wiz]

That was my reaction. I thought Richard Harris nailed it, but it didn't feel like Gambon had read the books. I really wanted to give Gambon the benefit of the doubt since he is a good actor. But he came off tepid. I just didn't get the sense of power and majesty that Harris brought to the role. And the mischievious twinkle that is necessarily to flesh out DD was missing.

The old one had that twinkle in his eye, but wasn't mysterious enough. The new one is mysterious and has style, but isn't serious enough. I still think Ian McKellen would have been perfect for the part.


Those two quotes pretty much sum up my opinion.

[shanobyl]

all i can say is that the new dumbledore does not have the x factor.

[RemusLupinFan]

I felt that Gambon did a wonderful job with Dumbledore. He had some very large shoes to fill after Richard Harris' excellent portrayal of Dumbledore, but I think Gambon did a great job. He stuck to the spirit of Dumbledore that Harris had started, but he made the character his own. I suppose the only thing I disliked was the fact that I was used to hearing Harris' voice for Dumbledore. He had the right tone for it, that quiet authority I've always imagined Dumbledore to have. Gambon's voice, on the other hand, was much louder and stronger, so it took me a minute to get used to that. But on the whole, I give two thumbs up to Gambon's performance as Dumbledore. :tu: :tu:

[DrummerboyDT]

Richard Harris's version was how I always pictured Dumbledore. It seemed like his quieter voice demanded more attention. Dumbledore is an old man. He seemed very patient, straight-forward, and wise, but yet very powerful. You could just hear it in his voice.

Gambon, on the other hand, has the look for Dumbledore. He has the acting ability, but I think he loses the believability with his voice. He sounds like the other younger professors. It makes his voice blend in with the others without having that uniqueness. It seems like that if he were to sit down and give his little talk with Harry, it would not seem as believable.

[SquibOnline]

If Michael Gambon played Dumbledore from the beginning I doubt that there would be complaints like this. The reason is because they are two different types of actor.

[FluffyEarmuffs]

I loved the Michael Gambon as Dumbledore. He made him seem more energetic, and the bit about the strawberries was v. funny. It was also funny how he had his beared tied up with sparkely stars in it. I didnt like his robes though. They were the same all the way through the film, and werent smart enough for dumbledore. However in the 1st 2 films the robes were too bulky so dumbledore looked fat, and they were too short for him.

[Jaguar]

I so much preferred Gambon's Dumbledore. To me, he was the Dumbledore that I had imagined in my head- on the outside, he presents himself as slightly dippy but on the inside you know that's he's watching everything, taking everything in etc. The other Dumbledore just seemed a bit...bumbling to me, if you know what I mean?

[Hermywormy]

I have seen POA three times so far and went in with an open mind concerning the performance of Gambon as Dumbledore. After leaving the third viewing disappointment still settles around my heart. Gambon will never be Dumbledore for me.
No power radiates from him. What a pathetic performance at the quidditch match. Hermione is supposed to be terrified by the power that he displays but there is no sense of this awe during the visit with Harry at the hospital.
This version of Dumbledore has also lost his wisdom and strength of character.
And he does not inspire awe, respect, or even laughter from me. I would not be compelled into silence just because he stands to speak. I would not go to him for answers and I most definetly would not believe that Voldemort would fear this particular wizard.

Here here! I thought that from the moment I saw him on the screen. I only Harris didn't die! Oh well. I heard they might bring back a technical version of Harris. That's how popular he was! I don't think they should, but that's not really the point...

[sheilajsn]

For me, Harris is Dumbledore.
However, I think I can get used to Gambon (it’s not like I have a choice :huh: ), but can somebody do something about his outfit! I did like the robes that Harris used to wear. They made him look so elegant and magnificent; that’s the way I picture Dumbledore.

[snape_sinclaire]

I think Richard Harris was a better Dumbledore. Gambon's DD annoyed me because almost every time he spoke he had to say something philosophical. I could live with it though, if they change his image to something more imposing, yet fun and friendly.

[morgan le fay]

while some here prefer a more "energetic" dumbledore, its not how i imagined him. while he is perhaps the most powerful wizard of recent memory, he is old, enigmatic, mysterious, and sage. even though he is not weak, i imagined him as fragile in a misleading way. gambon's dumbledore is in no way mysterious and seems too straightforward to me. while i prefered the voice of harris's dumbledore, the voice of gambon's may be too strong for my taste, but as said before, if he takes the role and makes it his own, this can be overlooked.

dumbledore should be a majestic character, and gambon's presence was not majestic in the slightest, IMO.

[Aoweil]

I much prefer Richard Harris's Dumbledore. Gambon did an all right job, he made me smile at times, but his Dumbledore couldn't touch Harris's for the same reasons that Mouseeek79 gave:


This version of Dumbledore has also lost his wisdom and strength of character.
And he does not inspire awe, respect, or even laughter from me. I would not be compelled into silence just because he stands to speak. I would not go to him for answers and I most definetly would not believe that Voldemort would fear this particular wizard.

Indeed, the random pearls of wisdom that the new Dumbledore liked to give didn't really convey the sense of wisdom that Dumbledore is supposed to have. I didn't care for his voice or his clothes either. Oh well, I still like the movie overall anyway. :)

[myongja]

The new Dumbledore seemed kind of crazy to me. Instead of seeing a very wise old man I saw an old man that was loosing his mind. I know that this is kind of harsh but that's how it came across to me. Richard Harris was the perfect Dumbledore. He was everything that I had imagined and more. I don't think that any actor could expect to live up to his performance, but i do think that they could've done a better job than this. I don't like the fact that they tried to change Dumbledore just because a new actor came in. The characters should stay the same and follow the books, not the actors. I didn't like Dumbledore's new clothes either, I mean what was up with that hat?! I also thought it strange that in the quidditch scene Dumbledore slows Harrys fall by using his hands instead of his wand. That seems to me like something out of Star Wars, not out of Harry Potter.

[v@sh]

Richard Harris's version was how I always pictured Dumbledore. It seemed like his quieter voice demanded more attention. Dumbledore is an old man. He seemed very patient, straight-forward, and wise, but yet very powerful. You could just hear it in his voice.

Gambon, on the other hand, has the look for Dumbledore. He has the acting ability, but I think he loses the believability with his voice. He sounds like the other younger professors. It makes his voice blend in with the others without having that uniqueness. It seems like that if he were to sit down and give his little talk with Harry, it would not seem as believable.


Same here. Dumbledore is always described as an old, weak, and wise yet powerful and exuding strength when required. Harris I felt was that and was way closer, if not exactly how I feel DD is in the books. Not to mention the twinkle in the eyes of Harris, pure Dumbledore.

I have always wondered what Gambon would be like in OOTP, I just can't picture him in a one-on-one talk with Harry. He doesn't act grandfatherly enough.

[emma madison]

Richard Harris was perfect for the role. Too bad his time came to pass. :upset:

Michael Gambon's alright, he's funny... I don't feel the sage-like wisdom aura from him though. He's more like just the hip funny crazy old headmaster. :shrug:

[Sturgis Podmore]

Richard Harris was a superb actor for the role. What makes him Dumbledore is his voice. His gentle voice is just how i imagined it and is just fantastic for the role!!
Such a shame his time came.

[jellyjames]

True, true. It's the voice that makes Dumbledore memorable. That soft, breathy, gentle voice. MG's good too. He brings out DD's humour but the gentleness is gone.

[stormcat_5000]

I never expected a perfect portrayal of Dumbledore in th first place DD is a complex character with Undercurrents of more complex emotions. Richard Harris showed some of DD's stronger qualities relating to the inner strength & power of DD , while Gambon shows DD's playful qualities making him very human ,too human ,we dont feel the hidden strength of DD the way we felt in PS/SS when Harris Yells "SILENCE!" in the Halloween Feast.
But perfection cannot be Achieved DD is too complex to be Disected into a certian Frame by Kloves or Curaron Or Columbus.
DD's portayal will never be completely satisfatory!

[jo schmo]

i agree that gambon did not command the authority. i think that Ian McKellen would make an excellent DD. His portrayal of gandalf in LotR reminded me so much of DD it gave me chills. He has the voice and gives off a great sense of wisdom and authority.

[londonknight]

I think they went away from Sir Ian precisely for the reason that he was Gandalf. The role is too similar between the two series that it can cause conflict in style. If Sir Ian put a Gandalf feel into Dumbledore then diehard HP fans would notice this right away and start screaming their heads off. Just like if Ian did the first LOTR film, and then Harris or Gambon came in and Dumbledore'd the role the LOTR fans would snap.

I liked Gambon in the role. He did a good job especially considering he was the first person to have to deal with a predecessor in their role. I am glad that he didn't try and emulate Richard Harris, although I must say that I did rather enjoy the tone of voice that Harris gave to Dumbledore. He had the ability to speak with a whisper yet still command presence, which is something that I really felt was an appropriate trait of Dumbledore's. The fact that he is so kind and forgiving but at the same time he always commands respect.

Gambon did not recreate the whispery voice, and the considerably lower tones sound awkward to me at this point. Some of the lines just didn't feel the same. But I am sure that come GoF that they will be quite comfortable to hear.

The one thing is that I feel that Gambon provides a better physical presence, which I think is quite possibly the biggest addition. The role of Dumbledore will only get more demanding as time goes on, and while Gambon isn't exactly young, he is 10 years younger than Richard Harris was.

[nextsuperhero]

I am torn between the two actors. Harris had an unmistakable twinkle in his eye. like dumbledore should. but he was just soo... frail. he was hard to listen to. I thought he might crumble right before my eyes. DD is the most powerfull wizard ever. He shouldn't crumble. So I suppose that's why I like Gambon More. he is the power of dumbledore

[onyxmoon]

i think that harris was a better dumbledore, he had a sort of grandfather aura around him but he also seemed strict. i+m not saying that gambon was bad. he just seemed to me like the potter puppet pals dumbledore, a bit "off". if you get my point.
i thought that he didn't know where he was or what he was doing, he would show upe suddenly, say few lines and then go away. my constant reaction was "what the heck was that about?"

[IceKat55]

I am torn between the two actors. Harris had an unmistakable twinkle in his eye. like dumbledore should. but he was just soo... frail. he was hard to listen to. I thought he might crumble right before my eyes. DD is the most powerfull wizard ever. He shouldn't crumble. So I suppose that's why I like Gambon More. he is the power of dumbledore
I agree. Richard Harris, God rest him, was an incredible actor...but he was very clearly in poor health. In CoS, some of his scenes are little more than whispers. Dumbledore is described in the books as having great energy, as well as strength. I adored Harris as Dumbledore...but Gambon's portrayal is more how I pictured the character from the books...more of a "spring in his step" kinda thing. :)

[ambiyluvsron]

i liked richard harris way better his voice waz so kool :tu: !! michal gambom :td: (how ever you spell it) i didnt like leave him in lord of the rings hes good in there...

[IceKat55]

i liked richard harris way better his voice waz so kool :tu: !! michal gambom :td: (how ever you spell it) i didnt like leave him in lord of the rings hes good in there...
:huh:
Michael Gambon is not in Lord Of The Rings. That was Ian McKellen, as Gandalf.

[Gwenog Jones]

Personally, I feel Dumbledore portrayed Dumbledore better than Harris. Harris was just too soft spoken and frail for me. How could someone like that be one of the greatest wizards ever?! Dumbledore is a very strong character, and also humorous at times. I feel that Gambon captured more of what I thought Dumbledore would be like.

[Credo Buffa]

I'm torn like so many of you. I think Richard Harris had the softer side of Dumbledore perfect, the side that comforts you just by saying a few words and being so calm and quiet, the side that has obviously lived a very long life and is very wise because of it. That fits well for the Dumbledore we see in the first few books. However, Gambon has the mischievous, spritely side that suggests something more active than just intellect lurking underneath the "old man" exterior, which I think is much more appropriate to the Dumbledore we see later in the series.

I guess you could say that, when I read, Richard Harris is closer to the Dumbledore I see giving long, thoughtful explanations to Harry and giving him moral insight. Michael Gambon is the Dumbledore that pops lemon drops and is "the only one Voldemort ever feared."

[Tane]

Richard Harris was missed over the first 30 minutes of PoA but I soon got use to Gambon's style and he was especially good in the time turner scene. I think Gambon will make a great Dumbledore and no doubt but a little more forceful in tone when needed, such as the fake Mad-Eye Moody clip which no doubt will be in GoF as it is crucial to the plot.

[IheartLupin12]

Richard Harris played a wonderful Dumbledore.. and I was curious to see how Gambon was going to play DD...after seeing PoA I was pleased with Gambon. I agree with people who have been saying Harris was more of a "Grandfatherly" DD..but I think Gambon will be great for the next 2 movies. The scene in ootp "..hes got style"(you all know what I'm talking about!) will be wonderful with Gambon playing DD...provided hes in the movie and they decide to keep that scene in...if they dont, i will not be a happy girl.
After my rambling...I do like Gambon as Dumbledore...he tends to catch the humorous side of DD a little more than Harris did,yet he is a very powerful speaker, and I think this will be important in the next movies.

[Potters Goblet]

I'll get used to Gambon but Richard Harris will always be Dumbledore in my eyes. I will miss him as an actor. Not in just the Harry Potter movies. He was a great character actor. Always believable whether playing a good guy or a bad guy.... He was always able to play things very mysteriously. Often times you never really knew whether he was a good guy or a bad guy. Especially the way he played Dumbledore. There was always that mysteriously-nagging question. What if....?

[gambonrules]

Someone on a thread mentioned that Gambon fitted much better come the later books GOF,OOTP and I couldn't agree more. By the time GOF comes out providing he's been given a bit more to do everyone will be used to Gambon I think.

[Potters Goblet]

Someone on a thread mentioned that Gambon fitted much better come the later books GOF,OOTP and I couldn't agree more. By the time GOF comes out providing he's been given a bit more to do everyone will be used to Gambon I think.
I believe you're right. The first two movies are so long gone that unless you own them, you don't really remember Richard Harris as Dumbledore... The average person's going to remember the last thing they saw. and that was Gambon.

To be fair I'm willing to accept him as DUmbledore. Just that Harris will always have a special place in my heart.

[HesHPfan]

I tought that M. Gambon did a great job, altough he didn't had a lot to do. It is always difficult to replace an actor, because people will get easier used to the first version. But since Dumbledore isn't the most important character it isn't too big a problem. If they would change the childeren, it is quite a different story. That wouldn't do the movies any good.
Gambon is one of Irelands finest actors and always a pleasure to see on screen. Loved him in Wives and Daughters.

[alexfromgreece]

Gambon didn't really catch the air of DD. I hope McKellen takes the job. He has played the old mad wizard well enough in LotR.

[dawningoftime]

I like Gambon as Dumbledore. I think that Harris was good for the first two movies because in the first two books Dumbledore is more of a grandfather figure. However as the movies get more intense Dumbledore has more of a firmness about him. I wouldn't have wanted Ian McKellen as Dumbledore even though he'd probably do a good job at it. That gets into type casting and probably something that McKellen would want to avoid.

[Stan_Shunpike]

I liked Gambon's Dumbledore, but the way Harris' DD got the whole school to be quiet just by shouting 'SILENCE' made him the real Dumbledore for me. It showed his power - he'd have been great in the duel scene in OotP.

[mistymoon]

I think Richard Harris was the perfect Dumbledore but Michael Gambon is doing a great job as well.

[Kevin]

Richard Harris was perfect for the role of Dumbledore. But the Harry Potter books get darker. Which is why i think Gambon was the best choice to fill in Richard Harris's shoes. Don't judge Gambon yet. I'm looking forward to seeing him stunning Barty Jnr through the door myself, in the goblet of fire. Though i don't think anybody really noticed how Gambon managed to be all light hearted one minute and then Deadly serious about the dementors. And then back to being light hearted. That shows Dumbledores real power. It's not his magical power that makes him the greatest wizard of the age (according to some people in the books), its the fact that he has an extensive knowledge of not only Magic, but life itself. What makes Dumbledore and Voldemort stand out from the rest of the wizarding world ? Dumbledore because he does not care what blood you have, but what a person grows to be. Voldemort however is caught between two worlds. On the one hand he sees being a pure blood as the ultimate wizard, but on the other hand is a half blood. And so his hatred of everything, blood type or love drove him to what he became. A powerful Wizard who does not care for what Blood you have, only how he can use the witch or wizard to his advantage and then dispose of them. I think the exchanges between Dumbledore and Voldemort will actually define both roles, before Harry takes on Voldemort as his equal.

[DobbysSock]

Nothing against Michael Gambon but I think that Richard Harris made a better DD than he does. There was something about Harris that really brought DD to life..he added that 'mystery' that DD has in the books. Gambon isnt all bad though, it could have been worse....I'm not really liking the whole 'irish accent' he's got going on but the director said he liked it so what can you do!?

[PotionsPunk]

Nothing against Michael Gambon but I think that Richard Harris made a better DD than he does. There was something about Harris that really brought DD to life..he added that 'mystery' that DD has in the books. Gambon isnt all bad though, it could have been worse....I'm not really liking the whole 'irish accent' he's got going on but the director said he liked it so what can you do!?
I understand what you mean, Richard Harris WAS dumbledore. But I liked the way Gambon went on his own. He knew he couldn't do Richard, so he did his own thing, and the end result, I think, was very charming.

[magical violet]

I understand what you mean, Richard Harris WAS dumbledore. But I liked the way Gambon went on his own. He knew he couldn't do Richard, so he did his own thing, and the end result, I think, was very charming.

Hey, I like the way you put that, I agree with what you say.
My two cents... I loved Richard Harris he was totally charming and perfect as Dumbledore, but Gambon too brought his own unique touch and charm to the character. He was an excellent choice to replace Harris. I can't think of anyone else who could have done a better job.

[mareesa]

I just didn't like Michael Gambon's dirty fingernails and the Gandolf the Grey straw-like beard. (seems more like Aberforth) I imagine Dumbles is a clean man with silvery threads. Now as to his character, Gambon played it nicely. I was always afraid poor Richard Harris was going to fall over, bless him.

[Bunny]

I thought that Michael Gambon did well in PoA.
Taking over from Richard Harris was never going to be easy, but I think he did a very good job and the really tough bit is behind him now - he can build on his Dumbledore through the rest of the films.
Besides, actually I can see more of the book Dumbledore in Michael Gambon.

[Yankee Squib]

Okay I don't want to offend anyone but M.G. Needs to work on it alittle more! Richard Harris had the look and the voice. He seemed like a caring grandfather type. Michael Gambon did well, but he spoke to fast in parts and seemed distant to me anyway!

[lupislune]

I think that the portrayal of Dumbledore in POA by Gambon was too influenced by Curon. Don't get me wrong I would take Harris over Gambon any day, but I think Gambon did an ok job. I hope that the new director for GOF will mould DD more like Harris portrayed him, and definatly less "hippy".

[candygirl1616]

i miss the orig dumbledore :upset: i didnt like the dumbledore in the 3rd movie...he was too...i dont kno...i miss the orig one.....alot :upset:

[v@sh]

Richard Harris as DD :tu:
Michael Gambon as DD :td:

What Richard Harris portrayed as DD is very true to the books IMO. Whereas Gambon makes DD very OOC. From the books DD is described is as old and frail (he is ~150 years old, not 20), as wise as you can get, with a twinkle in his eyes behind those glasses of his, and yet he brings off power all at the same time, as well as a care for the students of the school. Something Harris portrayed extremely well, particularly the twinkle in the eyes. Also, the relationship between DD and Harry was shown as how I imagined it to be in PS/SS at the end, and likewise at the end of COS. We know in the books that the relationship is more than just headmaster/student yet in POA Gambon portrays it as that rather than the grandfather/mentor/student relationship.

I can't imagine Gambon in that OOTP ending nor GOF in the films. He hasn't shown any of the qualities of DD towards Harry IMO. While DD may be jovial and have jokes from time to time, he isn't hippy. Plus not to mention Gambon doesn't even look like DD with that change of beard.

For casting, Gambon would be one of the first people to go if I was to re-cast the actors. Hopefully he does a better job of portraying DD in GOF.

[gambonrules]

Although my name makes very clear what I think of the new Dumbledore I must agree on some parts of your post: in that they made a mistake in POA to never have DD actually interact with Harry personally. This indedd makes it seem that Harry is just one of the students and nothing more to DD. I certainly hope this'll get cleared op in GOF.

[chrisbll85]

I didn't like the new Dumbledore, he wasn't anything like the dumbledore in the book. But the other one that played him was excellent in every way:)

[MoodyHarry]

I loved the new Dumbledore - you cannot have a strong individual (such as Dumbledore) be too nice, especially at this stage of the events.

For a kids movie - Harris
For a more older movie - Gambon.

[Kevin]

For a kids movie - Harris
For a more older movie - Gambon.

You've hit the nail on the head. The Harry Potter films are going to evolve along the lines of the books. Meaning they will mature from the 11 year olds view of the world into the 17 year old Harry Potter view of the world. By that time the movies will be very dark. Richard Harris did have the air of Dumbledore about him. But Gambon has it too. Just in a different respect. The playful nature of Dumbledore is in Gambon's performance. But i thought he was very commanding when he talked about the Dementors and then the playful nature of Dumbledore came out. Dumbledore is only serious when he has to be. Too feel old is to forget how it is to be young. A sense of fun added with maturity is how i think of Dumbledore. Richard Harris was a very fine actor. Micheal Gambon is as well. It takes time to get into a role, as for the slight Irish accent, Gambon said that was his nod to Richard Harris, the director liked it, so it stayed in the film.
Dumbledore is slighty odd. I think Gambon captured that. Rowling has a lot of say on the films, i'm sure she had some say in who got cast as Dumbledore for the first 2 films and the third film. Harry Potter was Harris swansong, it's a shame he died. But that is a hard fact of life. People should not forget Richard Harris as Dumbledore. Keep your memorys of him alive in you and he will live on. But as i have learned from my experinces with people dying, then you do have to look forward, while keeping your memorys of the person who died alive in you (Rowling puts that better than i can). I think people should give Gambon the benefit of the doubt. I think people have judged him based only on one film. The time to make a judgement is after you've seen the goblet of fire. Which is what i'm doing. Though to be honest, it's not really upto the fans. At the end of the day if the producers are not happy or if Rowling is not happy. Then things will change as to who plays Dumbledore. The same can be said of the trio, but in a different way.

[Blue_Eyes]

I like Michael Gambon as Dumbledore. I can't think of anyone else to play Dumbledore except Sir Ian McKellan. I like how he made Dumbledore a little more Dumbledorish. I mean Harris was good as a frail kind father like figure but Dumbledore is not frail he is a very strong person who acts younger then his age. Also Harris had this frail weak voice which didn't fit Dumbledore's character at all.

[Goldberry]

For me, Richard Harris was Dumbledore, so for me it's a hard role to fill. Considering that, I think Michael Gambon did an excellent job. I still prefer Harris, and he'll always just totally be Dumbledore to me, but there's certainly nothing wrong with Gambon's portrayal.

[darklord_grindelwald]

In my opinion most of the fans don't like the MG-Dumbledore, because he doesn't look like how the book described the character. The RH-Dumbledore fit (or 'fitted'?) that description. Cuarón should have kept the "costumes" of RH. On the whole I prefer MG's portrayal.

I think if we mixed the looks of RH with the acting of MG, we would get the ideal Dumbledore.