SPOILERS - Did you like Lupin in POA?

[Ron_Rulz]

maybe its jst me, but i didnt think that David Thewlis was much like Lupin. In parts of the movie, especially the beginning i thought he was gonna b ok despite not looking much like i imagined Lupin to look like, but then Lupin started shouting at Harry. Isnt lupin supposed to be soft spoken? Did anyone else find this or was it jst me?

[Scoop33]

I thought he was a very good Lupin, but that is just me. Other people may think what you thought though.

[Haitani]

I wasn't sure at first.. but when I started seeing him in the actual film, I think he did a really good job. The majority of the time he is quite soft spoken, and the friendliness is quite clear. Look at the little "Hello" to Neville when he steps up for a turn.

But I guess this'll be something people will be divided upon.

[Sweetie]

He wasn't what I had expected, but I liked him a lot. He didn't quite fit the description I got from the books, but I don't see that as any reason not to like him. The music was a nice touch. He would have been a bit more attractive without the bad moustache, though ;)

[Rainbowfairy]

I thought he was great! I hope he agrees to take part in the future films!

[sobaka]

I thought he was great! I hope he agrees to take part in the future films!

couldn't have said it better myself! i cannot express enough how much i loved thewlis as lupin. i've been a thewlis fan for a while, though, so i might be kinda biased. :) i though he played the role wonderfully, it was everything i imagined lupin to be. (minus the mustache, but let's not get into that.)

[TheBloodyXXX]

I thought Thewlis did a great job.


He would have been a bit more attractive without the bad moustache, though


Did Lupin have a mustache in the books?

I don't remember.

[DarthSkywalker]

Did he look like him, no. But his acting was so good he makes you forget.

[Lanya Celebrian]

Great acting skills to David Thewlis! Two thumbs up ^_^!

[Deliah]

I think he was alright in the movie but not at all like I had imagined Lupin to be (and look).
I don't like guys with mustache but this doesn't really matter in this case ...

[NashiraErato]

I think David Thewlis did quite a good job of the part...He gave Lupin a real friendliness and warmth and I think the way he was always slightly stooping was great for the character too, it gave him that air of always being tired and ill. He doesn't look how I imagined Lupin, but the character was great.

[Credo Buffa]

I thought he was PERFECT! Totally spot-on, if not transcendent of my ideas that I had of him. It was the little things. . . the shy smile as he left the compartment on the train to speak to the driver, the little "helloo" to Neville as he walked to the front of the class, the way he walked across to the other side of the bridge when he spoke of Harry's mother (almost as though it were too hard to stand there right next to him). I've not been deterred by his appearance at all. People keep making a big deal about the mustache, but I think it adds something that helps to characterize him: it's kind of awkward-looking, but Lupin's kind of an awkward character. I think the whole thing made me feel even more sympathetic toward him. . . The last scene with him and Harry after he resigns made me just want to jump into the scene and give him a big hug (something about the big band music on the old phonograph added to all of this, but I can't quite put my finger on it just yet). The kindest person on the face of the Earth, real or fictional, having to suffer in the world and be shunned by most of humanity for something that's not his fault. Poor guy.

You mention, Ron Rulz, that you don't like how Lupin "shouts" at Harry. I actually thought that was great. I've always considered Lupin to be the first figure in the books who stands out as something of a father figure to Harry, and the whole scene with the Marauder's Map is a perfect example of that. He cares enough for Harry to want to protect him from getting in trouble with other teachers, but also is stern with him when he has done something wrong. It was a very parental gesture that I thought was completely appropriate for illustrating their relationship.

Of anything in this film that could have ruined it for me, a portrayal of Lupin (my favorite character) that I didn't agree with would have done it in one fell swoop. I'm ecstatic with how he turned out. David Thewlis is now one of my favorite people on the planet :-)

[Arthur Weasley]

I didn't like Lupin very much. From the chapter pictures in OotP, you got the impression that Lupin was younger and skinnier, with long blond hair. He was also very softspoken. I think the actor that played Lupin could've easily been substituted for Peter Pettigrew (although I did like Peter's character).

[Simbrie]

I love Thewlis as Lupin. Movie Lupin is exactly how I see Book Lupin as, softspoken and kindly, understanding, and fun once you know him. The swing music finished the latter for me.

As for image, no one can ever match up with my vision of Lupin, so I don't really care for that aspect. =D Yay for Thewlis!

[Optimus Prime]

Yeah, i thought that Thewlis was a great matchup with how I imagined him.

The character that surprised me in the movie was pettigrew. For some reason i imagined him differently than that.

[sports15]

at first i was kinda dissipointed with Lupin. i always thought of Lupin as a tall, skinny man that had longer hair with a slinder face. after i saw PoA twice, Therwalis has grown on me. i now think that he was a good choice.

[harripottrfreek]

He wasn't exactly what I had imagined, but he was still perfect. I think he did an amazing job bringing Lupin to life. I hope he comes back for the rest of the films. He did a wonderful job.

[pink delights]

I agree with everything Credo Buffa said. I have to say, that when I saw the first pictures I had my doubts.. but not anymore. David was AMAZING. Most people say that that's not how they pictured him, but it really fits the description in the books.. "looked quite young, thin and ill" Just how David looked.

And well, I'm not even gonna discuss the whole people that complain that David's not hot enough to play Lupin. :td: Never, in the books, does it says that Lupin's attractive, I think it's his personality what makes all of us love him. And I have to add, I think David Thewlis is really attractive (or hot, like most people would say) He was just perfect, I can't believe I doubted him.

[Frankie Inkblot]

Lupin was cast perfectly. David Thewlis has a Remus-like atmosphere to him.

It was Pettigrew who surprised me, as well. I definitely expected someone shorter and smaller, particularly around the waist. I didn't really like the way they gave him whiskers and those pointed ears. A bit over the top.

But, yeah, back to Lupin: I did expect him to be a little thinner, but his face and his eyes were exactly what I had been imagining in my head.

I wish the Canadian books came with chapter drawings...I'd love to see what the characters are supposed to look like from the author/publisher/illustrator's point of view.

[Katarzyna]

Oh yes! Thewlis did an excellent job portraying Lupin's personality. His looks don't exactly match what I had in mind, but they're not that far off, and imo, the personality was more important. I'm not crazy about the mustache; maybe Sirius will make him shave it off before letting Lupin enter #12 Grimmauld place.

I agree with everything in Credo Buffa's post, and would like to add that I thought he did an especially good job in the Shrieking Shack scene. Though I have issues with how quickly that scene went, I though Thewlis did an excellent job portraying a wide range of emotions in a very short period of time. I was a bit worried about whether they'd be able to pull off Lupin going from being a kindly professor to a cold-blooded revenge-killer, but Thewlis was fantastic.

[Snapes_lovr]

Thewlis is one of my favorite actors and to see him play one of my favorite characters was none the less electrifying. No, Lupin doesn't have that thin mustache in the book but perhaps Rowling left that out in the book and added it into the movie.

The way that Thewlis turned into a scrawny werewolf was great! I never imagined him as a great brooding werewolf. If that even makes any sense to anyone else.

[RubberSoul]

David Thewlis was definitely the right choice for Lupin out of everyone out there. Everyone else has already sung out his praises, and for the most part I agree with them. There's one thing though...his voice sounded too dominant. Lupin always strikes me as more soft-spoken.

the little "helloo" to Neville as he walked to the front of the class
Teehee, I loved that little bit. I think that's the thing that won me over to him.

[David C]

I thought he was very good!! but i thought he would be more soft sopken aswell

[Glustin]

I think that, if I hadnt read the books, i would not come to appreciate Lupin as much, if i had to base only on the movie. But i dont think this is due to Thelwis' performance or even the way the character was portrayed. I think the whole "rushy" feeling of the movie didnt let the viewer really come to appreciate the character as well as the book. I feel the same for Sirius.

But, that asides, I really liked him. I wish there had been a mention from any student that he "has been the best DADA teacher we ever had". That wouldve added a lot, to show how much the Gryffindors specially got to like Lupin.

[Vanilla Coke]

I was really happy with him as Lupin. He seemed to be very good for the part, though he was nothing like the Lupin I immagined, I was very impressed.

[David C]

same here i had a diffrent picture in mind

[Weatherby]

I don't think matching the descriptions on the pages makes for a good performance or not matching it being a horrid one.

Thewlis was the kind and caring but held back guy Lupin was in the books. He had the spirit down. I instantly trusted him.
So what if you imagined him blonde, pencil thin or whatever and he wasn't.
This is David Thewlis we're talking about. He's uncommonly talented.

The gestures, the facial tics and soft voice inflections that sometimes rose when he was emotional - genius.
He was just like a real person. Not a bit theatrical.

You would think he was best friends with Gary Oldman from the shrieking shack scene.
It was so heartfelt.

I looked at his expression not the cgi when he was transforming.

I was more than a little miffed by the complaints and naysaying made before the film was released.
I'm disapointed to hear them after the film. I can excuse not seeing the right movies and basing an opinion on a picture but to see the embodiment infront of your eyes and still nitpicking on hair colour is just unnecessary criticism.

[Aprilsbunch]

I had a very different picture of him in my head but once I got over that in the movie I loved him. He played the part great. He brought one of my favorite characers to life.

[gryff1nd0r_22]

I too very much liked David Thewlis as Lupin. I have always had a bit of trouble coming up with a visual image of Lupin whilst reading the books (no idea why!) but even so when I saw pics Thewlis still didn't seem to look like the character and having never seen any of his previous work I was very curious...

However, I definitely agree with the majority of people here - I think that Thewlis was a wonderful Lupin and now whenever I read the books this is the Lupin I see. He came across as caring, compassionate and ultimately a very likeable guy which is how I have always got the impression JK was trying to portray him, so much so that his appearance became irrelevant. Ultimately Lupin is a down-trodden good guy as a result of other peoples prejudices towards something he has no control over. I think that Thewlis portrayed this effectively without being clumsy or overstated.

the whole scene with the Marauder's Map is a perfect example of that. He cares enough for Harry to want to protect him from getting in trouble with other teachers, but also is stern with him when he has done something wrong. It was a very parental gesture that I thought was completely appropriate for illustrating their relationship.

I agress very much with this - I think this particular scene was done brilliantly - it came across perfectly that Harrry had enough respect for lupin to take him perfectly seriously yet still like him, rather than resent him for being stern.

anyway - with the risk of warbling on and sounding daft (I'm not so good with words!) I'll leave it at that!! Big thumbs up from me!!!

[soccergoddess24]

he was ok,i think they could have casted him and sirius better, because SIRIUS is supposed to be good looking, and was it just me, or did it look like lupin had a bit of a belly? :-/, maybe i imagined it lol...i thought he'd be quiter, cause he seemed a little too outgoing for lupin, and i don't remember EVER reading in the books that he ever shouted...i just didn't get a GREAT vibe from david thewlis or gary oldman, i mean i GUESS they COULD grow on me (hopefully because they are both 2 of my fave characters!!) but the first and second time i saw it, eh, it was an OK vibe i guess...im not saying they're TERRIBLE actors bc they're DEFINITELY not, but i just dont think they suited the part as well as some other people...(*i think johnny depp should have played sirius and ewan mgreggor should have played lupin, i think they BOTH could have pulled it off quite nicely!)

[theotherlisa]

Although Thewlis didn't fit in with my personal physical representation of Lupin, I think he did a wonderful job. He made me like Lupin's character more than I had in the past.

[RubberSoul]

he was ok,i think they could have casted him and sirius better, because SIRIUS is supposed to be good looking,
Who's to say Gary Oldman isn't good looking? I think he's...really quite lovely, hehe.

(*i think johnny depp should have played sirius and ewan mgreggor should have played lupin, i think they BOTH could have pulled it off quite nicely!)
Didn't Ewan McGregor say at one point that he would never read Harry Potter to his kids? Or was that Jude Law? Anyway, if it was Johnny Depp and Ewan McGregor doing those roles, the movie would just seem too Hollywood-ized, because they have such a huge fanbase in America.

[Morgause]

I thought he was amazing!

His physical appearrance isn't described in detail in the books, so of course he won't look like most of us imagined, but I thought he portrayed the character really well!

I think that the fact that the biggest complaint any of us have is his moustache is a pretty good compliment! ;)

[Severely Snapped]

Well. Hmm. I'd never seen Thewlis in anything before, but it was obvious from his first scene that the man's a very good actor. And I liked his Lupin. His interpretation of the character was a bit more cynical, more world-weary and less sad, than mine, but it was still a viable characterization. Overall I thought he was very good.

(And OT, Oldman was great. I don't even like Sirius, and I STILL thought Oldman was great. I don't get why so many Black fans hate him?? Oh, well.)

[Lupin_Lady]

My Lupin obbsession had quadrupled- plus some- since I saw POA! I LOVE THEWLIS *fa-girl scream* I had almost forgotten the impact Lupin had on me the 1st time I read POA-- but seeing him on sreen rememinded me. And it always will.
Thewlis- I love you for bringing my Lupin to life sooo well! :drool:

[Hogwarts Lake]

He didn't look like Lupin but nevertheless he was great as him!
But I didn't like him shouting either but, I don't think that's his fault maybe the director or the script wanted him to shout?

Oh yes! Thewlis did an excellent job portraying Lupin's personality. His looks don't exactly match what I had in mind, but they're not that far off, and imo, the personality was more important. I'm not crazy about the mustache; maybe Sirius will make him shave it off before letting Lupin enter #12 Grimmauld place.

:rotfl: lol I'd like that and I agree although he did not look like the Lupin I had imagined he was perfect!


I wasn't sure at first.. but when I started seeing him in the actual film, I think he did a really good job. The majority of the time he is quite soft spoken, and the friendliness is quite clear. Look at the little "Hello" to Neville when he steps up for a turn.
I loved that little hello, when he plays music in class, etc. I liked all the time he was with Harry - it really showed he cared, I also liked when he was talking about Lily and James and the SS scene (after how much they cut) was only good because of the actors :tu:

[Katie_Bell]

He was just as I imagined he would be, if not better. I thought Lupin was awsome in the movie and his true characteristics showed through.

[Neptune]

I thought Thewlis did terrific. I was very happy with his performance. He brought Lupin to life for me! I never really had doubts about Thewlis pulling off Lupin, even though I had never seen Thewlis in any other movie. I trusted him and trusted the people who do the hiring for these movies. They have yet to let me down!

Thewlis's look along with his acting pretty much matched my mental picture of book Lupin. I am very very happy!! Plus I just have to say; the little "Helloo." to Neville in class was SO cute and very much Lupin, and I also loved that he played music during class. It seamed a very Lupin thing to do, for the students to relax and let lose.

Thank you Mr. Thewlis :tu:

[SilverStar]

He did it very well. He did the emotional scenes in addition to the scene where he scolds Harry (which was in the book) very well.

[Silkeng]

I think the actor did a great job in both the happy carefree part of Lupin's character and the seriousness that lays underneath. Although in my head Lupin was much younger looking, but that is always a struggle since he had to be the same age as Sirius and Severus. I was impressed by all that he did and have no complaints.

[Voxx]

He was a great actor but... the mustash ..lets say it wasn't expected

[ninakix]

Who's to say Gary Oldman isn't good looking? I think he's...really quite lovely, hehe.


Didn't Ewan McGregor say at one point that he would never read Harry Potter to his kids? Or was that Jude Law? Anyway, if it was Johnny Depp and Ewan McGregor doing those roles, the movie would just seem too Hollywood-ized, because they have such a huge fanbase in America.

haha. Johnny Depp would have been an AWESOME Sirius. But that's just because I'm in love with Johnny Depp. hahaha. Unfortunately, he's not english.

I liked Thewlis. I think Lupin was a mythical character to me, like all the Maruaders were, that there was no way that any actor could have reached my expectations. Thewlis did well, but I just didn't like that mustache.
Infact, that mustache bothered me alot-alot. Anyone else agree?

[Hogwarts Lake]

Ewan McGregor said he read some other books (forgot which) to his kids but that did not mean he didn't like HP it was just that those books were shorter hence good for quick reading

I did not like the moustache either but his acting abilities more than made up for it! :)

[Juni Wolfspirit]

i think johnny depp should have played sirius and ewan mgreggor should have played lupin, i think they BOTH could have pulled it off quite nicely!)

That is a horrible idea.

[Yugi]

I thought it was really funny when he put on the music.

[Pumpkin Juice]

Wow, I wouldn't call the lecture he gave Harry "yelling." Actually, I loved that moment when he took the map and lectured Harry because he came across as a real father in that moment. It was a very nice touch to the film.

[Tim the Wiz]

When I first saw the trailer and saw Lupin, I grumbled with the worst of them but I think his acting ability overrode the look.

As already said he didn't look like what I thought Lupin would.

And of course I didn't like the moustache.

[rotsiepots]

Aaah, I'm glad some of you are eating humble pie after seeing the film. As someone who always had a degree of confidence in Thewlis's abilities as Lupin, I'm pleased to say he exceeded my expectations. I honestly thought he was brilliant.

As Weatherby said, it was his expression during his transformation that was more compelling than any actual physical changes, for me at least. He translated the pain and fear so well, which contrasted well with his reserved disposition for the rest of it.

I also don't think he really "yelled" at Harry. He was delivering some good common sense in a rather aggravated tone, but it wasn't exactly "yelling".

Anyway, he was excellent.

[loony4moony]

Hear, hear! :D

This is coming from an absolute Lupin obsessive- I loved Thewlis's Lupin. People are saying that he didn't look like they imagined, and while this is true for me too, none of the characters look like I imagine them to onscreen and I don't find it bothers me in the slightest. It's unreasonable to expect them to look like my own personal mental images. Thewlis captured the essence of Lupin, and he did that perfectly.

Though he was brilliant all the way through, the two moments that, for me, captured the character the most were:
-That priceless little 'hello!'
- The morning after his transformation, when Harry comes into his office to see him looking all pale and scratched, and he does this sort of lovely half-smile and says 'I've looked worse'. I completely agree with what somebody said earlier about wanting to jump into the scene and hug him!

Hey, anyone remember the Big Squishy Group Hugs for Lupin society? How about a big squishy group hug for David Thewlis? :D

*frantic running foosteps as David Thewlis runs away- far, far away...*

[Scabbers]

I haven't watch it yet (it came out today in Oz) but from the pictures i am a little disapointed. He is nothing like what i imagined him to be, to me from pics/media/articles Thewlis looks like a middle class working man from the 80's who goes to the pub every friday to have a few beers with his mates. That or a drunk bum in the streets...he also had a pot belly!!!

[likeicare]

i can't deny that i was quite disappointed too when i learned who they picked to play Lupin...

BUT that was BEFORE I saw the movie. I completely ate back my first impression. Thewlis was just...brilliant (gee, how eloquent, but really, there's no other word)! He was able to give us the shabby-looking, mysterious professor who had a witty humor, a fatherly firmness and an endearing kindness. He delivered a praise-worthy performance, i'm extremely happy now about who they picked...

[hey_itz_me]

i think he was excellent. i didnt imagine him like that in the books, but i liked him. 2 things i would've changed, though. (in human form. the werewolf is a totally different story.) 1. lose the stupid cane!!!!!! 2. lose that totally idoitic record!

[Hermyownniny]

Thewlis wasn't what i had in my mind for what Lupin would look and act like, but i agree with most here that his acting abilities proved himself to us. Although it was different to the book, i thoroughly enjoyed his portrayal. And i agree with the moustache...what's with that?!?!

[Auror Williamson]

I thought Thewlis did a brilliant job with Lupin! He perfected the whole "I'm a werewolf in disguise, so I'm ill" part of it and also the caring, yet effective DADA teacher. I'm glad he's our Lupin!

My only complaint (a very small one) is his hairdo and moustache. I think it would have made the movie better if he had had longer hair and no moustache. Just my two cents.

[gottaloveLupin]

I haven't seen the movie yet.
but from what you say, David Thewlis is excellent.
He doesn’t look the way that I pictured Lupin either, but I don’t think this is so important.
What matters is the feeling he transmits to the audience, the way he captures Lupin’s complex character, Lupin’s spirit .
And its seems that David has done this brilliantly.
Now, the moustache is not that important.
Neither his age.
You complain of Gary’s age and of David’s age, but what about Alan Rickman’s than?
Snape is supposed to be 33 in POA and Alan is 60 or something, whereas David is only 40.
Anyway, I’ve always pictured Snape and Lupin and Sirius older than 33. It would have been really odd and confusing to see some 30 something years- old guys playing the characters in the movie.

And about shouting at Harry in the map scene, I don’t think that it contradicts the book Lupin.In the book, too, Lupin was very angry with Harry in the map scene.
And just because Lupin is kind and sweet doesn’t mean that he isn’t capable of getting angry and of showing his anger.
Actually I think that I will enjoy seeing Lupin shouting at Harry, because this will only show his great affection towards Harry. It’s a fatherly attitude.
I can’t wait to see Thewlis as Lupin!

[Nymph]

maybe its jst me, but i didnt think that David Thewlis was much like Lupin. In parts of the movie, especially the beginning i thought he was gonna b ok despite not looking much like i imagined Lupin to look like, but then Lupin started shouting at Harry. Isnt lupin supposed to be soft spoken? Did anyone else find this or was it jst me?

totaly agree with U for the whole thg.

Just one thing though... the eye, Lupin's eye definitly. But I would have prefer him pale and with shadows and all but with a rather strog built body. No mustache, no stick... Lupin does not have this kind of old-baby face for me, HE IS A MAN, com'on!

But he is a good actor though, it's just that he is not Lupin like Ron is Ron or Snape IS snape or for the Tolkien's fan Gandalf is Gandalf...see.... just like Sirius is not Sirius.
I think Cuaron likes to make people shout. :huh:

[Nymph]

And about shouting at Harry in the map scene, I don’t think that it contradicts the book Lupin.In the book, too, Lupin was very angry with Harry in the map scene.
And just because Lupin is kind and sweet doesn’t mean that he isn’t capable of getting angry and of showing his anger.
Actually I think that I will enjoy seeing Lupin shouting at Harry, because this will only show his great affection towards Harry. It’s a fatherly attitude.
I can’t wait to see Thewlis as Lupin!

I think Lupin was despointed, not angry. This is the whole difference. It is much more horrible to have someone despointed in you than angry with U. Lupin is more subtle than that, and because he loves harry like a father he wouldn't have shout.

[gottaloveLupin]

Yes, more dissapointed than angry, you are right.
I reserve judgement for when I see the movie.
but I don't think that it's so important the way he looks.
And from the comments I got the impression that he acts like a man, that he is a MAN, even if he doesn't have a Brad Pitt body.

[sobaka]

at first i was kinda dissipointed with Lupin. i always thought of Lupin as a tall, skinny man that had longer hair with a slinder face. after i saw PoA twice, Therwalis has grown on me. i now think that he was a good choice.

you know, that was the only thing that bugged me. i thought he'd be skinnier. david thewlis used to be very thin (watch The Island of Dr. Moreau, or Seven Years in Tibet). but like you said, he grew on me, and i couldn't imagine anyone else. :) it's all about the acting, really. and thewlis certainly does that well.

[Sylestian]

I thought he was brilliant!! He acted so much like a mentor but didn't stand out to be noticed too much and not melting away into nothing. His look fit perfectly. Love ya man!!!

[Picko]

I didn't mind David Thewlis' performance, however he was often dealing with appalling dialogue which didn't make his important role any easier.

[tonks181]

yeah, thewlis definitely has won a lot a hearts with his sensitive portrayal as lupin. admit he didn't exactly fit in with the image of lupin that i'd conjured , but thewlis was so compelling as lupin that my first impressions vanished ina puff(and that's saying something since some people call me very stubborn:))
as for the 'yelling' scene, why i never even thought thewlis' lupin did anything different from the lupin in the books. that he yelled never crossed my mind.
and kudos to thewlis again for the transformation scene. the pain that he managed to convey struck me as being very real and that's what rendered that scene so touching.
the calm demeanour, that was there, yes and also the wistfulness that we readily associate with lupin. well, one look at thhewlis and you'd say ' here's a man who knows pain from up close'.great job
the moustache?my lupin didn't have a moustache, but what the heck? moustache or no, it wouldn't have madea difference to the brilliant actor that thewlis is.
anticipating his return in Ootp .

oh and i didn't know rickman was almost 60! now that's one helluva brilliant actor, if there ever was one

[Jael]

Oh, I did like Thewlis in the movie. He came across as kind and fatherly. I liked the scene where he scolded Harry. It didn't come across as "yelling" to me. He did seem angry, but in a caring way. As in, "I can't believe you would put yourself in danger like that." It was anger born of love. It is a contrast to Sirius in Book 6 where he encourages Harry to take a dangerous risk. I know that was out of love, too, but more of a selfish love at that point I think.

Jael

[Catherina16]

At first i thought he was ok but then has the movie went on I thought he was wonderful. It was just how i would think he would be

[ravenrose]

David Thewlis was perfect as Lupin. He was the best part of the film - it totally belonged to him. A slightly lesser actor would have overshadowed the rest of the characters (including Gary Oldman as Sirius, who is one of my favorite actors). But because he is BRILLIANT, Thewlis managed to keep that from happening, too, and let the other characters shine (it's like when you're dancing, a good lead will always dance so as to make his follow look the best possible, even if it means dancing below his ability).

I was not a huge fan of Lupin's character in the books. I liked him - he was kind, steady, intelligent - but lacked the depth of some of the other characters. Thewlis' portrayal in the film sucked me in not only to his character, but to the story, to Hogwarts, and the Harry Potter world.

Regarding the scene with the marauder's map, I think they played it the way they did in order to portray the emotional essence of the scene. In books you can be a lot more subtle, because you can spend a few pages describing the emotional reponses of the characters. Lupin's demeanor was just what was needed to convey the tension in that scene in the few seconds he had available.

Now I wish there was more of Lupin in the other books. Perhaps he'll be more involved in books 6 and 7.

[Hufflepuffy]

I did like Lupin in the movie, and he's one of my favorite charcters, so I thought I'd be quite critical. He was as kind as I pictured him in the book. I always thought Lupin was sort of quiet and gentle, but a force at the same time, and I think David Thewlis portrayed this perfectly. He looked a little differently than I imagined him. I always had this picture in my head of a young looking guy, but with greying hair (and no moustache). Still brilliant, though. :)

[dafyd]

I thought Thewlis as Lupin worked very well - I honestly didn't know how to picture Lupin.

It looks as if American readers have an advantage / disadvantage (depending on how you look at it) over British readers, 'cos the only pictures we get are on the front cover of the book, and they're always Harry!

[Gina]

i lupin was great :tu: strangly attractive too!! have always thought his character was in the books :huh: i agree the facial hair isnt right. but Thewlis is almost as i imagined him, and he plays him so well!

[Frankie Inkblot]

Thewlis gave me a bit of a shiver at the very first scene he was introduced...when he opens his eyes on the train.

I actually found him a bit attractive. A nice surprise - since I think he's wonderful in the books.

[jenni_syco]

Not sure about Lupin yet... in the process of reading the 3rd book again so will decide after iv finished it lol

[FreyaCrescent]

I absolutely loved David Thewlis as Lupin. I thought he was perfect for the role, and his performance was spot on. I thought he was one of the most natural actors in the whole movie, I was looking forward to his performance before I saw PoA, but wow.. I was blown away. I even didn't mind the facial hair, I thought it made him look rather cute. He was very much the sweet, kind Lupin that HP fans have come to expect. 10/10 for Mr. Thewlis! Definitely one of the highlights of the movie! (And that is saying something)

[Katarzyna]

Thewlis gave me a bit of a shiver at the very first scene he was introduced...when he opens his eyes on the train.
Oh yeah, that was a great scene. His eyes were incredible!

[Poeman]

the man had one of the best performances, why are you all tight about a mustache

[Shadow_Princess]

the man had one of the best performances, why are you all tight about a mustache
yeah, why, It makes him seem more, i dunno the word, sophisticated i spose.!

He was, as ron would say "Bl00dy Brilliant"!
I have seen some interviews now and David seems a very funny bloke!

[Hudson]

I think he was pretty good. I thought almost all of the acting save for Ron was fairly average.

[Allan2]

i think onscreen thewlis fell into the role of lupin quite well
to be honest, he didnt exactly look like the lupin i imagined, but then again neither did dan radcliffe when i first saw sorcstone
i enjoyed the bridge scene, and i think he captured the mentor figure that harry came to know in the series
i hope he returns in orderothephoenix

[PiCkLeS4WeAsLeY]

David Thewlis did a great job as Lupin, I think. I didn't really like the transformation into the werewolf, just b/c it didn't look like an actual werewolf to me. But I loved Lupin's touching moment's w/Harry- like on the bridge. That was a great scene.

[Bouncing_Ferret]

I loved Thewlis, he was a perfect Lupin. I liked the moustache, too! :D He was so wonderfully shabby - where on earth did he get that cardie?!

I really enjoyed the Maurauder's Map scene when he got cross with Harry - it was surprising, but very realistic at the same time. Showed he really cared for Harry. I also liked his re-uniting with Sirius scene, that was lovely. I wasn't that into his whole speech about Lily, I really don't think that his relationship with Lily was half as important to talk about than his friendship with James, but that's just the dialogue's fault, Thewlis still did brilliantly. And when he started his wolfish transformation, the whole thingo with Sirius speaking to him about his heart and all that, that very nearly made me burst into tears. Which would have been a bit embarrassing in a cinema full of eight year olds... :blush:

All in all, final verdict, et la.... Absolutely bloody super! :D

[PiCkLeS4WeAsLeY]

Yeah, I loved that moment w/Snape & the Maurauder's Map, that was classicly brilliant!

[StephyD]

He was awesome. I think he kinda looked like Hitler with the facial hair. The casting for POA was wonderful. I hope dave makes another appearance.

[herbertsandbach]

Lupin is a hard character to portray on film as he is a softer,quieter more subtle character than a lot of others in HP. It would be easy for him to come across as bland or be overpowered by the Snapes,Lockhart or Trelawney. The U.K books don't have illustrations inside so U.K readers have to focus on the text and Lupins physical apperance is left open to interpretation. I think U.S readers have illustrations so when reading relate the artists view of the character which is understandable. Lupin does fit my idea of the guy in the book. Thewlis does everything required in the film and more it would be so easy to have got this casting horribly,horribly wrong but yet again the casting people have got it right !!!. The whole moustache thing is so funny.....it fits with the whole 1930's thing they've added to his character the spats shoes,the Jazz music etc it all goes together....

[luna_potter]

i don't know... i don't see the movie yet... in isral the movie publishs just yesterday so i go to the movie today...

[RemusLupinFan]

I totally loved David Thewlis' performance as Lupin. As someone said above, he captured Lupin's essence, and that's the thing that's most important. I loved Thewlis' whole demeanor- the slight stoop, the tired, kindly look. The boggart scene really introduced us to Lupin because we get to see his great teaching abilities as well as his mischeivous side. I think Thewlis played this very well. And as others have mentioned, I don't think the Marauder's Map scene would have worked if Lupin hadn't raised his voice- he was firm, but I don't think he really shouted. It was essential to get across the point that Lupin was disappointed at Harry for not thinking of the possible consequences of his actions.

I was also incredibly impressed with the transformation scene, it was just heart-wrenching. Thewlis' expressions were supurb, and I loved when Sirius was trying to get him to remember who he was. And I'm going to have to agree with posters who mentioned it that I wanted to give Lupin a big hug the morning after his transformation.

Overall, I give David's portrayal of Lupin two thumbs up! :tu: :tu:

[Drusilla]

I have to agree with you on that one.I was a little doubtful about what kind of Lupin David Thewlis would make because he didn't really look like the picture I had of him in my head,but now...I have to hand it to the casting directors-they somehow get it right every time.
Lupin was amazing.I think David Thewlis got his innate goodness,his decency and compassion,even the streak of mischief that made him Moony of Moony,Wormtail,Padfoot and Prongs-in fact,everything that makes book-Remus someone we love,down perfect.
I suppose when it comes to Remus Lupin the old saying does hold true: "Still waters run deep."

[MadMuggle]

I really liked thewlis as Lupin. He's basically how I imagined Lupin when I read the books, but I imagined him with a narrower face. If that's all I can fault then that's pretty good!

[Blossom]

I deffinatly didn't imagine him like that, both character and looks (my lupin kind of looks like a cross between ewan mcgregor and philip scofield of all people LOL), but i thought he did a really great job. it's always nice to see characters from other points of view.

[Puckle]

the acting was magnificent but the only thing that "got me " was he looked like hitler
lol sorry no insult intended just stating a fact

[Pumpkin Juice]

I thought Thewlis did okay in the role even though he wasn't what I had pictured for the character. I never imagined Lupin with a moustache or scars on his face. I also imagined him a bit thinner because of his weakened condition - as on the train Ron had mentioned that Lupin looked like he should eat something which gave me the impression he was painfully thin to the point of looking starved. Thewlis isn't overweight, however, he's not painfully thin either and doesn't look starved. I also pictured Lupin with streaks of gray in his hair, one of the descriptions the book gives about him - though he looked young, he was turning prematurely gray. Thewlis as Lupin didn't have the gray in his hair.

Now Thewlis did great with his voice, making Lupin sound tired and weak. Walking with a cane was an interesting twist - though I hadn't imagined that in the book, it worked well for the character on screen. He also did well in coming across like a father to Harry - as I mentioned earlier, especially in that scene where he lectured Harry about the map - he sounded extremely like Harry's father in that scene and I really liked that.

So really, the only thing I didn't like about Lupin was he wasn't what I had pictured in my mind as what Lupin looked like given the physical description of him in the book. I imagined him looking much thinner and weaker. However, that really is a moot point because the most important thing about Lupin is his personality. That's what makes so many people love him from the books is his personality - how gentle he is, how kind he is to Harry especially. And in the film, Thewlis portrayed Lupin's personality beautifully. Lupin came across as both gentle and kind, clearly looking out for Harry's best interest and having a fondness for him as he is the son of James and Lily.

I wonder if there is an actor out there who would have looked more the part to me as well as been able to pull off the personality and character of Lupin in true faith to him in the books. Thewlis did okay, I'm pretty much split about him in the role - he pulled off the most important part of the character - his personality, however, he doesn't look the part to me. I neither love nor hate him in the role. I would say I like him in the role - that's pretty close to the middle yet supports his role in the film. :)

[Snuffles_Lupin]

When I first found out that David Thewlis would be playing Lupin, I didn't give it much thought. My favorite character had always been Sirius. That was until I saw the movie. Thewlis made me fall in love with Lupin. I just reread book three and now all I can picture is Thewlis as Lupin and it fits perfectly. The voice, the hair, eyes all of it. Loved it.

[nikib76]

I loved Lupin in POA and I thought he was brilliant kind caring a bit naughty and very good looking (He needs to have a shave though) He was how i pictured him tired shabby but I wasn't expecting the scars on his face. I would marry him tomorrow if I could!!!!

[R_P_S]

I didn't imaggine him to be like that.

[sfaist]

I liked Lupin in PoA. The only thing I didn't like was him "losing his cool" so to speak in the Shrieking Shack scene. I always envisioned him calm cool and collected throughout everything.

[R_P_S]

I never imagined him with a moustachw, I also thought he would be younger although I still enjoyed the movie to the extent I have been watching the trailer over and over again, I will do so untill the DVD is out

[FizzingWhizbee]

Not really. I imagine Lupin to be softspoken and gentle, and in the movie he seemed harsh. But he wasn't awful.

[R_P_S]

Not really. I imagine Lupin to be softspoken and gentle, and in the movie he seemed harsh. But he wasn't awful.I thought that too, but I loved the ware-wolve, we didn't see much of Snape though.

[Pumpkin Juice]

Not really. I imagine Lupin to be softspoken and gentle, and in the movie he seemed harsh. But he wasn't awful.
I honestly don't get how you guys think he was harsh. I thought he was extremely soft spoken and gentle. There's that one moment he lectures Harry, but as I've talked about, it was brilliant. :)

[hermeeownninny]

I didn't like Lupin in PoA. I too envisioned Lupin as mild-mannered and soft-spoken. The scene where Lupin takes the map and is yelling at Harry was totally wrong. It's quiet disappointment, the knowledge that you have severely disappointed someone you respect, that's so much worse than someone yelling at you. Thewlis's Lupin lacked the sensitivity that makes Lupin so likable. The absence of robes didn't make Lupin even look like he should- he looked like someone's dweeby Uncle Bob. The perfect Lupin, in my opinion, would have been Ewan MacGregor. (Watch Star Wars Episode II- if that's not Lupin, no one is!)

[Zaella]

I don't know how to explain it but I think that having someone like Ewan McGregor play Lupin would have overpowering or fit in with ensemble cast. I thought Thewlis was perfect, he especially conveyed the emotions of the character well. :tu:

[AurorSlayer]

Thewlis was perfect. Too bad choppy editing ruined his scenes with Harry. Most of Lupin's appearances had very little segue leading into each scene. One moment Harry would be with Ron and Hermione. Then, BAM! Harry was with Lupin. The only reason why I was able to follow along with the story was because I read the book. Thewlis/Lupin deserved much better.

[NerfHerder]

I unfortunately agree, Slayer.

Although I hope that Lupin's part will be boosted (depending on the director) in the 5th movie. Call it wishful thinking, but I'm hoping that Lupin's role increases in the books, and should therefore increase by leaps and bounds in the movies.

[muggledeedee]

I thought Thewlis did a great job. Just because Lupin was soft spoken deosn't mean he never spoke sternly or that he wasn't outgoing. He always seemed to know the right thing to say and when to say it. From the book he was always confident and self-assured when speaking to others, particularly when he was talking to Snape, and Thewlis portrayed this very well. Kind and gentle with firmness underneath that doesn't always show itself, but as in the scene with him yelling at Harry, I think it was just the right touch the scene needed to show the audience (particularly for those who haven't (gasp) read the book) how much he cares for Harry and that he was worried about him.

[Quite Sirius]

I thought he was fabulous! I wouldn't change a hair - not even on that much-maligned moustache.

I remember someone (was it here?) mention how he was portrayed as a sort of World War II veteran, and that really struck me. Because he is a sort of veteran of the first war against Voldemort, isn't he? That's why the big band music and the dress and the disposition strike me as so distinctly and perfectly Lupin, even though it hadn't been specified in the books.

And I didn't consider him to be overly sharp in the movie at all. He does lecture Harry in the book. And that's why it's so important - because Lupin genuinely cares very deeply for Harry's safety. And in turn, because Harry respects Lupin so much, a reproach coming from him means so much more to him than any coming from Snape. I thought this was captured so well in that scene in the movie.

[Athea moontree]

David thewlis was amazing as lupin.... He's characterization of lupin is spot on..omg! the voice !!
BUT I REALLY REALLY did not like the way lupin's warewolf form was portrayed in the movie...THe computer generated 'THING' looked nothing like a warewolf... wat were they thinking???

[HpFreak726]

i thought he was really good. i hope he's in the fifth 1 2

[you know who!]

he wasnt how i expected him to act or look - how he shouted at harry about the marauders map and when neville started to describe what clothes his grandmother wears and he cut him off and said "we dont have to hear" i think that was kindof snapeish

[RadicaL]

I liked Lupin. The little things he did really held true to his character in the book. The mustache didn't bother me at all, I think it enhanced the character. What i didn't like was the person who played Sirius. He just seemed to be to old and ugly to fit the part. Sirius is supposed to be handsome and when you're handsome you're young. The Sirius in the movie just looked like a really old man, not really what i had pictured the Sirius to be. He wasn't even scary and his acting was mediocre.

[GryffindorSeeker]

I like him, but he is nothing like how I thought he would be, but I still liked him. He didn't look like my imagining of him, but oh well, that's just they way it has to be.

[Cindy]

I didn't really like his image of Lupin, I imagined Lupin as more fatherly-looking, and no offence meant, but Lupin's make up in this movie made him look a bit like some paedophile. :p But David Thewlis did a great job in potraying the character of Lupin. I'm not so sure of Gary Oldman as Sirius though, I expected someone who is better-looking to play him. But that's another story. ;)

[Potter13]

He kind of looked like how I pictured him. I was really pleased with who they picked for the part. The only thing that I did not like was the werewolf. It is not exactly how I had pictured it. Other than that, I liked the character. :p

[ndn189]

i pictured lupin to be better looking..but still shabby..and slim..and no mustache..but looking at the part of sirius..i think johnny depp should have played sirius! becuase he has what it takes to act crazy..[[pirates of the caribbean,blow,sleepy hollow...etc.]]...the way sirius walked..it was just like how jack sparrow walked..i dunno..thats just what i think..i know this is a lupin forum..buttttt..

[Dagmar]

... and no offence meant, but Lupin's make up in this movie made him look a bit like some paedophile. :p But David Thewlis did a great job in potraying the character of Lupin.
I love David Thewlis, I think he is very underated as an actor.
I'm glad you saw the makeup/pedophile thing too. It was creeping me out and I couldn't put my finger on it.(okay bad choice of words
:sad: ).
I didn't like the way the werewolf looked either, the CGI could have been better.

[Lady deMimsy]

Well, I thought Thewlis did an excellent job with a really thankless script and choppy editing, but the movie totally gutted a lot of the things that make this character who he is -- the dry wit, the compassion, the whole MWPP backstory. We only get a brief glimpse of him in the classroom and an even briefer one of him helping Harry with the Patronus (not enough for us to see how emotionally difficult the lessons are, both for him and for Harry). And what was up with him getting all misty-eyed over Lily rather than James?

And the special effects for the werewolf transformation were just wrong. Werewolves in JKR's world are supposed to look like wolves, not bald ape-man thingies.

[esmerelda]

For me, the actor looked and sounded wrong (like many people have said, a bit too harsh and loud vocally, and not as run-down as I think he looks), but at the same time I thought the actor did a great job. It's hard to explain, but I think he acted Lupin perfectly, but was visually and vocally not a perfect match for how I see Lupin. I also thought the werewolf was appalling - shouldn't a werewolf actually be a bit hairy and wolf-like?!

I would have loved Ewan McGregor as Lupin, and Johnny Depp as Sirius, but I daresay they would have cost an awful lot of money!

[Airine]

the shy smile as he left the compartment on the train to speak to the driver, the little "helloo" to Neville as he walked to the front of the class, the way he walked across to the other side of the bridge when he spoke of Harry's mother (almost as though it were too hard to stand there right next to him).

<SNIP>

The last scene with him and Harry after he resigns made me just want to jump into the scene and give him a big hug

<SNIP>

I've always considered Lupin to be the first figure in the books who stands out as something of a father figure to Harry, and the whole scene with the Marauder's Map is a perfect example of that. He cares enough for Harry to want to protect him from getting in trouble with other teachers, but also is stern with him when he has done something wrong. It was a very parental gesture that I thought was completely appropriate for illustrating their relationship.

<SNIP>

I'm ecstatic with how he turned out.

<SNIP>


I totally agree! ! !

I wasn't up to the moon for Lupin the first 2 times I read the book, then I started loving him and getting a bit obsessed, and Thewlis did just a masterpiece! Have you guys noticed the way he walks (which - on a side note - was very Chaplin-ish and I adored it!) and the way he moves, kind of scared of his own shadow, while when he's teaching he's so ... powerful! ! !
I thought he was perfect in every way... when I started getting obsessed with him I loved the fact that Lupin was the symbol of the special teacher everybody meets once in a lifetime (or wishes to meet), the one you'll never forget (for me it was my spanish teacher :D) , and I was pleased to see that Thewlis did a bloody brilliant job with it.

[tristessa]

david thewlis did absolutely great as lupin

i just loved the little hello to neville
the music

the only bad thing about his character was the werewolf
but that's not his fault

[Artanis]

I have been a Lupin fan since I read the books and when I first saw a picture of David Thewlis as Lupin, my initial response was something along the lines of a skeptical "Hmmmmm..."

I have since changed my tune. I've PoA twice now (and I am *so* going back again) and my response after the first viewing was... :tu: & :clap: I just love him to bits. He is everything I wanted him to be, face fuzz notwithstanding. ;)

Airine and Credo Buffa...you guys have said it all. From the way he moved and the way he spoke and the way he looked...dang it, he is Lupin. The way he so obviously cares about Harry and the other students in his class, the way he encourages Neville with that little "hello", the way he puts on jazz music to diffuse the tension in DADA class... He nailed it in every way. Gah! Cannot. Rave. ENOUGH!!! All in all, I am seriously looking forward to seeing him again in OotP.

:D

~Artanis

[herbertsandbach]

I hope Lupin returns for a bigger part in books 6 and 7 he's by far the best DADA teacher and most likeable adult in the book series. I've got to admit I've never really warmed to Sirius I don't know why but he leaves me cold. In the film and the book I wasn't particularly bothered when JK got rid of him.

[mevam]

Are werewolves supposed to be hairless?

I had always imagined it to be as ferocious and dark-haired as say Padfoot, but for some reason it looked like Lupin was in a silver lycra suit of some sort, because the werewolf was just so shiny. I didn't like that CGI of the movie, otherwise the effects were fine.

David Thewlis is a great actor, and he really played his part well, although I was a little creeped out by his Hitler moustache, they probably should have gotten rid of it. His robes weren't nearly as shabby as I had hoped since I didn't even notice a hole on his cloak until the Shrieking Shack Scene, which came pretty late in the movie. Thewlis had the little quirks and kind side of Lupin played out really well though, so kudos to him for that.

[loony4moony]

Aw, come on, let's give the 'tache a chance, shall we? :lol: Personally, I had absolutely no problem with it at all.

when I started getting obsessed with him I loved the fact that Lupin was the symbol of the special teacher everybody meets once in a lifetime (or wishes to meet), the one you'll never forget

Couldn't agree more, Airine. I loved the way Thewlis played the boggart scene, finding the post-Riddukulus boggarts just as funny as the students did. It captured Lupin's quiet mischief, his willingness to completely connect with his students- the thing that makes him so special as a teacher.

Did anyone else pick up on that wonderful moment in the Patronus lesson, when harry conjures a succesful Patronus, and there's a shot of Lupin's delighted face? Perfect.

Want...to see...OOTP...now...:grumble:

[Phxtvlr]

I liked Thewlis more the 2nd time that I saw PoA than the 1st time. His mustache really put me OFF the first time, but I was better able to ignore it the 2nd time around. I think he did a good acting job, I'm just not sure that he acted the way I see Lupin in my mind's eye. It seemed to me that Lupin should be shabby, but with a strong character and Thewlis seemed to....I don't know...tone him down (?) more than I would have liked and of course- wardrobe neatened him up a little too much.

I think he did a wonderful job in the scene where he yells at Harry for the Maurderer's Map. :clap: But I am upset with the editing of all his scenes and hope that a little bit will be restored in the DVD version. :sigh:

[Mental2k]

I think He was ace though he should definitely lose the moustache for any subsiquent films as it is well gay, and is definitely not in keeping with how lupin should be, also is he not a bit too well built to be lupin?

[herbertsandbach]

If you have a moustache that makes you gay lol, I'll tell that to my dad he's a 6ft 4 policeman I'm sure he'll be interested in your ideas.....he'll find it funny...lol.

[loony4moony]

*parades up and down the topic with a placard*

Give the 'tache a chance! Give the 'tache a chance!

Come on, did you really think it made that much difference? :)

[PallasAthene]

I liked David Lewlis as Lupin. He did a great job. Though when I first heard that he was going to play Lupin, I didn't like the idea much. Well, that's because the only moive I saw with him in it was "Dragon Heart" and he's EVIL in it! Of course I just saw him in "Timeline" (great movie btw).
I personally liked the part where he yeld at Harry. Lupin isn't a yeller, but that scene fit. Even though he's never seen Harry sense he was a baby, he'd still care enough for him to say something like that.
Now I can't wait to see OotP! I like GoF, but PoA & OotP are my favorites!
Side note here : did anyone know that he's desided to return as Lupin in OotP?
Which I'm glad of. I HATE it when the change the people that used to do the characters!

[loony4moony]

Has he decided to return? Brilliant! :D Where did you read that?

[Sredni Vashtar]

Am I the only one who didn't really notice the stache and wouldn't care if I did? David Thewlis is a good actor, and I'm sure the mustache does not diminish acting talent.

If it did, Johnny Depp would not have been nominated for an Oscar. Nor would Richard Harris, or Richard Farnsworth, or Benicio del Toro, or Julia Roberts.

Sheesh, you people and your anti-Lupin mustache rants.

[Guardian Angel]

I really liked him. And I thought I'd hate him. What a difference, eh?

Remus was one of my most favourite chaarcters ever since I've read the book 3. I imagined him quite handsome; shabby, but still very good looking. And when I saw the first photo of Movie!Lupin - the one with mustache - I was horrified. I was convinced I could never like him again...

... and was very wrong. David Thewlis proved as a great actor, which I didn't know before. And was quite likeable too! I forgave him the moustache- they aren't that abd, after all.

The only thing that kind of bothered me, but not really, was his speech about Lily. He really amde it obvious he was in lvoe with her... [that's how I saw it anyways] JK never said it... but Kloves still think Lupin loved Lily... so... hm... it doesn't matter. :p

[PallasAthene]

Has he decided to return? Brilliant! :D Where did you read that?I heard it here... http://www.snitchseeker.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=28029&hl=Remus+Lupin

Here's another interesting piece of information...He was going to audition for the role of Quirrel! But he said that is friend got it.
You can read it here... http://www.snitchseeker.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=28162&hl=Remus+Lupin

[Twilight]

I love David Thewlis and I thought he was GREAT at playing Lupin. He did a wonderful job, and I liked him in the part a lot. Can't imagine a better person playing him.

[RemusLupinFan]

It's funny...when I first saw pictures of Thewlis as Lupin, I was bothered by the moustach. But I didn't even notice it at all when I saw the movie, I was far too busy watching the way he portrayed Lupin. Thewlis was brilliant IMO, and I'm so glad to hear that he'll be returning for OotP. :tu:

[glugunkwen]

I loved Thewlis as Lupin! There was a fragileness he brought to the character that was unexpected and yet seemed completely appropriate.

[gottaloveLupin]

Finally saw the movie- twice.
I loved Lupin.
I knew from you that he was very good, but I didn't expect to like him so much.
In the train scene I thought he was too funny and i didn't like him too much.
But then, the Boggart lesson. That was absolutely brilliant.

ABSOLUTELY LOVED HIM. I kept saying during the movie: I love Lupin, brilliant job.

Now, Lupin didn't seem in love with Lilly. His speach wasn't about love, was about friendship and was a hint to a dark secret that Lupin had.
That was all.

[NiCk RiDdLe]

Not what I expect on how the actor looked like. But his actions were basically what I expected since i havn't read PoA for a while lol.

[Winterfell]

He definitely wasn't the way I was expecting him to look but that is to be expected. I ended up liking him very much though, I believe he did the character justice.

[Morgan LeFay]

I just love the way David Thewlis portrayed Lupin. He is not exactly the same as book character, but have the same soul. I think he acts the way book Lupin would act. He did really great job.

[Dottie]

*parades up and down the topic with a placard*

Give the 'tache a chance! Give the 'tache a chance!

Come on, did you really think it made that much difference? :)

What? :wow: There's fuss over a moustache? I can't see how it brought the character down in the least. Not to insult those who don't like it, mind you, your opinions are yours. But I personally can't see how it affected the role in the least or tarnished the story.

[Katarzyna]

What? :wow: There's fuss over a moustache? I can't see how it brought the character down in the least. Not to insult those who don't like it, mind you, your opinions are yours. But I personally can't see how it affected the role in the least or tarnished the story.
I don't think most people are saying that.... The mustache looks weird to most people at first, and then they get used to it. They're just commenting on it. Better that than pretend it's not there.

[Dottie]

I don't think most people are saying that.... The mustache looks weird to most people at first, and then they get used to it. They're just commenting on it. Better that than pretend it's not there.

Ah, okay, I misunderstood then. ;) Thanks for clearing that up. But yes, I can agree, it would be quite the task to block it out. ;)

[Safia]

I was a little down when I heard he was going to be Lupin. The only thing I'd seen him in though was Dragonheart and he played that horrible little prince/king thing. Dragonheart wasn't one of my favourite movies and I admit that I was a bit put of that HE would be playing Lupin. I wasn't expected (or wanting) Jude Law or anything like that, but I imagined Lupin a bit differently. I imagined him a little bit like a history teacher at my school and the pictures of David Thewlis that I'd seen didn't quite meet my minds eye.

However, I entered the cinema feeling optimisitc. They had so far chosen some very good actors. Alan Rickman, Kenneth Branagh, Maggie Smith etc to play the adults. And I loved David Thewlis as Lupin. He now is Lupin, completely. he is such a good actor too and my initial judgement of him being in Dragonheart vanished. I had always liked Lupin in the books; my three favourite adult characters Being Lupin, Snape and Black, and I was worried he wasn't going to meet my expetations. Strangely Gary Oldman didn't worry me that much, but perhaps that was because he was more or less xactly how I thought Black would look like, perhaps except for all those tattoos. David Thewlis for me, was definately the right choice of actor and has become very quickly, one of my favourites. I am eager to see him in his other movies.

[RJBradbrook]

i imagined Lupin to have a more forceful nature, like when he was telling harry off. aside from that i think David Thewlis did a fine job
(wasn't a big fan of the moustache though)

[loony4moony]

What? There's fuss over a moustache? I can't see how it brought the character down in the least. Not to insult those who don't like it, mind you, your opinions are yours. But I personally can't see how it affected the role in the least or tarnished the story.

Aaaargh, I think I have been misunderstood! :blush: If you read my post on the previous page, you'll see that I'm defending the moustache! I didn't have any problem with it whatsoever, and can't understand why there's been so much fuss. My campaign was against the 'tache-bashers...if that makes any sense....

*gets confused*

*re-reads previous posts*

No...hang on...I think you knew that....

*gets even more confused*

*crawls out of topic*

[gottaloveLupin]

I hate man wuth moustache.
The funny thing is David did such a brilliant job, that I didn't even realize that he had a moustache.

[PallasAthene]

I was a little down when I heard he was going to be Lupin. The only thing I'd seen him in though was Dragonheart and he played that horrible little prince/king thing. Dragonheart wasn't one of my favourite movies and I admit that I was a bit put of that HE would be playing Lupin. I wasn't expected (or wanting) Jude Law or anything like that, but I imagined Lupin a bit differently. I imagined him a little bit like a history teacher at my school and the pictures of David Thewlis that I'd seen didn't quite meet my minds eye.^ I know what you mean. I had only seen him in DragonHeart as well and I didn't like him in it. Maybe it was because he played a nasty Prince? *rolles eyes* The only other ones I've seen him in are of course PoA and Timeline.

[TerrierMom]

He didn't look much how I imagined Lupin, but he did act a bit like how I imagined him.

[Master Bere]

yes, for my surprise I liked him very much, because first of all, I'm a huge fan of Ewan McGregor and maybe you heard all the buzz about Ewan playing Lupin, and I was really in love of the idea (you know one of my biggest crushes related with hp,it was just too perfect!) but when I came down to earth and I heard of this guy David playing it and I saw the first pics of him , I didn't like him at all (but I wasn´t being objective) so when I saw the trailers and more pics of him as Lupin I still hadn't change my mind, but watching the movie I honestly can say that I enjoyed him a lot as Lupin, I think despite he's still not how I imagine Lupin, he managed to potrait all the characterists that we love of Lupin and that made me to appraise his work, with mustache or not :p

[Morgan LeFay]

We can only hope that he'll shave for Ootp. :lol:
Although I don't mind if he had a moustache or not.

[herbertsandbach]

I enjoyed Thewlis in Dinotopia too if anyones seen that, again he plays an untrustworthy evil guy so Lupin will be a change for Thewlis to be a good guy. Macnair had a tache in the book not a goatee like in the film and no-ones kicking off about that. Whats the big deal with facial hair everybody...lol. Maybe its just the bad guys who people see with taches Vernon,Macnair etc....., I'd also like to note why do all the females on here all fancy the baddies Snape,Lucius,Draco. Me thinks we have to get a bit mean with the ladies fellas as thats what there's going for !!!

[Katarzyna]

Whats the big deal with facial hair everybody...lol.
Look at it this way... what if Harry or Ron sported a mustache in Goblet of Fire? What if that mustache was weird-looking? What do you think fans' reactions would be then?

[loony4moony]

:lol: That is sort of different, though...

*can't get strange image out of her mind*

[lupinsgurl]

What's the matter with the moustache? I didn't mind it at all. I thought David Thewlis did a great job and he is one of my favourite actors. Strange though, I prefered him as Lupin than Ewan McGregor (oh my gosh, I love that dude...my favourite actor). Maybe it's because Ewan seems a bit too young to play Lupin. By the way, I know I'm getting so off-topic, but I love Ewan in the Star Wars prequels as Obi-Wan Kenobi, mainly because Star Wars is my other love. Okay, back to the topic. I personally thought Thewlis actually put himself in the Lupin role very carefully. And about the moustache...I actually thought he is very good-looking with it. In other words, he's HOT :cool:. Thumbs up for Dave!!! :tu: :tu:

[Artanis]

*parades up and down the topic with a placard*

Give the 'tache a chance! Give the 'tache a chance!

Come on, did you really think it made that much difference? :)

:lol : *joins loony*

I heard it here... http://www.snitchseeker.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=28029&hl=Remus+Lupin

Here's another interesting piece of information...He was going to audition for the role of Quirrel! But he said that is friend got it.
You can read it here... http://www.snitchseeker.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=28162&hl=Remus+Lupin




*stare* *stare* *stare*

WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*tackles PallasAthene in a bear hug* Ooh, thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you THANK YOU for posting that link!!!!!!!

My world is now complete.

*does an insane dance of joy*

[Shyalyne]

I really liked Thewlis as Lupin. I was a little skeptical at first, but only because I've seen him in other things and didn't like him very much. (which I suppose is a tribute to his acting skills) Now I can't imagine Lupin any other way. I think he was perfectly cast.

[Katarzyna]

I did like Thewlis as Lupin, very much so, but he hasn't changed my image of Book!Lupin. Which is perfectly fine by me--it's like having two great Lupins instead of one. :)

[ragga]

thlewis i think was really good at playing lupin...he kinda of looked a little like how i imagined though the hairstyle was different to what i imagined...his characters attitude was good the way he was shy and like embarresed about the wolf...
i also liked that little touch with the music...it made him feel more down to earth and laid back compared to the others such as snape...

[shortie]

he didn't look so great though. the line on his face was weird

[dafyd]

he didn't look so great though. the line on his face was weirdThe 'lines' were scratches from his times as a werewolf.

I thought Thewlis was really good - I honestly didn't know how to picture Lupin before the film, but Thewlis fits perfectly!

[amy_gamgee]

I'm sorry, but I don't think I can get on board with the mustache! :)

I do, however, think Thewlis did a great job portraying Lupin. The scene with Harry on the bridge was very touching... it was just how I imagined the similiar scene in the book.

I guess I just picture Lupin more like the illustration on the back cover of OoTP - US edition.

[RemusLupinFan]

The 'lines' were scratches from his times as a werewolf.
I thought that was a good addition to his appearance. Those scratches gave a sense of how violent his alter ego could be.

I thought Thewlis was really good - I honestly didn't know how to picture Lupin before the film, but Thewlis fits perfectly!
That was exactly my problem before I saw the film. I now have a very clear picture of him. Thank you David Thewlis!

[PallasAthene]

Whats the big deal with facial hair everybody...lol.
Look at it this way... what if Harry or Ron sported a mustache in Goblet of Fire? What if that mustache was weird-looking? What do you think fans' reactions would be then?^Now there's a mentel image I didn't need! :lol:


The 'lines' were scratches from his times as a werewolf.
I thought that was a good addition to his appearance. Those scratches gave a sense of how violent his alter ego could be.
^I didn't like it at frist, but now I think that it is a good addition as well. I alway imagined Remus with scars from being a werewolf, but never on his face.

*stare* *stare* *stare*

WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*tackles PallasAthene in a bear hug* Ooh, thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you THANK YOU for posting that link!!!!!!!

My world is now complete.

*does an insane dance of joy*^Your welcome! *huges Artanis back* I'm glad I helped make your world complete! :lol:

Though Thewlis didn't look like I imagined Remus to look like from the books, he did act just like I thought Remus would. (I loved that music in the DADA class! And the bridge scene was great as well!So touching...) I've always thought of Remus as a very caring person and that's what came across in PoA, much to my joy.
Sence he did such a wonderful job in PoA, I just can't wait for OotP when he has to hold Harry back in the MoM. A sad part I know *sniff*. It's been a year and I still miss Sirius! *sniff**sniff*

[emerald eyes]

I think he did a wonderful job with the part. My biggest dislike (as already mentioned) is the little hairy animal on his upper lip. Which Fantastical Beast do ya'll think it is? :)
Sorry, but it just bothers me.

As I stated in another thread, his mustache makes him look like the Duke from Moulin Rouge. The duke was just such a pansy and acted very feminine!!! And now I keep seeing the Duke as Lupin in my head!! Help!!

The scars on his face did bother me for awhile but now I think I can deal with them if they just make the hair go away!!

OK his acting was great, just not the looks!! (But he is quite good looking minus any facial hair.) :rotfl:

[MnMbabe]

I though Thewlis did an amazing job as Lupin. He was exactly what i pictured - all except the mustache. Its not that big of a deal, i just didnt think it suited him at all. Hopefully he stays on with the movies! He is brilliant!

[AcrylicDrama]

Yeah, I agree about the Moulin Rouge mustache, hahaha.

But other than that, I thought he was really suited to the character, especially in terms of his voice.

[Jessica]

Acrylic Drama you're right about his voice. He sounded just like I heard Lupin ini my head. :)

I wan't sure what to think whne I saw his picture because visually he is nothing like the Lupin I had in my head. But I though that he really brought Lupin's kindness to the surface.

Just don't get me started on the "werewolf" :lol:

[Fox_face]

I enjoyed his portrayal, but it wasn’t what I was expecting. But, when I was reading, I also hadn’t visualized the ravages of his lifestyle. Although, as many others have mentioned, if I hadn’t read the books, his character would not have come through so clearly. There just wasn’t enough time to get in enough characterization and carry the plot.

The 1940s imagery around him worked well (his clothes, whiskers and choice of music).
Still, he didn’t look exactly shabby. True he was rumpled and scarred. Even though his clothes were out of style they weren’t patched up. He looked more sloppy than ragged. That did not mesh with the rest of the movie characterization. His office was packed with books, cases and artifacts, but kept fairly neat.

He did come across as very kind, yet somewhat awkward. I liked the scene where he yelled a Harry after finding the map. He would be incredulous that Harry was so casually risking his life after his (Lupin’s) best friends died to save it. It wasn’t out of character. Like Credo Buffa mentioned, he’s acting like a father figure. There was also a distinctly artistic feel to the way Thewlis played the character. It’s in the way he moves. He also holds his wand like an artist holds a brush.

He did look consistently ill considering he couldn’t stand up straight during the whole movie. Except for the very end, as Harry watches him walk through the classroom, when he’s leaning on a cane and walking very straight indeed. Perhaps he’s just that proud of Harry?

Thewlis has a wonderfully distinct voice that is definitely on par with the rest of the cast. His acting skills are there as well. He definitely rendered a character to whom I wanted to give a great big hug and tell everything’s going to be okay. It will be heart-breaking to watch him suffer as we know he will.

[HermWeasley]

I think both Thewlis and Oldman did a great job as Lupin and Sirius, but Lupin and Sirius being two of my favorite characters, the feel of the two of them just wasn't there. Maybe I'm being weird, but it just wasn't right for me.

[DougJohnston]

I thought he really played the part well, he looked like the Lupin i pictured while reading the books.

[Secretofshadows]

I thought he was a great Lupin :love:. I loved him . I looked it up and he is going to be in the rest of the Harry Potter movies. You can look it up on www.comingsoon.net.

[Mr_Moony_123]

Yea! I love MR. MOONY!

[QueenMab1]

David Thewlis was better than I could have imagined as Lupin. He is a very gifted actor and while he is not what I imagined Lupin to look like ( I can't even describe how I thought Lupin should look) I am glad he has the part. I think that like Snape there is much more to be uncovered about him.

[morgan le fay]

Fox face, thats a very good post. :clappy:

similarly, i guess i hadnt really imagined his impoverished appearance all that strongly except where noted in the text by jkr. when i saw POA with a friend, he leaned over during the boggart scene and said "did he turn on an old record player in this scene in the book?" and i said "no.... but i like it!" :lol: the movie definitely molded a lupin for me that admittedly, i hadnt really thought of all that much in depth before.

david thewlis isnt how i imagined lupin........ but he does a good job. i agree with many of you, he does have a distinct voice for the part. its not really a fatherly voice to me, but more the voice of a friend. like a mentor should be. :)

does JKR say in the books anywhere that lupin has a moustache? i never pictured him with one.... :shrug: sorry

[loony4moony]

Yey! Glad I've got some support on the anti-'tache-basher march! :lol:

I've been reading all your comments, and now I can't wait to see PofA again and appreciate Thewlis's brilliant performance all the more. I'll hopefully be going this afternoon, and I'll be watching the guy like a hawk all the way through the film!

Posted by Morgan le faywhen i saw POA with a friend, he leaned over during the boggart scene and said "did he turn on an old record player in this scene in the book?" and i said "no.... but i like it!" the movie definitely molded a lupin for me that admittedly, i hadnt really thought of all that much in depth before.

'Excellent!' (as Lupin himself would say...:lol:). There were a lot of little touches like that music in the DADA class, which I wouldn't have imagined as a part of the book Lupin, but added a lovely depth of characterisation to the film Lupin. No, Thewlis's Lupin didn't perfectly match my mental Lupin- but as Katarzyna said, I now have two wonderful Lupins instead of one!

[Kimmetje]

I think Lupin was different in PoA then I thought he would be, because he was a lot darker in the movie. :eyebrows:

[Scarlet Lily]

After seeing the film I think that David Thewlis was an excellent choice to play Lupin. Although I was a little hesitant at first, he didn't look anything like what I had imagined he would, such hesitations were swept away by his performance which I found to be spot on. He had the perfect mix of quiet strength, humour and wisdom (personally I have always considered him to have many of the same qualities that Dumbledore has). I enjoyed the music in the boggart class, the interaction with Sirius in the shrieking shack and when undergoing his transformation, the way he talked to Harry about James and Lily... alright I enjoyed everything that brought the character of Lupin to life including that which grounded him, for example his reaction to Harry out late at night with the map. In summary I thought Lupin in the film was the bees knees, and he can keep the Lupin from the books company in my mind.

[morgan le fay]

hehe

anyone know if lupin is mentioned as having a moustache in the books???? this is driving me nuts and i lent my copy of POA to my boyfriend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (ive poisoned him with so much daily HP talk that now hes reading them too. hehehe and the madness spreads :evil: )

[~Tonks~]

:love: I LOVED Thewlis as Lupin... Obviously! :blush:

I can't wait until they make OotP and he comes back... I just hope that he still does it, though I don't see why he wouldn't...

I imagined Lupin to look very much like him, and he captures Lupin's character well, in my opinion. He just looks like a gentle man in PoA, someone you can trust, even though he is a werewolf. Who cares! :rotfl:

I'm glad he didn't play Quirrel...

[PhineasNigellus]

:love: I LOVED Thewlis as Lupin... Obviously! :blush:

I can't wait until they make OotP and he comes back... I just hope that he still does it, though I don't see why he wouldn't...


I read a small article in Who magazine (Australia's equivalent to US's People) and he mentioned he was reading OOTP because he's going to be in it. I don't have the article with me now so I can't quote it, but he sounded pretty certain.

When I first saw pics from POA, I thought Thewlis was a bad choice, but after seeing the movie, I love him as Lupin and I couldn't imagine anyone else. He's a fantastic actor and plays Lupin with a calm air and a gentleness that might not have been apparent with any other actor. And I agree with everyone else who said his voice was perfect for Lupin. I didn't picture Lupin with a mo though, but I like that now too.

[SiriusBlack22]

I pictured Lupin EXTREMELY unshaven, shaggy and with long hair. I didn't argue much because in POA it did seem like Lupin enough to me...

[edina_monsoon]

You know the scene where Lupin says Harry's parents died for him and he's showing them no respect by acting the way he does (sneaking out of the castle) which is in both the book and the movie - does anyone else find this in bad taste? I couldn't ever imagine using the guilt of an orphaned child's parents death against him.

Aside from that; follow me here. That tone was out of place in the book, it didn't fit Lupin's character. But in the film, I felt the entire Lupin was like that, didn't sit quite right. Oh well.

[Da_Chinkster]

I liked Thewlis as Lupin and I think he got hold of the character well, but I didnt like the presentation of the character. He was a bit too well groomed and did not look ill when he was supposed to be looking awful

[snape_sinclaire]

Thewlis as Prof. Lupin was fine with me, but I never pictured him with a mustache. They could have made him look more sickly and ragged, but otherwise he was okay.

[Katarzyna]

:welcome: edina_monsoon!

You know the scene where Lupin says Harry's parents died for him and he's showing them no respect by acting the way he does (sneaking out of the castle) which is in both the book and the movie - does anyone else find this in bad taste? I couldn't ever imagine using the guilt of an orphaned child's parents death against him.
Excellent point--I never really looked at it that way. Do you mind if I quote your paragraph here on the All About Remus Lupin (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=1072584#post1072584) thread, since it's in both the books and in the movie? I think we could get some good discussion over there.

[PallasAthene]

You know the scene where Lupin says Harry's parents died for him and he's showing them no respect by acting the way he does (sneaking out of the castle) which is in both the book and the movie - does anyone else find this in bad taste? I couldn't ever imagine using the guilt of an orphaned child's parents death against him.

Aside from that; follow me here. That tone was out of place in the book, it didn't fit Lupin's character. But in the film, I felt the entire Lupin was like that, didn't sit quite right. Oh well.
I can see you point about using an orphaned child's dead parents against him....BUT you also have to remember that Remus was upset. He's lost James, Lily, Peter and even Sirius -- he didn't know the truth then -- and Harry was the closest thing he had that still connected him to a past that he loved. He had friends that didn't care that he was a werewolf, they saw him for him and NOT for the moster that laid just under the surface, like everyone else did. In his own way, he cared/cares for Harry, and loosing him would probable kill him. Please understand that I DO agree with that statment, but like I said before, Remus was upset, he thought, just like everyone else, that Sirius was out to kill him, and he just couldn't bear for it to happened.
When people are upset they do and say things they normaly wouldn't do.
So, with that, I'd say that the movie Remus did it right. Even if that isn't how he's protrayed in the books. But the movies are NEVER like the books they come from...Sometimes a sad thing, but true.

[edina_monsoon]

hey, thanks for the welcome. Quote away! ;)

[Elf]

I definitely thought David Thewlis was excellent as Lupin. He portrayed him just as he should be--a tad worn and shabby, yet so full of class at the same time. He played the role of Harry's mentor with sensitivity, yet made sure that Remus came across as strong and resilient as well. He gave us that necessary emotional connection to Harry's parents, especially seeing as the script fell short in expressing the history and importance of the Marauders.

I thought the 1920's touches they added to his character were great. The tweed suits he wore, his music, that era-gone-by feel they gave him were nice details that I thought expressed Lupin's personality well.

I don't agree when people say that Lupin looked sloppy in the movie as if it was a negative thing. He wears suits and ties and as vintage and worn as they looked, it still seemed to me that he was trying to be professional, while portraying a feeling of comfortableness. The soft browns and shabby tweeds of his clothing seemed appropriate for his depiction of an "old friend" much like you would picture your favourite old arm chair or favourite slippers—comfortable, familiar, well-loved.

I thought his acting throughout was superb, but it was particularily memorable in the Shrieking Shack scene. When Snape bursts through the door and confronts Sirius, Thewlis’ body language was so appropriate for Lupin. Every time he would try to interject, Snape would tell him to stay out of it, and he would physically retreat and make awkward gestures, expressing so clearly his inner conflict. He showed very well that Remus was trying to be forceful, but it was not in his nature to do so. It was a bit of acting I’ll always remember because it spoke volumes about a great character.

I also liked the scene at the end when Lupin is packing his few belongings. The way his things magically and precisely pop into place and the trunks all close was a great representation of Lupin’s character. Although he has lived a traumatic, misunderstood and lonely life he doesn’t seem to have a lot of emotional baggage. He has learned to be accepting of his affliction and the trials that come with it. His emotions are tidy. While Harry is despairing, Lupin is reassuring.

Overall, I think David Thewlis gave a memorable and fitting performance as Remus Lupin, so memorable in fact that it effects how I now see the character when I read the books.

[ornjbreezy]

I was really disappointed in the PoA Lupin. I hate the mustache with a passion, and I think he was way too open with Harry. I mean, these two just met, and Harry's treating him like his real father! I'm pretty sure their relationship was different in the books. This Lupin seems too aggressive- he seemed much more reserved in the books. I'm so sad that they didn't portray one of my favorite characters the way I would have liked.

[freakynewt]

Quite frankly, this Lupin looked like a German footsoldier.

"Vhat? Come vif me, Harry Potter, or GET VILLED UP WITH LEAD! ...BERLIN!"

On a more serious note: Really, I pictured him totally differently...but then again, most of the Harry Potter movie characters are different from my mind's eye (with the exception of Ron, Harry and Hermi).

Of course, I wasn't expecting any A-list actors to play Lupin, like Jude Law (I actually read this on the internet). Haha.

[IheartLupin12]

I also pictured Lupin completely differently. The mustache really had to go(a point made over and over again by everyone!) and his hair could have been longer...but all that aside, I just wanted to give him a hug when watching him in the movie. Thewlis did a great job with his mannerisms and facial expressions, giving him a "Lovable-outcast" kind of look.

[loony4moony]

Wonderful post, Elf. :tu: I saw POA for the second time yesterday, and your post has made me appreciate Thewlis's performance all the more.

I thought the 1920's touches they added to his character were great. The tweed suits he wore, his music, that era-gone-by feel they gave him were nice details that I thought expressed Lupin's personality well.

I also noticed another, rather endearing touch- all of Lupin's clothes have the appearence of being very slightly too large for him. This adds to his aura of vague, comfortable shabbiness.

I love a comment that someone made earlier in this thread, about Thewlis's Lupin being a 'war veteran', as shown by his scars and his walking with the cane. Lupin is not only a veteran of the first war with Voldemort, but of all the things the world has thrown at him- being a werewolf, and the loss of his friends.

Quite frankly, this Lupin looked like a German footsoldier.

Not every single man in Germany has a moustache, you know. ;) Strangely enough, some English men have them too.

[Creatively Evil]

I also pictured Lupin completely differently. The mustache really had to go(a point made over and over again by everyone!) and his hair could have been longer...but all that aside, I just wanted to give him a hug when watching him in the movie. Thewlis did a great job with his mannerisms and facial expressions, giving him a "Lovable-outcast" kind of look.

Yeah, Lupin did give me the feeling of being a "loveable-outcast" in the movie, but more in the books :). I pictured Lupin having brownish gray hair, no mustache, shorter, and constantly tired, with super shabby clothes.

[Kimmetje]

I thought Lupin would have more hair! The guy who played him was almost bold. I also thought of Lupin as a friendly person and I didn't think the guy who played him looked either friendly or is friendly...

[SnapesProdigy]

As soon as news was released regarding Thewlis as Lupin, I knew he would be perfect for the role, having seen him in 'Black Beauty'. However, my heart sunk when I saw that ridiculous moustache they had stuck on him...I mean, what on earth was the point of adding facial hair? There were plenty of other ways they could have aged him, if that was the intention...and if the intention of the moustache was to assist the audience in making the connection to his lycanthropy...well, what can I say, lol?


He played the part to perfection...sure, he didnt come across as this totally warm, cuddly person, but if you look again at the book, neither does the lupin in there. Lupin has what I would call a 'gentle strength' and Thewlis portrayed that very efficiently.

[freakynewt]

Not every single man in Germany has a moustache, you know. Strangely enough, some English men have them too.

When I saw him in the trailers, he reminded me of the general look of Germans from the late 1800's (like Bismarck or whoever). But there is no doubt in my mind that there are clean-shaven members of the German militia living in the world. :p

[Elder Granger]

Personally, I think David Thewlis' acting was wonderful, but, I have some sort of problems with the portrayal of the character in general, not through the acting, but through the writing... I thought PoA was an excellent movie, but not Harry Potter, I know JKR collaborated on the screenplay, but, I think that makes it worse... There were some things she had to have said were necessary, and it felt like things were just stuck in... A lot of the dialogue was out of the book, but said by the wrong person... And, that is where I think Lupin looses a lot of his characterization and flare because he is saying things that aren't his to say, and other people are saying what he has to say (like Hermione saying fear of a name only increases fear of a thing itself in CoS the movie- that is Dumbledore's line, and because Hermione says it she looses some of her childlike qualities and Dmbledore looses his role as the informative learned one with the clear perspective). This one was particularly hard to evaluate though because Lupin and Sirius are my favorite characters, and I think there is SO much more to them than was in the movie.

[Elf]

original post by loony4moony
I also noticed another, rather endearing touch- all of Lupin's clothes have the appearence of being very slightly too large for him. This adds to his aura of vague, comfortable shabbiness.

I love a comment that someone made earlier in this thread, about Thewlis's Lupin being a 'war veteran', as shown by his scars and his walking with the cane. Lupin is not only a veteran of the first war with Voldemort, but of all the things the world has thrown at him- being a werewolf, and the loss of his friends.

That's so true about his clothes being slightly oversized! Almost as though he has to thrift shop because he has little money and he tries his best to look decent with what he has to work with. I believe it is when he is instructing Harry on how to conjure a patronus that he is wearing a greyish, oversized cardigan with big pockets. It portrays him as being more on a personal level with Harry during that moment--again, comfortable and familiar.

It also reminds me of Harry having to wear Dudley's over-sized hand-me-downs. That was one of the first things I found endearing about Harry too. Remus & Harry actually have a lot in common with the hand they've been dealt in life.

That is such a wonderful analogy about Thewlis' Lupin seeming like a war vetran! He is definitely someone who has had to fight his own inner battles because of his affliction, not to mention battles concerning how he is perceived by the world, yet he is heroic in that he selflessly puts these things aside in order to fight the bigger war. Very moving image of his character!

[LowKi]

To be honest, I thought he was awful as him. His look was terrible, too clean, the moustache did not suit the character (not one that well kept anyway), and he generally seemed very camp and to well presented. He played his part well,but the part itself was VERY poorly written, the writers had not got hold of this character atall. He was one of the biggest dissapointments and major detractions in the film.

[mrssirius]

I think the HP movies are cast VERY well. David Thewlis played a good Lupin, imo. However, the werewolf needed some work. It seemed kinda lame.

[loony4lupin]

I thought Lupin was awesome in PoA. He didn't quite look as I imagined but I still liked him.

[PallasAthene]

I think that they mixed up Remus' and Sirius' looks. Remus should have been clean shaven(NO mustache!), and Sirius need at lest mid-length hair, not to mention that it really needed to be matted! Sirius seem too clean! I mean, after twelve years in Azkaban do you think anyone would look good? And he was way to worried about getting at Pettigrew to cut and clean his hair.
"Hmmm...I think I'll clean myself so that no one will smell me."
I'm sorry, but I just don't think he'd say/do that. :shrug:
And like others have said, Thewlis played the part wonderfully, but his part was written poorly. I don't know about anyone else, but PoA was the one I've been waiting for ever sense they started making the films, and I think they slightly ruined it. I was fine with everything in the film, except to the shrieking shack scene. It really need to be longer. That's where you learn about the Marauders and who Remus was to Harry's father, and Sirius too. All that came out of it was that Remus was a werewolf and that Sirius wasn't the one that betrayed Harry's parents, it was Peter.
I really liked that Alfonso (sp?) put some focus on the trio, but that really should have been done in the 1st movie. They should have focused more on Remus and Sirius in PoA.
All in all, the movie was well done. I just wish that the shrieking shack scene was longer. *shrug*

[Elf]

Original post by PallasAthene
"Hmmm...I think I'll clean myself so that no one will smell me."
I'm sorry, but I just don't think he'd say/do that.

LOL! I just had a nasty image of Sirius doing the old "armpit sniff" behind the door when he is hiding in the Shrieking Shack--too funny!

I wished that Sirius' hair had been more like in the book too, but Gary Oldman appeared rather short compared to David Thewlis so perhaps they thought that would make him look too much like a good luck troll:)

I actually liked David Thewlis' hair for the role of Lupin and although I can sense many of you shaking your heads, I didn't even mind the mustache. He looked very 1920' which Ithought really worked. HOWEVER, I agree that the werewolf depiction of Lupin was far too bald! Who would ever picture a werewolf anything other than shaggy?

[WickedWitch21]

I think things must be considered separately:

1) About David Thewlis' performance, I think he was great.
2) As for the way Lupin was conceived, there might be a few things to point out: the moustache, his being too shabby, the fact that he was quite taller than Sirius (Gary Oldman). But I don't think these little details are enough to overshadow the general conception.