Rank 2: The Death of Frank Bryce
- Movie: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
In the opening scene of “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,” we follow the Muggle caretaker Frank Bryce. Just being able to tell the story from a Muggle’s perspective is unique, as the films tend to avoid this.
Frank worked for his entire life as a caretaker and gardener at the Riddle house. Even after the unexplained deaths of the family, he remained alone in the old estate. One night, he is lured out of bed by strange noises. He finds none other than Lord Voldemort, who has taken refuge in his family’s old home. Frank overhears a conversation between Voldemort and Peter Pettigrew before he is caught and murdered.
Overall, the scene is the perfect introduction. It is exciting, mysterious, deviates from usual patterns, yet also integrates known characters. It tells the small, self-contained story of Frank Bryce while simultaneously connecting to the large finale of the film. Additionally, it effectively marks the transition from the earlier, more childlike films to a darker and more mature story.
