5 Harry Potter movie scenes that should have been in the books

The Harry Potter movies did take some creative liberties, and you know what? I'm a bit in love with it. Book purists can grumble, but some of these additions simply worked. They added depth and emotion, and let's be honest—some of the most visually stunning moments in the entire series. Let's discuss five scenes that were not in the books but completely won me over.

1. Harry and Snape's duel over Dumbledore's death

Harry, filled with emotion, duels Snape in the Great Hall in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, blaming him for the death of Dumbledore.

While In the books, he doesn't. Instead, McGonagall initiates the attack, and Snape immediately defends himself. When Flitwick and Sprout come next, Snape parries their spells successfully but never actually counter-attacks. The film adaptation of this scene is more emotional. It draws from Harry's grief, so the redemption of Snape later becomes even more powerful.

2. Hogwarts' silent tribute to Dumbledore

In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, everyone at Hogwarts stands together in silent mourning with wands at the ready. It is quiet and there is only light holding back the darkness. Together, their wand lights banish the Dark Mark in a quiet but powerful salute to Dumbledore.

Dumbledore gets a grand funeral in the books. His students and teachers and even magical creatures—mermaids, centaurs and Hagrid's half-brother Grawp—show up to honor him. This movie tribute is understated. yet so very powerful, and heartbreaking. With no words, no speeches, the wands ignite in the darkness, keeping the shadows at bay. A low-key tribute, but somehow, the silence speaks volumes. Even now, this scene gives me chills whenever I watch it

3. Bittersweet farewell between Harry and Dudley

The Dursleys were awful, but in a deleted scene from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, Dudley surprises everyone by thanking Harry. The books gave him a quiet moment of redemption: "I don’t think you’re a waste of space."

Aunt Petunia was also meant to have a moment, saying "I lost a sister," but this was cut from the final film. It was a\ touching moment that should have stayed in the film.

4. Neville's surprise (and unrequited) love confession

With the Battle of Hogwarts looming, Neville—ever the unexpected hero—suddenly blurts out his feelings for Luna.

"I'm mad for her! I think it's about time I told her, since we'll probably both be dead by dawn!!"

Neville Longbottom

It's awkward, rushed, and totally Neville. None of this happened in the books, but it's a nice moment of levity in the middle of all the drama. And for those wondering, NO, Neville and Luna never happened. Even J.K. Rowling said so afterward!

5. Hermione and Harry's silent dance

When Ron storms off in Harry Potter and Deathly Hallows: Part 1, Harry invites Hermione to dance. No talks, just "O Children" by Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds as they console each other for a moment.

Not everyone loved this scene, and I get it. But for me, it was never romantic. Two exhausted, stranded friends creating a tiny piece of normal from all of this going so horribly wrong. And honestly? That just makes it more perfect.

Which one of these moments did you relate to? Would you have wanted them in the books?