25% Think This Harry Potter Moment Went Too Far
The "Harry Potter" series has captivated audiences of all ages for years and continues today, more than a decade after the end of the series. It is filled with countless magical and awe-inspiring moments, such as Harry's first Quidditch match, the gorgeous Yule Ball, and Fred and George Weasley's exciting way to announce that they were dropping out of Hogwarts. However, it is not all fun and games, and throughout the films and books, it becomes clear that there is plenty of darkness alongside the lightheartedness.
It starts off pretty tame with "The Sorcerer's Stone" — though seeing Lord Voldemort's head on the back of Quirrel's will never not be creepy — and more and more awful things happen as the story progresses, some of which that are downright disturbing. A recent poll comprised of 637 people showed us what "Harry Potter" scenes some deem as "too far." From Sirius Black's death in "The Order of the Phoenix" to Hermione Granger's torture at the hands of Bellatrix Lestrange in "The Deathly Hallows," there is one scene that over 25% feel crossed the line.
Dolores Umbridge physically punishes Harry
According to the poll, the scene that had people livid is from Harry's fifth year — particularly his detention with the new professor, Dolores Umbridge. In her eyes, Harry's apparent claims that Lord Voldemort has returned are disrespectful to the Ministry of Magic, which does everything in its power to refuse the truth. Her punishment seems normal enough: Harry has to write "I must not tell lies" on a piece of parchment paper. However, as soon as he starts, the words begin to slice onto the back of his hand. He has to do this multiple times until Umbridge is satisfied. The event leaves Harry's hand permanently scarred.
The scene caused an uproar. Umbridge starts out as unlikeable, given her loyalty to Cornelius Fudge and her purely defensive teaching methods. As soon as she physically punishes Harry for daring to go against the Ministry, there is no redemption for her. It is disturbing to read, and even more disturbing to watch.
To make matters worse, the film implies that Umbridge does not only use this method on Harry, the Ministry's biggest adversary, but on any student who crosses her. Fred and George are seen comforting a young boy, even showing him that their scars have started to fade. It's easy to see why this took first in our poll.