"Dark and difficult times lie ahead."
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - Characters & Cast
Character Analysis
Harry Potter
Daniel Radcliffe
Motivation
Initially, he just wants to survive the tournament he was forced into; later, his motivation shifts to protecting those around him and honoring Cedric's memory.
Character Arc
Harry moves from a student trying to enjoy a normal school year to a haunted survivor. By the film's end, he has witnessed the rebirth of his nemesis and the death of a friend, losing his last vestiges of childhood ignorance.
Lord Voldemort
Ralph Fiennes
Motivation
To reclaim his physical form, kill the "Boy Who Lived," and prove his superiority over death itself.
Character Arc
Transitioning from a weak, spectral creature to a physical, terrifying presence. He regains his body and his followers, establishing himself as a tangible threat to the world.
Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody
Brendan Gleeson
Motivation
To deliver Harry to Voldemort while maintaining his cover within Hogwarts.
Character Arc
Appears to be a gruff, protective teacher who helps Harry survive, but is revealed to be Barty Crouch Jr., an impostor who was manipulating Harry's victory to ensure his capture.
Hermione Granger
Emma Watson
Motivation
To protect Harry from the tournament's dangers and navigate her own complicated social entry into adolescence.
Character Arc
She transitions from purely academic support to emotional maturity, dealing with the realization that her friends (particularly Ron) do not yet understand her as a young woman.
Ron Weasley
Rupert Grint
Motivation
To step out of Harry's shadow and be recognized for his own merits, though this is hampered by his insecurities.
Character Arc
Struggles with inferiority and jealousy, leading to a temporary falling out with Harry. He eventually reconciles, recognizing the true danger Harry faces.