Why is Cursed Child Generally Not Liked by the HP Fandom

Introduction:

Harry Potter Cursed Child, the final play in the Harry Potter franchise, has faced significant criticism from a portion of the HP fandom. This article explores the reasons behind this reception, covering characterizations, plot and themes, format, and expectations.

Characterization

Many fans feel that the characters, particularly Harry, Hermione, and Ron, fail to live up to their portrayals in the original books. The play depicts Harry as an overprotective father, a role that diverges from the more nuanced and complex character seen in the Harry Potter series. While fans appreciate the original portrayals of these characters, they find the play's portrayal to be a departure, which contributes to their dissatisfaction.

Plot and Themes

The storyline of Cursed Child involves time travel and alternate realities, concepts that some fans find convoluted and inconsistent with the established lore of the Harry Potter universe. Critics argue that the play heavily relies on nostalgia and fan service, undermining the narrative's development. The reliance on familiar characters and plots, while comforting, fails to provide a fresh and compelling story, leading to a sense of disappointment among the audience.

Format

As a stage play, Cursed Child must adapt to the limitations of a live performance. While this format can enhance certain aspects of storytelling, it also requires a more streamlined and action-packed narrative. However, some fans find the format limiting, as it fails to capture the depth and complexity of the original books, which can be experienced through multiple viewpoints and character developments.

Canon Concerns

Another significant factor in the critical reception is the play's status as canon. Many fans question whether Cursed Child fully aligns with J.K. Rowling's original vision, particularly given that it was not solely written by her. This debate about its place within the larger Harry Potter universe adds to the controversy, as fans feel a sense of ownership over the characters and their stories.

Expectations and Legacy

Given the immense popularity of the original Harry Potter series, expectations for any new addition were extremely high. Fans had invested not only emotionally but also financially in the franchise. Cursed Child, however, did not meet these expectations. The play was met with a mixed reception, with many fans feeling that it failed to live up to the legacy of the original books.

Additional Compliments

In addition to the reasons above, many fans express their dissatisfaction with specific elements of the play:

Abusive Relationship: The portrayal of Harry's relationship with Albus is a contentious issue, with some fans viewing it as potentially abusive. Unfulfilled Sexual Tension: The suggestion that Ron and Hermione not getting together would make Hermione into a bitter and heartless shrew is another point of contention. Inconsistent Plot: The character development and plot of Delphini, a character introduced in the play, are often criticized for lacking coherence and support. Ineffective Characters: While the original Golden Trio is still a significant part of the play, many fans find them to be ineffective and lacking in purpose. They are often seen as headless chickens, unable to contribute meaningfully to the plot's progression. Time Travel Clichés: The use of numerous time travel clichés, which have become predictable and overused in literature and media, detracts from the play's originality and depth.

Conclusion:

The criticism of Cursed Child is multifaceted, involving issues of characterization, plot, and format, as well as concerns around its status within the Harry Potter universe and the expectations set by the original series. While the play has its loyal supporters, it has largely been received negatively by a significant portion of the HP fandom.