In a new interview, Movie 5 director David Yates spoke about how, having produced politically charged films like The Girl In the Cafe, he was surprised when approached to direct OOTP.

Yates, who had never read the Harry Potter books, said: "It was interesting to get the call. I wouldn't have put myself forward as an obvious candidate." However, after reading Order of the Phoenix, he realized the novel had strong political overtones. "And it's probably the most emotional of all the books. As I read the book, suddenly, I tuned into the kind of thing I have always been drawn to."

Yates also spoke a little about Umbridge, saying she is "quite damaged as a person. She basically abuses Harry and puts him through this horrific detention. It is horrific abuse."