This change in Ron’s character also comes at the expense of his relationship with Hermione, too, which is later a beautiful romance. This often reinforces the idea that Ron is lesser than Harry and Hermione, lessening his character development and harming his relationships with the two of them along the way. However, the movies usually used Ron simply for a quick laugh, like taking advantage of his fear of spiders for some comedic relief or making light of his near-death poisoning experience with the mead in Slughorn’s office. Ron is very knowledgeable about the things he feels passionate about, like Quidditch or Hermione, but he’s capable of learning and becomes a mighty fine wizard capable of handling himself in the final battle with the Death Eaters and Voldemort ( Ralph Fiennes). It’s repeatedly said that Harry and Ron are on the same level academically with Harry having just a bit more skill as a wizard. Sure, he has his moments, like all teenage boys do (including Harry), but he’s fairly intelligent. It’s disappointing because that’s not who Ron is in the books in the slightest.
This is particularly true in Prisoner of Azkaban, Goblet of Fire, and Half-Blood Prince, but is present in all eight films. One of the most egregious changes from book to screen is the choice to make Ron practically nothing more than Harry’s goofy, insignificant, and empty-headed sidekick.
