Richard Harris Vs Michael Gambon Vs Jude Law as Dumbledore

Richard Harris vs. Michael Gambon vs. Jude Law as Dumbledore

Welcome to MsMojo, and in this installment of Versus we’re comparing the three actors who have portrayed Dumbledore in the Wizarding World franchise.

Round 1: Book Accurate

When most fans picture Dumbledore, they think of a whimsical wizard who carries himself with absolute command. Richard Harris fits this description. His portrayal of the character provides the same warmth and understanding Harry receives from Book Dumbledore. He also nails the character’s more cryptic side, as it always seems he’s concealing crucial information he plans to reveal later. Book Dumbledore steals everyone’s attention while he’s in the room – and indeed, when you see Harris on screen, all eyes are on him.

Michael Gambon infamously refused to read the source material. Still, there are some familiarities with the book. His Dumbledore has the character's darker aspects, conveying the headmaster’s ruthlessness and ability to seize control. Those familiar with later entries will see similarities between Gambon and Dumbledore’s dismissive attitude toward Harry in “Order of the Phoenix.” But his decision to almost largely eschew the kinder parts of Dumbledore’s personality seeps away much of the character’s likability.

Since “Fantastic Beasts” is a prequel that isn’t based on a published story, Jude Law had to draw from his own talents to portray a younger Dumbledore. However, the few pieces of information concerning young Dumbledore in the books are still often dissimilar from Law’s depiction. Because of this, Richard Harris takes this round.

Richard Harris 1/ Michael Gambon 0/ Jude Law 0

Round 2: Better Films

The first two “Harry Potter” movies are arguably boosted by nostalgia. The feel-good tone reminds many of their childhood. However, the films didn’t make as much of a critical impact as a unit. While Richard Harris and his castmates were praised, the movies didn’t take bold risks in depicting life at Hogwarts. Harris’s Dumbledore is one of its brighter spots. But because the entries largely play it safe, he doesn’t get to fully dive into the books’ difficult moments.

“The Prisoner of Azkaban” and “Deathly Hallows - Part 2” received universal acclaim, perfectly portraying the “Harry Potter” universe. Michael Gambon is part of both of them. The other films similarly received a solid reception, with Gambon’s performance in later sequels highlighted. These entries reflect Harry’s hero’s journey, each with a unique aesthetic. There’s a gradual progression from the youth-friendly tone to mature avenues, due to which Dumbledore evolves as well.

The “Fantastic Beasts” films are a notch below the “Harry Potter” ones. While Jude Law’s Dumbledore is well-liked, the movies suffer from an identity crisis, going from a simple magical creatures-based adventure to the Wizarding War. You get the feeling that Dumbledore deserved better than a supporting spot here. With more consistency and quality pacing in later “Harry Potter” films, Gambon gets the point in this round.

Richard Harris 1/ Michael Gambon 1/ Jude Law 0

Round 3: Emotionality

Since Dumbledore and Harry don’t interact as much in the first two films, Harris’s emotional moments are limited. However, he makes the most of them. He’s able to empathize with Harry’s loneliness and need for love, adding a wave of wholesome sentiment in these scenes. His portrayal carries a calming influence that removes the tension, making Dumbledore come across as a well-meaning grandfatherly figure.

For the most part, Michael Gambon’s version is detached, irritable, and a big contrast to Harris. This Dumbledore is a bit too intense, even prone to outbursts. Book Dumbledore rarely loses his cool, but Gambon’s version is mostly on edge. We all remember his over-the-top reaction after Harry is named a Triwizard Champion. [“Harry! Did you put your name in the Goblet of Fire!”] He finally reaches a slower tempo in “The Half-Blood Prince,” although it’s perhaps too late to fully change our perception of him by then.

Jude Law’s take is the most relatable. This Dumbledore is the easiest to open up to, and wants to listen to your problems. The younger Albus doesn’t conceal his emotions, choosing to feel the pain of losing his loved ones instead. There’s a definite trace of melancholy whenever he speaks, as he carries the weight of his past on his shoulders. Watching the powerful wizard be so human is a welcome sight, as viewers can finally see Dumbledore as a person rather than a legendary wizard.

Richard Harris 1/ Michael Gambon 1/ Jude Law 1

Round 4: Chemistry with the Cast

Richard Harris’s scenes are mainly with Harry and the Hogwarts staff. Yet whether they’re having a lighthearted moment or engaging in heavy discussion, he and his scene partners are always captivating. The interactions he does have with other characters are equally watchable, so it’s a shame that Harris didn’t get to act as much with the rest of the cast.

Michael Gambon might be a touch dominant, but the cast hangs well with him. Many of his scenes involve relaying important information, and his co-stars share his momentum without going off-track. While his initial interactions with Harry are one-sided, they eventually grow into their teacher-student dynamic. Gambon arguably has the best physicality for Dumbledore’s action-oriented moments, complementing Ralph Fiennes’ Voldemort in their epic battle.

Jude Law’s Dumbledore has a solid chemistry with Newt Scamander. They interact as equals, but Law also carries himself as a leader should. Because of this, Dumbledore and his team’s stand against Grindelwald are as adrenaline-pumping as intended. His intensity is adjusted according to the requirements of any given moment’s tone, which his co-stars portray just as effectively. With that in mind, this round ends in a tie.

Richard Harris 2/ Michael Gambon 2/ Jude Law 2

Round 5: Better Debut

Richard Harris kick-started it all, as Dumbledore is the first character seen on screen in the “Harry Potter” series. He introduces the magic and mystique of the franchise, and Hogwarts truly comes alive when Harry sees Dumbledore. The latter feels like a safe place for the protagonist and viewers, as he provides the care and support Harry craves from an adult figure. Harris’s tender approach to the character in “The Philosopher’s Stone” makes the headmaster a symbol of goodness in the Wizarding World.

Michael Gambon’s portrayal is such a departure from Harris’s amiable persona that Dumbledore does a complete 180 in “The Prisoner of Azkaban.” Scenes where his soothing presence is needed instead often feel amped with tension. Gambon also turns up some of the character’s wackiness, which causes a tonal disconnect with his own performance. [“Did what? Goodnight”] It would have made sense for an original character. But compared to Harris, it feels more “un-Dumbledore” than anything else.

Dumbledore’s arrival in the “Fantastic Beasts” series connects it with the “Harry Potter” films. Still, the character is awkwardly placed since he isn’t initially as directly involved in Newt’s adventure. We get a few snippets of his earlier days at Hogwarts and his overall plan is shrouded in uncertainty. His debut leaves a lot more to be desired and it isn’t until his subsequent appearances that he’s in full form. Since Harris does the best job at introducing Dumbledore, he gets the point here.

Richard Harris 3/ Michael Gambon 2/ Jude Law 2

Round 6: Magical Mystery
Dumbledore largely takes a backseat to the action in earlier entries. As such, Richard Harris didn’t really get to showcase his skills with the wand. His Dumbledore is limited to momentary displays of magic, which don’t exactly take the breath away. Unfortunately, the actor passed away before we could see him in full swing.

Michael Gambon embodies the fear factor Dumbledore commands when in attack mode. His duel with Voldemort is still awe-inspiring to watch. Gambon is a sheer force with the wand, making it appear like a legitimate weapon in his hands. It never feels as if there are any special effects when he displays the character’s aptitude for magic. Whether dueling or performing any other spell, Gambon’s Dumbledore lights up the screen each time.

Much like Gambon, Jude Law also has a certain finesse with his magical control. His duels with Credence and Grindelwald are among the most entertaining scenes in the “Fantastic Beasts” series. Law’s Dumbledore also performs smaller charms and enchantments that depict his sensitive side. However, because of his smaller film count, he doesn’t have the numbers that Gambon does. And so, it’s Michael Gambon who steals the round.

Richard Harris 3/ Michael Gambon 3/ Jude Law 2


Round 7: Better Dialogue/Wisdom
Richard Harris’s Dumbledore fits the “Wise Old Master” trope down to a T. The character serves as Harry’s guiding light in the Wizarding World. Plus, his quotes about not letting dreams hold us back and valuing friendship remain evergreen, applying to the real world. It’s also Harris’s voice we hear when thinking of the power of love, as Dumbledore relays this vital piece of knowledge to Harry.

For all the high energy that Gambon exhibits, he still has time to dole out some wise words. His speech in “The Prisoner of Azkaban” notably rings true beyond the screen, teaching viewers the value of happiness. The actor doesn’t always embody Dumbledore accurately, yet he exceeds expectations the times that he does. The fandom continues to appreciate the impact of his best-known quotes, but it takes a while before he delivers such moments.

Staying true to his emotional nature, Jude Law’s Dumbledore has much advice to impart. His dynamic with Newt revolves around empathizing with the other’s problems. Although his dialogue is in character, he reflects more with sadness and regret than wisdom. The younger Dumbledore doesn’t have all the answers like his older counterparts.

Richard Harris 4/ Michael Gambon 3/ Jude Law 2

Richard Harris broke through with a memorable first impression, simultaneously establishing Dumbledore as a wise and likable character while delivering an overall well-rounded performance. Decades later, he still flawlessly appeals to our nostalgia. And so it’s Richard Harris’s Dumbledore who claims the victory.

Which actor will always be YOUR Dumbledore? Let us know in the comments.