Which Harry Potter film was the first in the series to be directed by Alfonso Cuarón?

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban was the first Harry Potter film directed by Alfonso Cuarón.

Released in 2004, the third film follows Harry’s third year at Hogwarts and introduces the escaped prisoner Sirius Black, played by Gary Oldman. It also features Professor Remus Lupin, played by David Thewlis, and the magical creature Buckbeak.

Cuarón succeeded Chris Columbus, who directed the first two films. His entry is often noted for a darker visual style and a more atmospheric approach to the school, characters, and surrounding landscape. Cuarón directed only this one Harry Potter film.

Mike Newell directed the fourth film, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. David Yates later directed the final four films, so Cuarón’s contribution is limited to the third installment.