News

It's not an exaggeration to say that there are so many wizarding families found within the narrative of "Harry Potter" — though some are obviously more prominent than the others. Thanks to the specific focus on Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) and his friends, we know a lot about the Weasleys, the Malfoys (because Tom Felton's Draco Malfoy is Harry's nemesis at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry), and the Blacks, among others. But what about the Dumbledores?

We first meet Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts, during Harry's first year at the wizarding school; in the massively popular film franchise, the legendary British actor Richard Harris played the role in the first two movies ("Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" and "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets") before he passed away in 2002. After that, Michael Gambon took over as Dumbledore and completed the franchise as the powerful wizard,...

Ralph Fiennes’ take on You-Know-Who was nothing short of spellbinding from the moment he rose out of that creepy cauldron in the Goblet of Fire graveyard. That entrance? Pure dark magic.

He didn’t just play Voldemort—he became the Dark Lord, sending chills down our spines faster than a Dementor on patrol. Suddenly, the rest of the films felt ten times darker and infinitely more exciting. Fiennes, with his mix of parodically English charm and effortlessly European flair, is like the wizarding world’s answer to classical music—no borders, just brilliance.

Beyond all things British, he’s shapeshifted into Austrians, Russians, Balkans, and even Americans—both buttoned-up WASPs and full-blown psychos. Oh, and let’s not forget Snake. Yes, Snake.

How Ralph Fiennes became the blueprint for Voldemort’s chilling power Ralph Fiennes as Voldemort and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Harry Potter and The Goblet of...

Here’s What Went Behind The Naming Of Harry Potter’s Most Annoying Character (Photo Credit – Instagram/Facebook)

Long before Harry Potter became a billion-dollar juggernaut, J.K. Rowling was just another writer wandering around Edinburgh, trying to finish a story about a boy wizard. The tale we know today actually started on a delayed train ride from Manchester to London. That’s where the seed for Harry Potter first popped into her head.

Fast forward a few years, and Rowling was knee-deep in plot lines. She had spent five years laying out the entire series. Yes, five years of brainstorming before a single book hit the shelves. She wrote much of her first draft sitting in local cafés around Edinburgh, typing away while sipping coffee.

But it wasn’t just the caffeine that helped. Edinburgh itself was a quiet co-writer. In an old interview, J.K. Rowling mentioned how the city slipped into her books.

Parents often say they’d do anything for their children. Would they help them hide a body? What if the situation spirals out of control and the truth threatens to bubble to the surface? Would they remain the dutiful parent or start to see the problem for what (or who) it truly is? Today, Apple TV+ is debuting a trailer for Echo Valley, a chilling thriller directed by Michael Pearce, starring Sydney Sweeney, Julianne Moore, and Fiona Shaw.

In Echo Valley, Moore plays Kate Garrett, a woman recovering from a personal tragedy while boarding and training horses at Echo Valley Farm, twenty-two remote, Bob Ross painting-worthy acres in Southeastern Pennsylvania. In the middle of the night, Kate’s recalcitrant daughter, Claire (Sweeney), is covered in blood at her doorstep beside herself. As an unexpected guest shatters Kate’s quiet recovery, things quickly spiral out of control.

Scott Free’s Ridley Scott produces Echo Valley,...

One former Harry Potter actor shares advice for the person who will take over their role in the TV series. The Harry Potter movies began in 2001, starting with the release of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. The series came to become a multi-billion dollar entity, becoming one of the most successful film series of all time. In the years following the movies' completion, HBO announced the development of a Harry Potter TV series. The show will feature an entirely new cast, allowing for fresh portrayals of its characters.

Per People, Harry Potter alum Bonnie Wright offers advice to whoever will play the next Ginny. Wright sees the show's creation as a great chance for exciting reinterpretations of the characters that give them "new life." She hopes that the new Ginny actor will "do what they wanna do and make their character who they envision Ginny to be." Her main...

Is "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." canon to the Marvel Cinematic Universe? It was sold as such. It starred a revived Agent Phil Coulson (Clark Gregg), who had been an unexpected breakout character from "Iron Man" up through "The Avengers."

The first season was the most authentically connected. The series' "Marvel X-Files" approach got shattered by "Captain America: The Winter Soldier," which saw S.H.I.E.L.D. infiltrated and destroyed by Hydra. So, the show pivoted to its heroes going underground. The first season even managed to get Samuel L. Jackson to cameo as Nick Fury twice. But as "Agents of S.H.I.E.Ld." went on for ultimately seven seasons, the crossovers which Marvel fans had expected never came.

Coulson never reunited with the Avengers onscreen. "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." was never a priority for Marvel Studios because the show wasn't even produced by it. Rather, the series was backed by ABC Studios,...

Okay, I’m gonna say it loud and proud: I’m a Gryffindor through and through. Pottermore confirms it, my red-and-gold scarf confirms it, and my unnecessarily aggressive loyalty to Hogwarts confirms it. But even as someone who worships and obsesses over the Great Hall where Dumbledore walks in, I’ve gotta spill the tea: our favorite bearded icon was kinda messy.

Like, for someone who was known as the most powerful and greatest wizard of all time, our Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore had chaotic energy. And while we let a lot slide in the name of “the greater good,” there’s one scene that still gives me the ick. I’m talking red-flag-level behavior. It’s been 24 years, and no, I haven’t healed from the events of Sorcerer’s Stone.

Dumbledore’s worst scene in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

Let’s get one thing straight...

10 Harry Potter Celebrity Cameos!(Photo Credit –Prime Video)

The ever-blockbuster Harry Potter franchise gave birth to not only a vivid world of wizards but also propelled the iconic trio of Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint to fame and success. But beyond these three central characters, the Harry Potter films also hosted a spellbinding ensemble of future stars and established careers, many of whom went largely unnoticed in their blink-and-you’ll-miss-it roles.

Let’s revisit some surprising names who appeared in the franchise long before their big breaks. From major movie stars to music legends and fan-favorite TV personalities, these celebrities briefly walked the hallowed halls of Hogwarts (or at least stood somewhere nearby).

1. Regé-Jean Page – Wedding Guest

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Regé-Jean Page (@regejean)

Long before Regé-Jean Page swooned hearts as the Duke of Hastings in Bridgerton, he briefly appeared in Harry...

When Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone made its big-screen debut in 2001, fans across the world were mesmerized by the filmic portrayal of the Wizarding World. The flying brooms, twirling wands, levitating objects, and friendly spirits had every viewer completely enchanted. Yet, one significant element was particularly condensed: the Sorting Ceremony.

It’s a well-known fact that movies seldom encompass everything the world of books can give us. In the Hp books, the Sorting Ceremony has been narrated with immense detail, featuring the Sorting Hat’s signature song and the sorting of each first-year student, giving readers insight into the distinct personalities at Hogwarts. However, the film had substantially abbreviated the ceremony, completely missing the Hat’s song and the sorting of several students.

This move resulted in a lack of depth that the traditional ceremony originally embodied. It might have been the right decision for pacing, but it left...

Years in the making, HBO’s planned Harry Potter series adaptation is closer than ever to coming to the small screen.

First revealed as a possibility in early 2021, the upcoming television show is expected to last for several years, with each season adapting one of the six Harry Potter novels written by J.K. Rowling.

“The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail, much-loved characters, and dramatic locations that Harry Potter fans have loved for over twenty-five years,” Warner Bros. Discovery said in a press release in 2023. “Each season will be authentic to the original books and bring Harry Potter and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic, and beloved films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

In a statement released at the time, Rowling seemed pleased with the concept.

Hollywood stars who lost out on iconic roles ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

You know, like when you’re locked into one film and miss out on that other golden opportunity. It’s not always about a bad decision, sometimes it’s just about timing.

Honestly, picture it, you’re all set to play the hero, but a pesky scheduling conflict with a previous project keeps you from donning that cape. And while other actors swoop in and become legends, you’re left wondering what could’ve been. These stars found themselves trapped in other roles, missing out on iconic gigs that could’ve changed their careers. What could’ve happened if they’d had a free schedule?

Let’s dive into the stars who almost played some of Hollywood’s most unforgettable characters!

Trending The Godfather: Why Vito Corleone’s Death Is Still The Most Powerful Moment In The Franchise...

The new Netflix original movie has an eye-popping cast, and looks like a can’t-miss feature for mystery lovers.

Netflix is gearing up to release what might be the ultimate whodunnit. Its adaptation of “The Thursday Murder Club” is coming to the streamer later this year, and it’s got an eyebrow-raising cast that even the most lukewarm fans of the mystery genre will be intrigued by. We’ll let you know all the details that are available about the film, so read on!

Everything you need to know about ‘The Thursday Murder Club’

When will ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ come out?

Will ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ be released in theaters?

Is ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ based on a book?

Check out preview photos from ‘The Thursday Murder Club’

What is ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ about?

Who stars in ‘The Thursday Murder Club’?

Who directed ‘The Thursday Murder Club’

Will...

The magical world of Harry Potter continues to be overshadowed by a very real conflict as The Last of Us star Pedro Pascal has now entered the arena, publicly blasting J.K. Rowling over her controversial transgender statements.

Pascal’s recent outburst, in which he called Rowling’s behavior “awful disgusting Shit” and “heinous Loser behavior,” is just the latest episode in a saga that’s been brewing since 2020. What started as a few controversial tweets has snowballed into a full-blown cultural war that has left the once-united Potter fandom deeply divided.

With former cast members taking sides and a new HBO series on the horizon, the controversy shows no signs of disappearing with a wave of a wand. Let’s dive into the cauldron of controversy and break down exactly how we got here and why Pascal’s comments are causing such a stir.

The beginning of Rowling’s controversial...

Celia Imrie, Sir Ben Kingsley, Helen Mirren, and Pierce Brosnan in ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ (Photo © 2024 Netflix)

Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan star as the heads of an illegal drug empire in MobLand. In Netflix’s The Thursday Murder Club, they reunite to star as retirees who spend their free time solving murders. Sir Ben Kingsley and Celia Imrie fill out the quartet of amateur sleuths.

The film, based on Richard Osman’s bestselling book, also stars Naomi Ackie, Daniel Mays, Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Tom Ellis, and Jonathan Pryce. Rounding out the ensemble are David Tennant, Paul Freeman, Geoff Bell, Richard E. Grant, and Ingrid Oliver.

“The Thursday Murder Club follows four irrepressible retirees—Elizabeth (Mirren), Ron (Brosnan), Ibrahim (Kingsley), and Joyce (Imrie)—who spend their time solving cold case murders for fun. When an unexplained death occurs on their own doorstep, their casual sleuthing takes a thrilling turn as they...

Hollywood has a reputation for chewing up child stars and spitting them out—just ask Emma Watson. After years of being chased by paparazzi and growing up under the intense spotlight of Harry Potter, Watson eventually bowed out of the industry. Surprisingly, she wasn’t alone, several other child stars followed the same route—some even opened up about the atrocities they faced on set.

But then came Jenna Ortega—our new Gen-z Scream queen and Wednesday icon. And guess what? I was scared that she might burn out or leave the spotlight too, just like Emma Watson did. However, two of her comments calmed my nerves—they assured me that this girl wasn’t going anywhere.

Jenna Ortega’s mother shielded her from on-set misconduct

After the Investigative Discovery series, Quiet on Set aired in March 2024, and Drake Bell later opened up during podcasts and interviews about the alleged abuse,...

Retirement homes are supposed to be for, well, retirement. But rest, relaxation, and bridge tournaments aren’t in the cards for one set of seniors. This group of unlikely sleuths has uncovered a murder case, and they’re willing to risk their lives to solve it. They’re The Thursday Murder Club, and they’re coming to Netflix in a new movie out on Netflix on Aug. 28. Based on the bestselling novel by Richard Osman, this is a whodunit with teeth — false ones, of course.

Read on for a more thorough investigation of the new Netflix-Amblin co-production, directed by Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone filmmaker Chris Columbus and with a screenplay by Katy Brand and Suzanne Heathcote, and flip through the star-studded first-look images of The Thursday Murder Club below.

By the way, Columbus tells Netflix, “This is the finest cast I've worked with since Potter. They’re just so incredibly well-prepared,...

“Accio calendar”, because J.K. Rowling seems to need it. That’s right—the author who mastered spells, potions, and magical beasts—apparently messed up when it came to dates, throughout the Harry Potter franchise. From Tuesdays that were actually Saturdays to birthdays landing on the wrong day of the week, the books featured major timeline blunders that even Professor McGonagall would side-eye.

It’s almost like J.K. Rowling used a Marauder’s Map instead of a Time-Turner. Perhaps, she didn’t expect her books to turn into a pop culture phenomenon that would lead Potterheads to grab their calendars faster than Hermione grabs a library book. So, let’s hop on the Hogwarts Express and explore the delightfully messy calendar chaos of the Wizarding World!

J.K. Rowling kicked off the Harry Potter franchise with a mistake

Before Harry even got his Hogwarts letter, J.K. Rowling had already dropped a time-turner-level blunder.

John Lithgow is taking on the role of Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming “Harry Potter” television series, a casting choice that has sparked mixed reactions among fans. Speaking on BBC’s The One Show, Lithgow acknowledged the skepticism from some viewers but said he’s approaching the part with enthusiasm and care.

“I will be following the great Michael Gambon. I’m not an Englishman, although I’ve played one on television,” he said. “I remind everyone that I did play Winston Churchill and did just fine.”

Lithgow’s selection for the role comes as Max develops a new adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s books, described as a more detailed interpretation of the original text. The project is being led by writer and showrunner Francesca Gardiner.

The veteran American actor joins a cast that includes Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid,...

You can’t choose your family, but you can choose your friends. Well, unless you’re Emma Watson, and your childhood friends just happen to be your on-screen soulmates. On April 15th, the Paris-born actress celebrated her 35th birthday, but it feels like just yesterday she was casting spells and correcting Ron’s pronunciation of “Leviosa.”

From Dragon School drama classes to conquering the wizarding world, Watson grew up right before our eyes—wand in hand, emotions on sleeve. But while battling trolls and dark lords came naturally, kissing her redheaded bestie? Not so much.

Harry Potter: The awkward magic behind Emma Watson’s most unforgettable kiss Emma Watson as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter franchise | Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

As Hermione Granger, Emma Watson fought trolls, cast spells, and stole the hearts of millions — but nothing, and we mean nothing, could prepare her for the magical awkwardness of...

If Harry Potter fans can suspend their disbelief to allow for invisibility cloaks, flying cars and time-traveling pocket watches, John Lithgow hopes they can get around his casting.

Following the the 2x Oscar nominee’s casting as Albus Dumbledore, he admitted he’s “very excited” and “very intimidated” by the role from the J.K. Rowling book series, which was previously portrayed on-screen by Richard Harris, Michael Gambon and Jude Law.

“I will be following the great Michael Gambon. I’m not an Englishman, although I’ve played one on TV,” he said on BBC’s The One Show. “I remind everyone that I did play Winston Churchill on The Crown and did just fine.”

Lithgow added, “But yes, I mean, it’s an enormous thrill. But I know there were plenty of people appalled that an American should be hired to play the ultimate English wizard. But, I will do my best.

The single most elusive Hollywood entertainment commodity is a sure thing; a title that somehow generates an absolute certainty of success. Some say this doesn’t exist (Warner Bros., after all, was probably extremely confident when it greenlit Joker 2). Yet there is an upcoming TV show that is arguably a sure thing, or the closest we’ll likely ever see to one — Warner Bros. Discovery’s biggest IP bet, HBO’s Harry Potter, which earlier this week announced its core adult cast. Yet there are also three big hurdles that observers have wondered about, which we’ll get to shortly.

Harry Potter will reimagine J.K. Rowling’s seven fantasy novels, which have sold more than 600 million copies worldwide, and its eight movie adaptations have cumulatively grossed $7 billion-plus. Each season will cover one of the seven books, with Succession writer Francesca Gardiner as showrunner and Game of Thrones veteran Mark Mylod directing several episodes.

Harry Potter Box Office Magic (Photo Credit – Prime Video)

The Harry Potter franchise has always had magic running through its veins, and we’re not just talking about wands and spells. From the very first film, Sorcerer’s Stone, the wizarding world proved to be a box office juggernaut, pulling in fans faster than a Quidditch match draws a crowd. Each installment kept the momentum alive, with midnight premieres, long theater lines, and global hype that could rival any blockbuster.

But while all eight films were financially successful, only one of them soared high enough to land among the most elite earners in box office history. The others, though beloved and immensely profitable, didn’t quite crack that ultra-exclusive list. Still, the franchise’s overall haul is staggering and remains a gold standard for fantasy sagas everywhere.

What’s even wilder? The one movie that did break into the all-time...

The upcoming Harry Potter TV reboot has officially found its Hagrid. Actor Nick Frost, best known for roles in Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, has been confirmed to play the beloved half-giant groundskeeper in HBO’s new version of the magical story.

The reboot will bring J.K. Rowling’s famous books to the small screen, following the original Harry Potter films that ran from 2001 to 2011. While fans have been buzzing about casting rumors for months, the news of Frost taking on the role of Hagrid is now official.

Frost recently shared a touching message on Instagram after the news broke. Alongside a photo of himself holding a copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, he used one of Hagrid’s most famous lines to express his excitement: “You’re a wizard, Harry!!!”

He also showed his appreciation for the chance to play such a meaningful character, writing:...

Harry Potter star cast fees (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Accio bank accounts! The Harry Potter trio didn’t just defeat dark wizards they also conjured up some seriously magical paychecks along the way. Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint started as adorable newcomers in The Sorcerer’s Stone and ended up global icons by the time Deathly Hallows – Part 2 rolled credits. With Warner Bros. raking over $9.5 billion from the franchise, it’s only natural to wonder how much gold landed in their Gringotts vaults.

From school robes to red carpets, the Harry Potter trio’s salaries skyrocketed with each film, reflecting their growing stardom (and the box office boom). Though they’re not exactly rushing back for The Cursed Child, the trio did reunite for the nostalgic 20th anniversary special, and yes, the glow-up was real.

Whether it’s Radcliffe’s indie glow-up, Watson’s feminist fairy tale roles, or Grint’s horror-tv fame,...

All Harry Potter Movies Ranked By Box Office Collection ( Photo Credit – Prime Video )

When it comes to legendary movie franchises, Harry Potter is up there, casting spells at the box office from day one. Kicking off in 2001 with The Sorcerer’s Stone (or Philosopher’s Stone if you’re fancy and British), the series grew into an eight-film phenomenon that shaped a generation, created a billion-dollar empire, and probably inspired a few owl purchases.

While the main saga wrapped in 2011 with The Deathly Hallows Part 2, aka the one that broke hearts and records, it didn’t end there. We got Fantastic Beasts, stage plays, video games, theme park rides, and endless debates over which Hogwarts house rules. Despite J.K. Rowling’s recent controversy clouding the fandom, the films still hold a nostalgic glow for millions who grew up alongside The Boy Who Lived, the girl who knew it all, and...

The magical world of Harry Potter isn’t just famous for its spells, broomsticks, and talking portraits. What made this fantasy world truly come alive were the three stars who stepped into the shoes of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint weren’t just characters in a story — they became household names, with millions of fans growing up alongside them.

But while we were busy learning spells like Accio and cheering for Gryffindor, these three young stars were racking up some serious cash as their fame skyrocketed.

The Harry Potter franchise, based on J.K. Rowling’s bestselling books, didn’t just give us unforgettable stories — it also built a fortune for its young leads. As the movies rolled out one by one, the trio’s paychecks grew, showing their growing stardom and the franchise’s insane success. Curious about just how much these wizards-in-training made?...

Thirteen years after “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” released in theaters and brought an end to Harry’s journey on the big screen, the Harry Potter universe is gearing up for a return in the form of episodic television.

Led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod of “Succession,” HBO’s take on the beloved book-turned-movie-franchise aims to bring the magical world back to life as Harry Potter discovers he’s a wizard and leaves his muggle family behind to attend Hogwarts, a school of magic. Along the way, he befriends Ron and Hermione and becomes a significant part of a plot against Lord Voldemort, or as most call him, “He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.”

The show comes nearly 30 years after J.K. Rowling published “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” which was adapted into a film directed by Chris Columbus in 2001. In total, the original “Harry Potter” film series has...

The Harry PotterHBO series is moving ahead quickly and a whole batch of actors were announced for the project today. Among them is Nick Frost, the British star of Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, who will be playing Hagrid.

Frost is clearly thrilled to have won the role of the half-giant Hagrid, Harry Potter's first friend when he enters the Wizarding World. He took to Instagram and made a post where he held up the front cover of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, a cover that prominently features Hagrid.

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Nick Frost (@friedgold)

"You’re a wizard, Harry!!!" he wrote, quoting one of Hagrid's most famous lines from Jk Rowling's saga. "Thank you for trusting me with such a loyal, gentle and courageous half-giant like Rubeus Hagrid. Robbie, I promise I won’t let you down." The Robbie he's shouting out is Robbie Coltrane,...

Revelio!

HBO has finally announced the adult cast of its Harry Potter TV series.

After months of media rumors and reports of various castings — all previously unconfirmed by HBO — the company broke its silence on the matter to announce six actors for the core adult roles of its adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s beloved novels.

As expected, Emmy winner John Lithgow (Conclave) will take on the critical role of Hogwarts’ wise and warm Headmaster Albus Dumbledore.

Oscar nominee Janet McTeer (Ozark) will take on the role of stern Transfiguration Professor Minerva McGonagall.

And as first reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Paapa Essiedu (Black Mirror) will take on the role of the sneering Potions Professor Severus Snape.

Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead) will play the lumbering Hogwarts gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid.

All four will serve as series regulars in the show.

In addition, stage actor Luke Thallon will play Defense Against...

Accio Harry Potter marathon!

Although USA and Syfy come in real handy around the holidays when they put on their Harry Potter movie marathons, the films are also streaming online year-round

And while the “Harry Potter” franchise came to a close in 2011 with the release of the final film, the movies continue to be a “feel-good” favorite while the Wizarding World story continues on in the ongoing “Fantastic Beasts” franchise, with the third film having hit theaters in April.

So where are the Harry Potter movies streaming right now? The answer changes quite frequently, actually, as the streaming rights to the Warner Bros. franchise are in the midst of being shared between a couple of different services.

Below we’ve rounded up which “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” movies are streaming where with the most up-to-date information.

Streaming on Max Jude Law in “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” (Warner Bros.

Creating the magical world of "Harry Potter" was a massive undertaking when the film franchise kicked off in 2001 with the very first movie, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" (or, if you don't live in the United States, "Philosopher's Stone"). Warner Bros. and the creative team behind the movies were tasked with bringing Harry's journey at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to life — and his entire discovery of the magical world in general — and overall, they did a pretty great job! With young actors Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson in the lead roles as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger, all of whom were flanked by incredible British actors like the late Alan Rickman and Dame Maggie Smith, and picked up cameras in the United Kingdom to create these magical movies.

So, where did they film specifically? A whole variety of places, frankly — which is normally the case with fantasy movies,...

Quick LinksMcGonagall Protected Harry Against SnapeMcGonagall Defended Harry Against UmbridgeHarry Was Recommended For The Quidditch Team By McGonagallShe Encouraged Harry To Stand Up To BulliesShe Defend Harry Against Snape's Insistence Of ExpulsionMcGonagall Reassured Harry About Trelawney's Death PredictionsShe Secretly Bought Harry The Nimbus 2000McGonagall Was Hesitant To Leave Harry With The DursleysMcGonagall Cleverly Kept Harry Safe By Denying A Hogsmeade VisitShe Checked Harry's Firebolt For Curses

Harry Potter is one of the most tragic characters in his own franchise. The poor lad has experienced the deaths of several loved ones throughout the fantasy series, including his own parents. Lily and James Potter were brutally murdered at the hands of Lord Voldemort, leaving Harry an orphan child. Living with the Dursleys at Privet Drive is a miserable experience for Harry, and Hogwarts offers him a place he can call home. Still, one of the major factors behind Harry's undying love for Hogwarts is Professor McGonagall.

Adam Sandler's 2015 sci-fi comedy movie Pixels will soon have a new streaming home. It will be available on Netflix starting April 11.

Pixels was directed by legendary filmmaker Chris Columbus. Sandler stars as Sam Brenner, a former arcade video game champion who unites with other players to save the world from an alien attack. When the aliens misinterpret video footage of classic video games as a declaration of war, they use the games as blueprints for their invasion, leading President Will Cooper (Kevin James) to recruit Sam to engage the aliens in an all-out battle where the fate of the planet is at stake.

Pixels was inspired by Patrick Jean's 2010 short film, and Jean served as an executive producer on the film. The story drew on the nostalgia factor of classic retro arcade games, with Pac-Man, Donkey Kong and Space Invaders being licensed for the film. Pixels was released...

Superfan Robin Williams seemed to have all the credentials to land a part in the Harry Potter series of film adaptations. As an actor, he’d mastered both comedy and drama, winning an Academy Award for his efforts. He was bankable, with several blockbusters under his belt. And he had an in on the first movie, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone — he was buddies with director Chris Columbus, with whom he’d made the hit comedies Mrs. Doubtfire and Bicentennial Man.

“There were a couple of parts I would have wanted to play,” the comedian once admitted. He pitched himself to play Hagrid in the original film, according to Far Out, a part that went to Robbie Coltrane. After missing out on that role, he tried again to land the character of Remus Lupin in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Fans of the series know that part was played by David Thewlis.

Amy Pascaland David Heymanhave officially signed deals to become the producers of the next James Bond movie. Amazon MGM have selected the producers due to their successful global box office record, as the franchise enters a new era in its history without the leadership of the Broccoli family. A new protagonist for the franchise hasn't been selected yet. Not much is known about the premise of the next James Bond film, but with Amazon MGM quickly hiring producers after obtaining the rights to the franchise, it's evident that the project is a high priority for the studio.

Amy Pascal has been working as a major film producer over the course of decades. The executive has been in charge of the Spider-Man franchise ever since Tom Hollandwas appointed as the face behind the hero's mask. Pascal has managed to turn the franchise into a major success, with Spider-Man: No Way Home...

I get it. Adaptations are hard. Turning a hit book into a movie is tricky, especially when the books in question — in this case, the "Harry Potter" series — are very, very long. The longest "Potter" book, "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," contains a whopping 870 pages in its US hardcover edition, so obviously not every single detail is bound to make it during the adaptation process. Still, the "Harry Potter" film franchise, which spanned eight movies, left a lot behind, and some of it is pretty important!

There are actually a whole bunch of "Harry Potter" plotlines and characters that didn't make it from the books to the movies, but here I'm going to try and note some of the most important ones.

As Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint), and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) learn magic at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, they meet a lot of people.

Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone Breaks Max Streaming Records In 2024 (Photo Credit – Prime Video)

Harry Potter’s magic refuses to fade even after all these years, whether you like it or not. Even though debates continue to swirl concerning its creator, the franchise itself remains a cultural powerhouse, captivating millions year after year.

Don’t believe me? Just check the cold, hard numbers. And if that’s not enough, a fresh report highlights just how deeply audiences still adore the wizarding world, with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone securing its place as one of the most-watched movies on Max in 2024.

Harry Potter Streaming Numbers Speak Volumes

According to Collider, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first installment of the iconic saga, clocking in over 40 million views on Max, enchanting nearly 20% of Warner Bros. Discovery’s subscriber base. These figures, pulled from Digital-i’s British streaming exports list,...

It's important to remember the ongoing controversial statements by the creator of the Harry Potter franchise. Cbr supports the hard work of industry professionals on properties fans know and love and the wider world of Harry Potter that fans have adopted as their own. You can find Cbr's continuing coverage on J.K. Rowling here.

While the early Harry Potterbooks are largely boarding-school mysteries, there are a lot of action scenes throughout. With the Second Wizarding War beginning at the end of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the series began to feature more fight scenes between Harry, his friends, and the Order of the Phoenix against the evil Lord Voldemort and his army of Death Eaters.

While the Harry Potter films did mostly a good job at adapting the seven books, including the fight scenes, there are several differences between the film's portrayal and what was described in the novels.

Popular! “Wicked” is already popular, having grossed nearly $740 million in worldwide box office. But as the film based on the hit Broadway musical premieres on Peacock this weekend, NBCUniversal’s marketing team has organized a corporate-wide campaign to make sure this “Wicked” window is as pop-you-lar as its theatrical run.

The arrival of “Wicked” on Peacock on Friday, March 21, is the culmination of what NBCU has dubbed “Wicked Week” to generate awareness of its availability on the streamer. On Peacock, that has included a “Wicked-fied” version of its logo, as well as character profile avatars and “affinity rails” that places “Wicked” inside specially tailored genres like “Unusually & Exceedingly Peculiar” and “Magical & Mystical Worlds”.

Also, a “mystery tile stunt” on Peacock last week featured images of Elphaba and Glinda holding hands, strategically placed between tiles for other TV shows and films.

Peacock has now launched a “Wicked” hub that features...

It's important to remember the ongoing controversial statements by the creator of the Harry Potter franchise. Cbr supports the hard work of industry professionals on properties fans know and love, and the wider world of Harry Potter that fans have adopted as their own. You can find Cbr's continuing coverage of Rowling here.

Warner Bros. is on a mission to revitalize the Harry Potter franchise through a TV adaptation. Rather than being limited by the relatively short timeframe of a movie, each book can be adapted into an entire season of television. It is a clever way to make up for some of the mistakes that the movies made.

Unfortunately, the movies certainly did make mistakes. The first release, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, first entered theaters in 2001. It was an excellent movie that continues to resonate with viewers today, but it was certainly not perfect. Some key issues...

Quick LinksWarner Bros. Rightfully Split Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Into Two FilmsHBO’s First Season of Harry Potter Will Be Eight Episodes LongHBO’s Harry Potter Series Must Set Itself Apart From the Films

It's important to remember the ongoing controversial statements by the creator of the Harry Potter franchise. Cbr supports the hard work of industry professionals on properties fans know and love and the wider world of Harry Potter that fans have adopted as their own. You can find Cbr's continuing coverage on J.K. Rowling here.

The eight Harry Potter films are a remarkable achievement in cinema few franchises come close to. From bringing the Wizarding World to life with iconic set design to the star-studded supporting cast of British actors, the films remain one of the strongest book adaptations of all-time. However, the films still had its shortcomings, in large part because of the medium it played in.

Max is bringing Harry Potter back with a new cast, fresh vision, and decade-long plan.

For me, reading the “Harry Potter” series as a kid kicked off my life-long love for books and storytelling. And when “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” came out in 2001, I was 12 — about the same age as Harry Potter himself when he goes to Hogwarts. And so, it feels like I literally grew up alongside these characters. These movies are magical in every sense of the word - getting darker as the kids grow older and masterfully building to an epic climax of good vs. evil. It’s hard to imagine our world without “Harry Potter.” Now, Max is bringing adventure to the small screen with a decade-long TV series that promises to take us deeper into the wizarding world than ever before. With a brand-new cast, fresh creative vision, and a massive budget to...

This may not come as a huge surprise, but it turns out that the "Harry Potter" movies are remarkably popular. To clarify, despite the fact that the first movie based on J.K. Rowling's best-selling books came out nearly 25 years ago, it remains a streaming juggernaut. To that end, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," aka "The Philosopher's Stone" outside of the U.S., was one of the most popular streaming titles in 2024.

According to numbers provided by Digital-i, (via Deadline), "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" was viewed over 40 million times on the Max streaming service last year. Though not widely regarded as the best "Harry Potter" movie by any means, being first clear counts for a lot. Digging deeper into the numbers, director Christopher Columbus' film reached nearly 20% of Warner Bros. Discovery's total subscriber base, which is pretty remarkable.

These numbers, more specifically, were provided by Digital-i's...

The Wizarding World fandom remains strong ahead of HBO's upcoming Harry Potter reboot. Digital-i's British streaming exports list for 2024 has just been revealed, with Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone appearing on the list with an impressive viewership milestone.

According to Deadline, the Harry Potter movie — known as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone in the United States — was watched more than 40 million times on Max last year. The first installment in the Warner Bros. film series reached nearly 20 percent of the streamer's subscribers in the measured territories, placing it eighth on the list. The Philosopher's Stone was the oldest movie to appear on the list, which measured viewings outside the UK to Netflix, Disney, Prime Video, and Max in the U.S., Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Australia, among other key territories. The only other movie to appear on the list that did not debut in 2024 was Saltburn, which...

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone remains a fan favorite worldwide, according to Digital-i’s British streaming exports list 2024. Despite being nearly 25 years old, the film continues to attract millions of viewers across different countries.

The first Harry Potter movie was one of only two older titles to make the list. The only other pre-2024 project included was Saltburn, which was released on Prime Video in late 2023 after its time in theaters.

The analysis shows that The Philosopher’s Stone was watched more than 40 million times on Max last year. It reached almost 20% of Max subscribers in key markets, making it the eighth most-watched title on the list. The movie performed especially well in Latin America, where it reached 26.6% of subscribers, ranking fifth. Another Harry Potter film, The Goblet of Fire, also made it into the top 10.

Related: Fans Voice Their Dissatisfaction Over Probable Snape Casting for HBO’s ‘Harry...

Exclusive: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone continues to cast a spell over fans around the world, according to Digital-i’s British streaming exports list 2024.

The first Harry Potter movie was one of only two projects launched before 2024 that made the inaugural list, which is measured via viewing outside the UK to Netflix, Disney, Prime Video and Max in the U.S., Japan, South Korea, Canada, Australia and key territories across Lat Am and Europe. Given that The Philosopher’s Stone premiered nearly 25 years ago, this is quite the feat. The only other project on the list launched prior to 2024 was Saltburn, which moved to Prime Video in late 2023 after a theatrical run.

The Harry Potter movie was watched more than 40 million times on Max last year and reached nearly 20% of the Wbd streamer’s subs in the measured territories, placing it eighth on the list, according to the analysis firm.

In the summer of 1997, United Kingdom readers perused through their local bookshops. The debut novel from author J.K. Rowling adorned shelves, with its cover artwork featuring a young boy with a peculiar lightning-shaped scar on his forehead and messy black hair, donning John Lennon-esque circular spectacles and a black cloak over a white dress shirt with a red and gold scarf around his neck, all while curiously anticipating the arrival of a train with the sign "Hogwarts Express" on the front. Two questions immediately come to mind: "Who is Harry Potter?" and "What is the Philosopher's Stone?"

Nearly 30 years later, it's safe to say that those U.K. readers fell in love with Harry Potter and the Wizarding World. Little did they know that Harry would become inarguably the most popular protagonist in children's literature of the 21st century, spawning seven books, 11 feature films, a play on the West End and Broadway,...

Does the first Harry Potter movie have 2 names? ( Photo Credit – Facebook )

Magic has many faces, and so does its most famous name. Across seven books, eight films, a spinoff series, and an upcoming TV adaptation, Harry Potter has become a global phenomenon. But for a story so universally recognized, its very first chapter arrived with an unexpected twist—two different titles in the English-speaking world.

The Philosopher’s Stone: A Title With Deep Roots

Jk Rowling’s debut novel, published in the UK in 1997, introduced readers to a boy who lived, a castle of wonders, and a stone with legendary powers. It was Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, a title deeply rooted in the lore of alchemy, where the mythical stone was said to transform metals into gold and grant eternal life.

To British readers, this connection was clear but to American publishers, however, it posed a dilemma.

Trending...

John Lithgow, the Hollywood legend who was recently cast as Albus Dumbledore in the TV reboot of the Harry Potter franchise, has teased his version of the beloved Hogwarts Headmaster and one of the most important characters of the Wizarding World. While many still disagree over the casting of the show (and just the show in general), the Harry Potter TV series is happening, and Lithgow's remarks are pretty exciting for those on board.

Per Variety, the actor, who is best known for shows like The Crown and 3rd Rock From the Sun and movies like Shrek and Interstellar, was featured in an episode of their series Know Their Lines, where celebrities answer questions about their careers. Lithgow spoke about many of his roles in films and television. Nevertheless, he also teased his role in the Harry Potter TV reboot, saying that due to the complexity and scope, it will...

Quick LinksHarry Potter Survived Voldemort Due to His Mother’s ProtectionVoldemort Also Made Harry Potter a Horcrux on AccidentHow Harry Potter Became the Master of Death

It's important to remember the ongoing controversial statements by the creator of the Harry Potter franchise. Cbr supports the hard work of industry professionals on properties fans know and love and the wider world of Harry Potter that fans have adopted as their own. You can find Cbr's continuing coverage on J.K. Rowling here.

The epic Harry Potter fantasy is full of major reveals throughout with plenty of seeds planted by J.K. Rowling leading up to them. Some foreshadowing happens earlier than others, and it's clear Rowling knew the broad strokes of where the story was going early on. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows featured the most shocking reveal as the final installment. These moments tied the entire series together and helped...