Tom Felton Talks Filming with Jason Isaacs as the Malfoy Family for "Deathly Hallows"

Actor Tom Felton has given a new interview where he discusses the upcoming Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Noting he has not yet begun filming his role as Draco Malfoy for the final two installments in the Harry Potter series, Tom said: "I can't wait for the next one, it's very exciting. I've been up to where the film is shot a couple of times and it's ready to go. I haven't started yet so can't give anything away!"

He also goes on to say how much he is looking forward again to working with actor Jason Isaacs, who memorably portrays Death Eater Lucius Malfoy and the father of Draco. Tom Felton is complimentary of the work Jason does on set, stating: "Lucius is an evil son of a gun and Jason is very good at turning that on when he's talking to you normally, it's scary." He continued

"I haven't seen him for a couple of years but he's a great guy and he is a bit of a dad. I look up to him a lot when we're filming, he's a good role model to have on the set to follow in his footsteps."

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Tom Felton, Jason Isaacs Attend Empire Awards

Actors Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) and Jason Isaacs (Lucius Malfoy) are attending the Empire Awards which are being held tonight in London. You can see early photos of the them at this event via this link to our Image galleries.

Update: Helena Bonham Carter is also attending tonight (more below) with photos of her starting here. Also be sure to follow along with the live blog as they announce the winners here.

Update One: Jason Isaacs presented the award for Best Director. He said:

Jason Isaacs: I just said to my wife, "I hope I don't have to follow Russell Crowe." I want to say a few words about Great Ormond Street - but first i want to say something about Empire, because they're written by and for people who love film, not like us who sometimes love film and sometimes just do it for the paycheque. But in this time of credit crunch Empire has decided to give something back to charity and support Great Ormond Street, which does fantastic work for sick children. So please give some money.

I'll tell you something about directors; there's always one on set, I think it's a union thing. They get the best headphones normally. They always arrive late and leave first. On location, they get first pick of the actors to have sex with, and judging by my director friends they're always moaning. If it wasn't for them, there'd be a lot more money to go around.

Update Two: Congratulations go to Helena Bonham Carter (Bellatrix) who was named Best Actress for her role in Sweeney Todd. Upon winning, Ms. Carter said: Thanks so much. This is a real compliment, I'm very chuffed. I did work actually incredibly hard for that role, but I loved every bit of it, and it was so many dreams come true. I always wanted to be in a musical, to sing, to be in something by Steven Sondheim and I always wanted a baby girl. I actually got all that, thanks to Tim Burton. And I know he always wanted to be Best Actress, so this is as much his as mine. Thank you!

More when we get it, stay tuned!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Flyers for Harry Potter, the Exhibition Now Arriving

Flyers have been appearing over the past week for the upcoming Harry Potter, the Exhibition that is set to take place at The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Illinois this spring. Thanks to our own Abbey, we now have for you a number of images of this new flyer available here, here, and here in our Image Galleries. The flyers sport the extended dates for the Exhibition as well as feature further details about the event.

As readers will remember, the Harry Potter, the Exhibition, which is a traveling display of costumes, sets, and props showcasing the craftsmanship from the Harry Potter films, opens on April 30th and runs through September 27th of this year. Tickets for the event at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Illinois are available, and can be purchased via this link.

If you spot any other Exhibition flyers, posters, or any other advertisements you may see in your area, please do email pictures of them to staff@the-leaky-cauldron.org.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Harry Potter Book Notes: Illegal Copies of Half-Blood Prince on Scribd, More

Several pieces of news tonight relating to the Harry Potter novels by J.K. Rowling. The Times is reporting that free copies of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince were available on Scribd.com, a literary website where thousands of books and manuscripts are available for download online, often times without the consent or permission of the author. The Times spoke with legal representatives for JKR, and the paper reports "Neil Blair, J. K. Rowling’s lawyer at the Christopher Little literary agency, said that Scribd did not have permission “and what you have identified are infringing listings which we were aware of and actioning." While the site is quite often used for legitimate purposes, the paper also notes:

Mindful of copyright concerns, Tammy Nam, a spokeswoman for the San Francisco Scribd, says that it operates a “notice and takedown system”, where it removes books if their publishers demand it. She said: “If we get a request we usually respond in 24 hours.” This makes the site compliant with the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act, which means that the site is not held liable for actions of its users of which it is not aware.

Critics say that this is not enough, because authors and publishers are not always aware that people are uploading books illegally." Other works from authors such as Ken Follett, John Grisham and Nick Hornby were also available seemingly without permission, with one publisher now investing the matter.

On a related book front, books that are made available quite legitimately in public libraries in Ireland are proving to be a source of financial windfall for many authors. In a separate article, The Times also reports that because of "Public Lending Remuneration scheme (PLR), introduced at the start of this year, authors who register and who live in the European Economic Area are entitled to a payment each time their works are borrowed." The paper then states those who are slated to receive a financial reward "when their books are loaned from public libraries include payments for such bestselling international writers as J K Rowling and Francesca Simon of Horrid Henry fame...There is expected to be a cap on payments at €8,000 a year while the minimum payment may be set at €2. The Library Council has about €1m to cover payments and administration." Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was the fourth most popular book borrowed from the libraries in question.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Which Wand Would You Choose?

Does the wand choose the wizard, or would you witches and wizards rather choose a wand replica used by a hero or villain? These are questions Universal Orlando is asking in the latest poll now online via the Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park website, here.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

A Horcrux in the New Half-Blood Prince Posters

Spoiler Alert! Spoiler Alert! If you have not read Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, you might want to skip this story as it gives a hint of an important plot in the story of the last two Potter books and movies. Spoiler Alert! Spoiler Alert!

Portkey is announcing today that a harry potter fan discovered something interesting after studying the new released HBP character posters. If you watch with attention Draco's poster, you can see on the left side the lost diadem of Rowena Ravenclaw. Check it out here.

(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)

WB Adds Wallpapers, Buddy Icons to Half-Blood Prince Website

Warner Bros has now added a few Wallpapers and two Buddy Icons to the official Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince film website, as seen in their new downloads section.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Rhys Ifans to Play Xenophilius Lovegood in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Tonight, scores of readers let us know that actor Rhys Ifans announced on the Friday Night with Jonathan Ross program broadcast this evening on the BBC that he would be appearing in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. While Mr. Ifans did not state which role he would be portraying, TLC can report that Rhys Ifans will be taking on the part of Xenophilius Lovegood, Luna's eccentric father and publisher of the Quibbler magazine. A rather fitting photo of Mr. Ifans as an elaborately garbed person can be seen here. During his appearance, TLC reader Neil writes that Rhys Ifans said the "HP wardrobe people flew out to Spain to fit him for his robes while on the set of Mr Nice," a film which is now in post production. Rhys Ifans has appeared in many films, notably Notting Hill, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, and the soon to be released The Boat that Rocked. Update: You can now see additional photos of Rhys Ifans here in our Image Galleries. Also thanks to ComingSoon.net we can see video of his announcement via YouTube.

On a related note, UHP emailed us to let us know they spoke with agents for actress Clemence Poesy about her possible return to the part of Fleur in Deathly Hallows, however the negotiations are ongoing, and nothing is certain yet. We are working to learn more on this and will update when we can.

Please note: As with all the others, WB has not yet officially confirmed any of these casting reports, and we continue to await a formal release on these, however TLC believes the casting of Mr. Ifans as Xeno to be correct.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Harry Potter Among All-Time Coolest Pop Culture Heroes from Entertainment Weekly

Entertainment Weekly has released a new list which ranks their Twenty All-Time Coolest Heroes in Pop Culture. Among the list of Pop Culture Heroes is none other than The Boy Who Lived, Harry Potter, who is ranked in fourth place. The young wizard joins the ranks of such other heroes as Dirty Harry, Captain James T. Kirk, Spider-Man, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Indiana Jones, and James Bond. Entertainment Weekly writes the following of the character of Mr. Potter:

4. HARRY POTTER

WHY HIM: Orphaned, cast out, and in the throes of adolescent hormonal revolt, J.K. Rowling's boy wizard (played by Daniel Radcliffe on screen) is the embodiment of the corny bumper sticker: Why be normal?

MOST HEROIC MOVE: Obliterating Voldemort by deploying his secret weapons: love, loyalty, and the good ol' Expelliarmus.

BIGGEST WEAKNESS: Misses his mommy and daddy.

You can view the complete list of Pop Culture Heroes via this link.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

New Trailer for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Video Game

Well this is our lucky day, for Yahoo Games has now released a fantastic new trailer for the Video game of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, which you can see via this link. Enjoy!

Update: Thanks to our hard working crew, we now have the trailer here in our video galleries for download. Screencaps are up now, starting here in our image galleries.

The HBP video game from EA is due to be released shortly before the film this summer in July.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Six New Character Posters for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Check it out! WB has released six new character posters for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince as seen here via MSN:

Harry Potter (Dan Radcliffe)

Professor Dumbledore (Sir Michael Gambon)

Hermione Granger (Emma Watson)

Ron Weasley ..is our king (Rupert Grint)

Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton)

Severus Snape (Alan Rickman)

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Filming for Shell Cottage Scenes of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows to Start in May

There is more today on location filming that will take place on the coastline of Wales for the upcoming Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Previously we told you a location in South Pembrokeshire had been selected to be the site of the emotion Shell Cottage scenes.Today, Wales Online reports this filming will take place shortly after Easter, with crews due to be in the Freshwater West coastline section of Wales for some 50 days to do construction. According to the piece, "a set will be built in Pembroke Dock and moved to a site in the dunes." Main filming for the scenes would take place over six days, and "was planned for early May." 

Anyone who is in the area, please send in your photos and reports!

Full quotage as follows:

A report looking into bringing the film crew to the area was presented to the National Park’s development management committee last week. Members welcomed the potential benefits the films could bring to the area.

The report stated: “There are obvious spin-offs, both in the immediate input into the economy and raising the profile of the area, which may encourage others to visit.” Planning officer Cathy Milner said: “It’s a huge bonus for Pembrokeshire. There’s the input of the finance, and it will also raise the county’s profile.” Ms Milner said Freshwater West had captured the film makers’ imagination and six days’ filming was planned for early May.The Harry Potter crew is expected to be in the area for 50 days. A set will be built in Pembroke Dock and moved to a site in the dunes.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Harry Potter Movies Being Filmed at Leavesden and Pinewood Studios

There is a new article online today regarding studios and the filming of the final Harry Potter movies. The Telegraph reports that legendary UK film studio Pinewood Shepperton "pushed full-year profits on by 12pc to £5.9m pre-tax in 2008, benefiting from the filming of Slumdog Millionaire, Mamma Mia! and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."

As readers will long recall, the bulk of filming on the Harry Potter films has taken place atLeavesden Studios. Only recently we at TLC first brought you these photos of a set under construction for the Deathly Hallows films at Pinewood. Today, the Telegraph article confirms that some filming for the final installment in the Harry Potter series will be done at Pinewood as well. Quotage: 

Films scheduled at Pinewood Studios this year include the next installment of Harry Potter,Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1. The company warned that film revenues in 2009 will be strongly weighted to the second half.

As a reminder, you can also see photos of the now permanent sets used for the Harry Potter films at Leavesden, such as Hagrid's Hut, the Burrow, Privet drive and more in our galleries.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Product Watch: 2010 "World of Harry Potter" Calendars, NECA Hogwarts House Mugs, More

Product news today, with a few quick updates regarding new Harry Potter merchandise. First, the new Harry Potter calendars for 2010 are available for pre-order, with the theme not to be single movie based, but rather will be based on "The World"  of Harry Potter. These calendars will be released on July 1, 2009. 

Also NECA, holders of the North American Harry Potter license, have updated their website with a few new items available here in the States, including these "Stackable House Crest Mugs," and Dumbledore's Army Stackable Mugs." Also now on the site are items previously reported such as the Hogwarts House Cup Challenge Board Game, "Forbidden Forest Decorative Throw Pillow," Action figure Dioramas for Snape and the Trio, and the Half-Blood Prince series 1 featuring Malfoy, Ginny, Madeye and casual dressed Harry that we've reported on several times previously. We will update once these become available in our Shop.

Finally, thanks to Gentle Giant who let us know theyve updated their site with a newGreyback mini bust, release date later this summer in August. Be sure to check out theirentire Harry Potter collection which includes a Kreacher mini bust due out in June and OotPSirius Black mini bust due out in May of this year.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Tom Felton Talks Potter Actor Jam Sessions, and Wizard Rockers Draco and the Malfoys

Actor Tom Felton recently gave a new interview to Feltbeats.com, where the Draco Malfoy actor discussed his love of music, jamming on the set with fellow Harry Potter actors, and even a bit on Wizard Rockers Draco and the Malfoys. 

While it isn't quite the Weird Sisters at work on set, Tom Felton first discussed his long love of music, and time spent with fellow cast members playing music on the set. Quotage from the interview:

TF:As far as jamming on the set with people, I know James Phelps is a big guitar man. I think he's more into his electric, shredding up the e-string and that sort of thing. He was always working, though, as well, so we never actually got a chance. One of the young chaps, Freddie Stroma (Cormac) - we had a little jam once on one of the nicer days outside. He brought his guitar and I had mine. And some of the crew members as well.

FB: Were you wearing your school uniforms while you were playing?
TF: Yes, I think so. It was a really sunny day the day we played so I remember being really hot in my uniform outside!

FB: And doesn't Matt Lewis play?
TF: And Matt Lewis, yeah! I didn't realize he jammed on the strings! He sent me a message the other day. He said, "Loved the new song; I really want the chords." And I didn't realize he played the guitar. That's cool, that's cool. We've got another jammer on the list.

FB: Yeah, you guys should have, like, a Harry Potter Reunion Tour.
TF: Yeah, that's it. We should have a band, shouldn't we? Brilliant.

Talk then turned to the wildly popular Wizard Rock, where Tom Felton described learning of the fan based rock music recently while here in Florida, where he spoke on the phone to members of Draco and the Malfoys (Brad and Brian). In what is surely a cool thing, Tom described this encounter as follows:

TF: Well, you know, when I was in America, I was brought aware of this thing called wizard rock. Are you aware of such a thing?

FB: Oh, yeah, definitely!
TF: Oh my god, I had no idea that people were actually making a living out of singing about, you know, Harry Potter! It's craaazy, man! I find that so fun!

FB: Have you heard any of the songs, then?
TF: The funny thing is, we met a lady once who actually sung in one of the bands. And she got some of her friends on the phone. I think it was a band called 'Draco and the Malfoys'?

FB: Yeah, yeah!
TF: Yeah, it's quite random! And I spoke to them, and was like, "Hello, nice to meet you." I won't lie, I thought it was a novelty thing; I didn't realize it had this huge following! And they actually have gigs and stuff! I was like, "Wow!" I mean, 'Draco and the Malfoys' actually toured Europe! It's incredible.

FB: And have you heard their song "Tom Felton's Kinda Hot"?
TF: Well, I think I heard about that... Aren't there guys in that band?

FB: Yes, but it is from Draco's perspective, see? All the songs in wizard rock are from the perspective of the character the group is named after. So this song is about how Draco thinks you're a good actor to play him in the movies.
TF: Well, there you go. How bizarre! How bizarre. Wow, well, that gives me more insight!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

New Stills from Half-Blood Prince Video Game

The Game Developers Conference is underway this week in San Francisco, California, and many previews of upcoming games are being released. IGN has a brief interview with a producer from EA regarding the upcoming Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince game, which is due out July 15th. While the interview has scant new information about the game, there are new stills which you can see here. Of the Wii platform of the game, the EA producer notes:

We started from a very solid foundation in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix with a highly authentic Hogwarts and really focused on bringing more action and excitement to drive forward the narrative. This experience is enhanced with specific improvements such as full camera control, different times of day at Hogwarts, and improved navigational elements such as a player's ability to call up Nearly Headless Nick at any time to guide them through the various missions. 

As a reminder, the soundtrack to the game from James Hannigan was released last week, and as we noted previously is available via our Cauldron Shop or on iTunes.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

It's officially spring, the weather is starting to improve (somewhat) here in the US, and so this editors thoughts turn to...Jason Isaacs ;)  As such, I gladly herald the news that Jason has been nominated as Best Actor for his role in the UK program "The Curse of Steptoe"today by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. Also nominated was UK audio book narrator (and twitter blogger extraordinaire) Stephen Fry in the "Entertainment Performance" for his work hosting the QI quiz show program on the BBC. Finally the popular series "Doctor Who" which stars David Tennant (Barty Crouch, Jr.) has been nominated in the best "Drama Series" category.  The BAFTA Television Awards will be presented on Sunday, April 26th in London England. Congratulations Jason and Stephen!

On a related note, actor Jason Isaacs will be the guest on the Friday Night with Jonathan Ross program on Friday, April 3rd. He is mentioned as "Harry Potter actor," but we do not know if he will discuss his return appearance as Lucius Malfoy in Deathly Hallows or what the topics of discussion will involve. Anyone who can capture video of the show which airs in the UK on BBC One at 10:35pm, please send it in.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Deathly Hallows Casting News: Ciaran Hinds to Play Aberforth Dumbledore, More on Nick Moran

We have some more big casting news today regarding Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. TLC can report that Ciaran Hinds has been cast in the role of Aberforth Dumbledore in the final installments of the Harry Potter film series. While not yet officially confirmed with WB, we believe this to be correct. Speaking with reps for the actor, we were told expectations and hopes certainly are that Ciaran Hinds will be taking on the role of helpful Order of the Phoenix member in the final Harry Potter films. You can see photos of Ciaran Hinds here,here and here.

A widely acclaimed actor, Ciaran Hinds has appeared in such films as Munich, There Will be Blood, Road to Perdition, Persuasion, Hallam Foe, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day, and most recently voiced a part in the film The Tale of Despereaux with Emma Watson (Hermione) and Robbie Coltrane (Hagrid). Well known to TV audiences for his appearance in the hit HBO series, Rome, Ciaran Hinds once starred in a film called The Cook The Thief His Wife & Her Lover, which also co-starred Michael Gambon, who of course portrays Albus Dumbledore, the brother of Aberforth. Please note: For those who have asked, actor Jim McManus appeared in as the "Barman" at the Hogshead in OotP, where the character of Aberforth works. As WB does not normally comment on rumors such as this casting and others, we continue to wait for a formal release confirming and addressing all the casting for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. More when we get it!

Finally, TLC has also learned that it is believed Nick Moran will be playing the part of Scabior, one of the Snatchers who works with Greyback in the events at Malfoy Manor.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Timothy Spall To Film Scenes as Wormtail for Deathly Hallows Later this Year

In January of 2008, we reported that actor Timothy Spall would be reprising his role as the nefarious Peter Pettigrew in the final Harry Potter films. Today, in a new interview regarding his most recent film The Damned United, mention is made again of Mr. Spall and his return appearance as Wormtail in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The Wrexham Chronicle reports that: "He will be back on the big screen as Peter Pettigrew in Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince this summer and is due to start work on the final films later this year."

On a related note, you can see Mr Spall featured quite a bit in the trailer for The Damned United here via Youtube.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince will be released in a few months on July 17, 2009. Production is currently underway in England for both parts to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Ron and Hermione Make BBC Radio One Top Movie Couples List

Update: Thanks to the many readers who let us know that an actual list of Top Five Movie Couples released on BBC Radio One by host James King making mention of Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson) should read as follows:

5. Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney in "Out of Sight"
4. Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in "Harry Potter"
3. Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in "Pretty Woman"
2. Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford in "Star Wars"
1. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt in "Mr and Mrs Smith"

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

John Hurt Talks More on Return as Mr. Ollivander for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

In May of last year we first told you that actor John Hurt had discussed his possible return as Mr. Ollivander to the Harry Potter film series. Tonight, there is more from the actor regarding his portrayal of the mysterious wand maker in the final Harry Potter films. In a new interview with This is Derbyshire, John Hurt says of his return: "I'm in negotiations at the minute because Ollivander comes back into the books," he says. "My son was 12 when it all first started and he was thrilled at the time that I was in it. And all things being equal I will be back."

Filming began last month on the two parts of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, with Part One due in November 2010, and Part Two to be released July, 2011.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Product Watch: New Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince T-Shirt at Hottopic, Game Soundtrack Available

Attention shoppers: Hottopic now has a brand new Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince t-shirt available. This shirt, available here, features the photo of Dan Radcliffe in his role Harry Potter, as seen on the posters which were released last month.

On a related note, as we first told you several weeks ago, the soundtrack to the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince VIDEO GAME would soon be available. That score by James Hannigan is now available for download only here via our Cauldron Shop, as are the soundtracks to all the previous Harry Potter video games from EA.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

The Tale of Despereaux DVD Arrives April 7th

The Tale of Despereaux, the animated movie featuring voice work of Emma Watson (Hermione Granger) and Robbie Coltrane (Hagrid), will arrive on DVD next month on April 7th here in the US. Pre-orders for the DVD of the popular film are now available here via our Cauldron Shop.

On a related note, Emma Watson also made a brief update to her blog yesterday on her official site. Although there was little in the way of news about her work on the last of Harry Potter films, she did note it was "great to be back" on the set, and has been doing publicity events on the weekends as part of the release of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

'Potter' Props start to Arrive in Chicago for 'Harry Potter: The Exhibition'

To add to our previous news post, Warner Bros. let us know today that the first of many props for the Harry Potter Exhibition has arrived in Chicago.

The "Flying Ford Anglia" as seen in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets has arrived for display at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago – the first of more than 200 costumes, artifacts and props that will arrive at the museum for the world premiere of Harry Potter: The Exhibition .

Ford Anglia Facts:

The Ford Anglia was enchanted by its owner, Arthur Weasley, to give it the ability to fly and become invisible. At the start of their second year, Harry Potter™ and Ron Weasley™ miss the Hogwarts™ Express and use the car to fly to Hogwarts™. Just as they arrive at the school, the Anglia begins to break down and crashes into the flailing branches of the Whomping Willow™. Later that year, the magical car heroically saves Harry and Ron from giant spiders in the Forbidden Forest.

(SOURCE: HPANA)

Emma Watson Updates Official Website with News

Emma Watson has added a new journal entry to her website today, talking about filming Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and more.

"Sorry it has been so long...I'm back at the studios on Harry Potter, I can't believe it's the seventh film already! It has been such a long time since I've seen everyone, and it is great to be back.

Keeping very busy though, lots of publicity at the weekends getting ready for HP6 which is all good. Also very excited that its getting sunny and warmer, it has been such a long winter!

I went to my very first football (soccer) match at the weekend which was so cool, I feel like a true Brit now!

Hope you're all well and thanks for your ongoing support.

Lots of love Emma x"

You can read the note on Emma's website.

(SOURCE: HPANA)

New Nick Magazine High Res Photos of Dan Radcliffe as Harry Potter

Earlier this week, TLC first told you about the new ads and photos from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince contained in the April Edition of Nick Magazine. Tonight, Warner Bros sent us over lovely high res editions of two of these photos featuring actor Dan Radcliffe as Harry Potter, which you can see here and here in our image galleries.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Toby Jones Says Role as Dobby for Both Deathly Hallows Films

Last January, we told you that actor Toby Jones would reprise his role in the Harry Potter films series by again providing the voice of Dobby the House Elf for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Today, the actor made mention of his return to the series by noting: "I’m currently doing the new Harry Potter film; in fact, the last two Harry Potter films."

Please note: As readers will recall, there has been much ado and speculation over the possible splitting of the films, with the events involving the beloved House Elf at Malfoy Manor and Shell Cottage often discussed. While most certainly we do not yet know where the breaking point in the films will take place, or what all this may mean, it is interesting to note the mention of his return for both movies. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows films is currently in production in England, with Part One set for release November 19, 2010, and Part Two due July 15, 2011.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

New Promo Images from 'Half-Blood Prince'

Some new promo images from the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince movie cropped up online over the weekend. The images feature Tom Riddle, Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Draco Malfoy and Luna Lovegood.

You can view the images here and here courtesy of Oculmencia via SnitchSeeker.

Also the April issue of Nick Magazine magazine has a new article on the movie.

(SOURCE: HPANA)

New Trio Photos, Ad for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

The new April issue of Nick Magazine contains a feature on Warner Bros Movies. In the feature are a solo photo of Harry (large size here), as well as an ad for HBP (note large scan) which shows the previously released photo of a solo Harry Potter with Dumbledore reflected in his glasses, and bears the tagline "Once Again I Must Ask Too Much of You, Harry".

There are also photos of the Trio, which are likely to be their main promotional photos, as these are mini posters of each actor in their Hogwarts robes: Dan Radcliffe as Harry Potter, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Emma Watson as Hermione Granger. A large size scan of the trio can be seen here. This issue of Nick Magazine should be on newsstands next week.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

More on Casting of Dung Fletcher and Bill Weasley for Deathly Hallows

A followup today regarding our two previous reports of possible casting for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Good News: As TLC first reported a few days ago, actor Andy Linden (photo here) has indeed been cast in the role of dodgy Order of the Phoenix member Mundungus Fletcher, according to his agents who confirmed this directly to TLC.

 Broadway World.com is also now reporting that Domhnall Gleeson "is expected to sign on for the final installment of the big screen’s blockbuster Harry Potter series, The Deathly Hallows." As we noted previously, the son of Brendan Gleeson (Mad-Eye Moody), Domhnall (photo here) will take on the role of Bill Weasley. Filming is currently underway for both parts of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in London, England.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

J.K. Rowling's The Tales of Beedle the Bard on Shortlist for British Book Award

The Tales of Beedle the Bard written by Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling have been nominated this year at the Galaxy British Book Awards.  Beedle the Bard is on the shortlist for "Children's Book of the Year," along with a few others including: Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer,  Captain Underpants & the Preposterous Plight by Dav Pilkey, Artemis Foul & The Time Paradox by Eoin Colfer, Horrid Henry Robs the Bank by Francesca Simon,Dinosaurs Love Underpants by Claire Freedman & Ben Cort.

Also actress Julie Walters, who portrays Molly Weasley in the Harry Potter films, has been shortlisted in the Biography of the Year category for her book, That's Another Story.  Actress Dawn French (the Fat Lady in PoA) was also nominated in the same category, for her autobiography Dear Fatty. 

Finally, UK audio book narrator Stephen Fry has been nominated in the Popular Non-Fiction category for his book, Stephen Fry in America. 

Voting is now open to all online via this link, and will run until Saturday, March 28th.
The winners of the Galaxy British Book Awards will be announced Sunday, April 5, 2009 in London, England.  Congratulations to all!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Followup: First Editon Copy of Harry Potter and Sorcerer's Stone Sells at Record Price

A quick followup this morning regarding this story from last month involving an auction of a rare First Edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Scores of you owled to let us know the auction was completed, with the book selling for a record $19,120. The AP reportsthat "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" was one of only 200 copies from the first printing issued with illustrated wrappers by London publisher Bloomsbury. The 1997 work about the boy wizard was published in the United States as "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" and includes an illustrated card signed by author J. K. Rowling.  The winning bidder was" a vintage comic book collector from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates whose wife is a Harry Potter fan."

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Theme Park Update: More on Hagrid's Hut Construction

There are new photos online today of the ongoing construction at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park attraction at Universal Orlando, Florida. Thanks to this blogger, we can now see new photos of a newly completed exterior of Hagrid's Hut, as well as the ongoing building of the mammoth Hogwarts Castle. 

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Theme park is due to open next year.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Entire Track Listing, Music Now Online for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Video Game

As a follow to the article below, the entire track listing, and music previews are now available for the video game soundtrack of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Composed by James Hannigan, this game soundtrack for HBP will be available next week on March 17, 2009. NOTE: Spoiler caution, however for those who can not wait, click here to see the listings and preview the music. Enjoy!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

First Photo of Dan Radcliffe Filming for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

The first photo of actor Dan Radcliffe filming for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is now available. UK tabloid The Mirror is running a photo (in print only at the moment) of Dan as Harry Potter, with the article noting "the mist thickens around wand-wielding Daniel Radcliffe in a forest scene." Thanks to Snitchseeker, we can now see a scan of the photo, here. 

Filming began last month on the two parts for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, with Part One due in theaters November, 2010 and Part Two in July, 2011.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Dung Gone It! More Rumblings on Deathly Hallows Casting for a Smelly, Sneaky Thief

Dung gone it, we have more rumors today regarding a possible casting for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Word has it that the part of dodgy Order of the Phoenix member Mundungus Fletcher (who is,in the words of Snape, a 'smelly sneak thief') will be portrayed in the Deathly Hallows films possibly by character actor Andy Linden. A photo of the actor can be seen here, and here, with footage of Mr. Linden at the premiere of his recent filmThe Secret of Moonacre, here. Andy Linden also had a small role in the film "State of Play," which was directed by David Yates, who is of course helming both the Deathly Hallows films. As readers will recall, Mundungus Fletcher has a pivotal role in the events leading to the Seven Potter scene early on in the final Harry Potter novel.  Please note, as with the other casting rumor of late, we are awaiting official confirmation,and thus we continue to urge caution and keep this in the rumor category for now. More when we get it!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Rupert Grint Talks Deathly Hallows Epilogue and Script (Spoiler Alert!)

The new issue of Total Film has a one page interview with actor Rupert Grint, where he briefly discussed his role as Ron Weasley in the upcoming Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. The interview was conducted shortly before filming began last month, and Rupert noted he only had the Part One script to Deathly Hallows ("so far, it's looking really cool".) Rupert also went on to discuss the epilogue to the final Harry Potter novel by J.K. Rowling, and said he was surprised at the outcome of the trio. Quotage:

"I really liked it, it was a good ending. It was not what I expected, actually. For some reason, I thought at least one of me, Dan, Emma was going to not make it. But I think it's going to be cool, the whole 20 years later thing. It should be fun. They'll age us up."

You can see a scan of the article here.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Rumblings on Possible Casting for Bill Weasley for Deathly Hallows and More

We have some interesting rumblings today regarding possible castings for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Rumors have reached our ears that Domhnall Gleeson, the son of actor Brendan Gleeson (Mad-Eye Moody) will be portraying Bill Weasley in the final Harry Potter films. You can see a photo of Domhnall here. Domhnall Gleeson is an upcoming actor, known in the theater world having received a Tony nomination in 2006 for his work in The Lieutenant of Inishmore.  Also word is that the role of Mundungus Fletcher has also been cast, but there is no actor's name available as of yet.

Please note: As fans will recall, we had heard from actress Clemence Poesy last year that her character of Fleur was not to be in Half-Blood Prince, but remained uncertain if she was to be back for Deathly Hallows. We do not know if the rumor of a possible casting of Bill Weasely indicates the wedding scene may be in or simply just Shell cottage, or what all of this may mean, thus, we do caution to please treat this very much as a rumor for now. As always, we are working to find out more on this, and will update with more when we can, stay tuned!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

WB Releases New Half-Blood Prince Trailer

In this trailer released by WB, Dumbledore narrates the story of Tom Riddle. We see glimpses of the inferi, more orphanage footage, the gates of Hogwarts as Harry and Luna travel up to them, Harry under his invisibility cloak on the train, Dumbledore grabbing a chain from the cave, a close shot of Narcissa, Draco working on the wardrobe, explosions in Diagon Alley and fire at the Burrow, Harry battling off the Inferi, Fenrir Greyback, Harry shouting at Snape, the bridge collapsing, and another "Once again, I must ask too much of you, Harry."

We will continue to update this page with more info so stay tuned!

LEAKY VIDEO GALLERIES (brought to you by the coolest video team on the planet)

WINDOWS HD
High
Medium
Low

WINDOWS STANDARD
Large
Medium
Small

FLASH
480 px
640 px

QUICKTIME HD
High
Low

QUICKTIME STANDARD
Large
Medium
Small
Low

IPOD
iPod

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

ABC Family to Broadcast Harry Potter Weekend this Month

ABC Family will be broadcasting another one of those "Harry Potter Weekend" events this month. In the past, the cable channel has included new previews of the upcoming Harry Potter films during the course of the telecasts (as witnessed last December), however at this time we do not know if there will be new Half-Blood Prince previews due to show this month.

Starting next weekend, the first showing will be of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone on Friday, March 6 at 7:30pm (ET). Saturday, March 7th will see a mini-marathon starting with Sorcerer's Stone repeated at 12:30 pm, followed by Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets at 4:00pm, and completed with Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban at 8:00pm. Finally, Sunday, March 8th, ABC Family will broadcast another mini-marathon, this starting with Chamber of Secrets at 12:30pm, followed by Prisoner of Azkaban at 4:30pm, with Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire to be shown at 7:30pm (ET).

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)