Dark Horizons has a short interview with Chris Columbus whose new movie RENT is out in theaters. DH asked Columbus if he would come back to direct another Harry Potter film. Here's his funny, but I'm sad to hear it, answer:
DH Question: Would you go back to Harry Potter again?
Columbus: I love the 5th book. I love that book, but I don't think I can get back. I can't move my entire circus of a family back to England. It would be too difficult.
You can read the rest of the interview here.
(SOURCE: DARK HORIZONS)
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
One Muggle Thinks J.K. is More Magical than Harry
"For me, the fascinating story is the story behind Harry Potter, that of author, J.K. Rowling. Her amazing tale seems more miraculous than any fantasy could be. She had never had a book published before, and now she's wealthier than the Queen of England."
Read the rest of Lloyd Garver's article here.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Read the rest of Lloyd Garver's article here.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Katie Leung on Publicity Trip through China
Warner Bros has organised a publicity trip for Scottish born Katie Leung who plays the role of Cho Chang, the love interest of Harry Potter. She told Chinese reporters she was excited about giving Harry Potter his first kiss in the next film, which is due to begin shooting in England next February.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Adult-escents Say Hoorah for Harry
In an essay, J.R.R. Tolkien dismissed the idea that children are the natural and most appropriate audience for tales of magic as an "error of sentiment". His words are worth reflecting on as adults flock to Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, which opens across Australia today.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Images from Xbox version of 'GoF' Game
New Hi-Res Images from Goblet of Fire
Radio Interview with J.K. Rowling
BBC Radio4 will broadcast a 30 minute interview with Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling titled "Living with Harry Potter" which will be aired on Saturday, December 10th at 9:00am(GMT). The website description of the program reads:
"In a rare recorded conversation, J K Rowling and Stephen Fry, the voice of the books on audio, discuss the process of bringing their creations to life on and off the page."
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
"In a rare recorded conversation, J K Rowling and Stephen Fry, the voice of the books on audio, discuss the process of bringing their creations to life on and off the page."
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
Goblet of Fire in TIME Magazine
Thanks to Melody for this scan from the December 5th edition of TIME Magazine. The scan compares the fourth book to the fourth movie, with the movie winning out.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Goblet's on Fire!
In its first five days of release in the Philippines, Goblet of Fire grossed P105 million (almost $2m), setting a number of box office records.
It also became the biggest ever opening weekend for a film in Italy after it collected €7.5 million (almost $9m), shattering Pinocchio's previous record of €7.035.
In China, the flick has earned 66.56 million yuan ($8m) in just ten days. Furthermore, a manager for a Chinese distributor of the film said he expects this figure to soar to 100 million yuan ($12m).
Finally, Goblet also became the highest ever opening weekend in Norway after it gathered a cool $2.3 million.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
It also became the biggest ever opening weekend for a film in Italy after it collected €7.5 million (almost $9m), shattering Pinocchio's previous record of €7.035.
In China, the flick has earned 66.56 million yuan ($8m) in just ten days. Furthermore, a manager for a Chinese distributor of the film said he expects this figure to soar to 100 million yuan ($12m).
Finally, Goblet also became the highest ever opening weekend in Norway after it gathered a cool $2.3 million.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Potter Star's Rant at Mobile User
Harry Potter actor Richard Griffiths, who plays Uncle Vernon, ordered a woman out of a play he was acting in after her mobile phone kept going off.
Richard was on stage at a London theatre when a member of the audience's mobile went off three separate times.
The star was so cross he stopped the play and asked her to leave.
He said: "Is that it or will it be ringing some more? Could the person whose mobile phone it is please leave?" Many people clapped after his outburst.
The incident happened during an afternoon performance of a play called Heroes, which the Potter star is in at the Wyndham Theatre.
The play got a standing ovation from the audience at the end.
Last year, another actor, Kevin Spacey, criticised audience members who let their phones go off in theatres, or who rustled sweet wrappers too loudly.
(SOURCE: CBBC NEWSROUND)
Richard was on stage at a London theatre when a member of the audience's mobile went off three separate times.
The star was so cross he stopped the play and asked her to leave.
He said: "Is that it or will it be ringing some more? Could the person whose mobile phone it is please leave?" Many people clapped after his outburst.
The incident happened during an afternoon performance of a play called Heroes, which the Potter star is in at the Wyndham Theatre.
The play got a standing ovation from the audience at the end.
Last year, another actor, Kevin Spacey, criticised audience members who let their phones go off in theatres, or who rustled sweet wrappers too loudly.
(SOURCE: CBBC NEWSROUND)
WB Films Drive Biggest IMAX Weekend Ever
The IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. are really happy these days. They've announced that Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and The Polar Express have made lots of money on the IMAX screens. Here's a piece of Coming Soon's article about the announcement:
IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures today announced that "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: The IMAX Experience" and "The Polar Express: An IMAX 3D Experience" registered the highest grossing weekend ever at IMAX® theatres, with combined grosses of $3.1 million, each on 66 screens over the three-day period from Friday, November 25 through Sunday, November 27. In its second weekend in IMAX theatres, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" grossed approximately $1.85 million on 66 screens -- even while sharing IMAX screens with the re-release of The Polar Express, which generated approximately $1.22 million in its opening weekend.
You can read the rest of the article here.
(SOURCE: COMING SOON)
IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures today announced that "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: The IMAX Experience" and "The Polar Express: An IMAX 3D Experience" registered the highest grossing weekend ever at IMAX® theatres, with combined grosses of $3.1 million, each on 66 screens over the three-day period from Friday, November 25 through Sunday, November 27. In its second weekend in IMAX theatres, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" grossed approximately $1.85 million on 66 screens -- even while sharing IMAX screens with the re-release of The Polar Express, which generated approximately $1.22 million in its opening weekend.
You can read the rest of the article here.
(SOURCE: COMING SOON)
Breathing Life Into Dragons
One challenge in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was to make a believable Horntail dragon that remained true to author J.K. Rowling's vivid description. For more than a year, a team of special-effects creators worked hard to design the flying, fire-breathing Horntail dragon that we now see on screen.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Potter Fans Conjure Up Relief for Earthquake Victims
A fundraising dinner was held at the University of North Carolina with hopes of raising money for the people affected by recent earthquakes in Pakistan and India on Monday night. Trivia games and other elements of the Harry Potter books and movies were designed to appeal to Harry Potter fans.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Stanislav Ianevski Proud to be Bulgarian
Stanislav Ianevski, the Bulgarian-born star of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, answered the questions of international media before the movie's premiere in Bulgaria, including his opinions on his home country, love, sports and more.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Holy Cow! New Statue at J.K.'s Place
A life-size plastic cow sitting astride Harry Potter's famous Nimbus broomstick has pride of place in the gardens of J.K. Rowling's house in Scotland. A spokeswoman for Jo said the cow was originally commissioned by Warner Brothers for a charity event.
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
(SOURCE: WIZARD NEWS)
Bewitched Adults Keep Potter's 'Fire' Blazing
Our Hogwarts mate Sylvia brought this USA Today article to our attention yesterday. Just as a refresher, the article talks about how a lot of adults are pushing the box office of Goblet of Fire into the stratosphere. Here's a piece of the story:
LOS ANGELES — Before Saturday, Adam Kirkpatrick had never seen a Harry Potter film, read a Harry Potter book, or held much desire to do either.
But the 44-year-old Santa Monica landscaper decided to check out Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire after growing tired of hearing his friends blather on about spells and Hogwarts and the evil Voldemort.
Now Kirkpatrick plans to hit the video store to catch the first three Potter installments.
"This wasn't the movie I expected," Kirkpatrick says. "I figured it was just a kids' series. But there's a lot of adult stuff here. I get what people are talking about."
So are a lot of older moviegoers, who are propelling Goblet to the Potter franchise's fastest start. (Related chart: See the weekend's top 10 films)
You can read the rest of the article here. Thanks again to our Hogwarts mate Sylvia for the heads up!
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
LOS ANGELES — Before Saturday, Adam Kirkpatrick had never seen a Harry Potter film, read a Harry Potter book, or held much desire to do either.
But the 44-year-old Santa Monica landscaper decided to check out Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire after growing tired of hearing his friends blather on about spells and Hogwarts and the evil Voldemort.
Now Kirkpatrick plans to hit the video store to catch the first three Potter installments.
"This wasn't the movie I expected," Kirkpatrick says. "I figured it was just a kids' series. But there's a lot of adult stuff here. I get what people are talking about."
So are a lot of older moviegoers, who are propelling Goblet to the Potter franchise's fastest start. (Related chart: See the weekend's top 10 films)
You can read the rest of the article here. Thanks again to our Hogwarts mate Sylvia for the heads up!
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
JKR Donates Signed Copy of HBP
Scotland's Daily Record reports that J.K. Rowling responded to 12-year-old Breeze Gardner's request by donating an autographed copy of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince to a charity auction.
" . . . [T]he book is expected to fetch more than £ 6000 when it is auctioned off next month."
Breeze had explained to JK how her wheelchair-bound mum Lesley, who suffers from ME, was raising cash for her local surgery in Strathblane, Stirlingshire.
Lesley, 48, is determined to repay the clinic where she is treated by helping buy a potentially life-saving ECG machine.
Thanks to Snitchseeker for passing this along.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
" . . . [T]he book is expected to fetch more than £ 6000 when it is auctioned off next month."
Breeze had explained to JK how her wheelchair-bound mum Lesley, who suffers from ME, was raising cash for her local surgery in Strathblane, Stirlingshire.
Lesley, 48, is determined to repay the clinic where she is treated by helping buy a potentially life-saving ECG machine.
Thanks to Snitchseeker for passing this along.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
New Pictures from EW Photo Shoot
Earlier this month Harry Potter graced the cover of Entertainment Weekly and we have some pictures from the photo shoot that never made the magazine. The new pictures feature Emma, Rupert and Daniel. Enjoy.
You can see the images courtesy of MuggleThai or here if you can't get on the site due to traffic.
Thanks to MuggleThai via Page for the tip.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
You can see the images courtesy of MuggleThai or here if you can't get on the site due to traffic.
Thanks to MuggleThai via Page for the tip.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
New Pic of Ron and Padma
UniversHarryPotter sent in this new pic of Ron and Padma from the French magazine "Gold." Thank you!
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
GoF World Box Office Totals: More than $400 Million
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is continuing to light up sales at the box office, earning an "estimated $408 million at the worldwide box office after its second weekend" reports Reuters. In North America, Goblet sold an estimated $59.4 million dollars worth of tickets over this past holiday weekend, starting the Friday after Thanksgiving. The current US total numbers are at a whopping $201.1 million alone, beating the records held by the previous first three Potter films.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
New Pics of the Phelps Twins in Japan
The Phelps twins and their sponsors have sent over some new pics of their time in Japan, this time from their visit to the Warner MyCal Theater and the Two Piece store in Fukushima. For more info on their tour, visit this page (with a translator):
In Two Piece, in kimono jackets
At Two Piece (2)
At Two Piece (3)
At Two Piece (4)
At Two Piece (5)
At the Warner theater (1)
At the Warner theater (2)
At the Warner theater (3)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
In Two Piece, in kimono jackets
At Two Piece (2)
At Two Piece (3)
At Two Piece (4)
At Two Piece (5)
At the Warner theater (1)
At the Warner theater (2)
At the Warner theater (3)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
Goblet Premiere Pics from NY, London, Japan
We've got a bunch of nice resolution pictures for you from all the recent Goblet premieres and events, including:
London pics starting on this page
Another pic of Emma
New York premiere
Emma Watson, Katie Leung, Robert Pattinson and Mike Newell at the Japan premiere and more in this album, including a pic of a gigantic Goblet poster, Arnold Schwarzenegger promoting the film in China, and Dan and Clemence in France.
Enjoy! There are more coming from the NY party and red carpet, taken by none other than my mom, who has an online store here that you can visit as a little thanks! :)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
London pics starting on this page
Another pic of Emma
New York premiere
Emma Watson, Katie Leung, Robert Pattinson and Mike Newell at the Japan premiere and more in this album, including a pic of a gigantic Goblet poster, Arnold Schwarzenegger promoting the film in China, and Dan and Clemence in France.
Enjoy! There are more coming from the NY party and red carpet, taken by none other than my mom, who has an online store here that you can visit as a little thanks! :)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
Happy Birthday, Bill Weasley!
J.K. Rowling's website has been updated to commemorate the birthday of our favorite banker. Happy Birthday, Bill (and we hope your recovery is going well)! Thanks to all who reminded us.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
Fourth Potter Film a Hit in New Zealand
GOF's success continues. The fourth film has shattered many records in New Zealand to become the country's fifth highest opening weekend ever. The movie falls in behind the Lord of the Rings Trilogy and Shrek 2. Thanks to Robyn for the tip.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Dan Radcliffe Mistaken for Elijah Wood in Australia
While the Harry Potter actor is filming December Boys down under, apparently he is constantly being confused with Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood. Dan said: "I admit when a couple of people have put autograph books under my nose I've signed them: 'Much love Elijah Wood.'"
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Rupert Explains His Absence from Tokyo Premiere
Previously we showed you some video and pictures from the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire press conference and premiere that took place in Tokyo this past weekend. A new video has appeared online in which a letter is read from Rupert Grint explaining his absence.
Rupert's letter translation:
I cannot go to Japan because my grandfather died recently, I'm really sorry. I am bearing the sorrow with my family in London. I really loved him and he was a real Harry Potter fan. So I was really glad that he was able to see the newest film before he died. I'm going to be filming Order of the Phoenix in February. I hope everyone likes Goblet of Fire. Please enjoy!
I hope this answers the many emails I have received asking why Rupert did not appear on any U.S. TV shows or why he was absent in Tokyo. Rupert, our thoughts & prayers are with you & your family during this difficult time.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
Rupert's letter translation:
I cannot go to Japan because my grandfather died recently, I'm really sorry. I am bearing the sorrow with my family in London. I really loved him and he was a real Harry Potter fan. So I was really glad that he was able to see the newest film before he died. I'm going to be filming Order of the Phoenix in February. I hope everyone likes Goblet of Fire. Please enjoy!
I hope this answers the many emails I have received asking why Rupert did not appear on any U.S. TV shows or why he was absent in Tokyo. Rupert, our thoughts & prayers are with you & your family during this difficult time.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
Monday, November 28, 2005
GoF Video Game Tops the Charts
The Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire video game is now available in stores, and although it got off to a bit of a slow start, the release of the fourth movie has propelled it to the number one spot in the UK. Also, thanks very much to UHP for sending over several new promotional pictures from the game, which can be seen at the galleries.The official website for the video game was updated this morning as well, and now you can earn all 100 points on the game certificate. Thanks, Shane!
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
Happy Birthday Alfonso!
Prisoner of Azkaban Director Alfonso Cuaron turns 44 today - happy birthday! And thank you for a truly fantastic third movie.
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Harry Dominates the Box Office Again
For the second week in a row, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was the uncontested leader at the box office, grossing a handsome $54.9 million in its second weekend, and surpassing the $200 million mark domestically. Walk the Line and Yours, Mine, and Ours were distant competitors, each earning less than $20 million.
We're keeping a running tally of the film's worldwide gross (currently $408 million) on the right-hand side of this page, just in case you lose count.
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
We're keeping a running tally of the film's worldwide gross (currently $408 million) on the right-hand side of this page, just in case you lose count.
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
Loads of New Behind-the-Scenes Footage
Malaysia's "Astro" Channel aired a fantastic special on Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire last night, and thanks to reader Lulu, we have a video (24 MB) of it. The twelve-minute video includes a plethora of new behind-the-scenes footage, along with quite a few new interviews with the main cast and others, such as Tom Felton (Draco) and Michael Gambon (Dumbledore).
Here's a few deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes bits to keep an eye out for as you watch:
- Harry: "If you can't protect me now, then who can?" (deleted; very Frodo-esque: 2:12)
- Priori Incantatem (BTS: 4:34)- Krum's dives and the Durmstrang ship in front of the green screen (deleted/BTS: 5:45)
- Mike Newell talking about Robert Pattinson (7:30)- The bone falling into the cauldron (deleted: 9:35)
- Newell rolling around on the floor with a Weasley twin (BTS: 10:26)
Thank you, Lulu! The TV station will be airing another GOF special tonight, which we hope to have a video of soon.
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
Here's a few deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes bits to keep an eye out for as you watch:
- Harry: "If you can't protect me now, then who can?" (deleted; very Frodo-esque: 2:12)
- Priori Incantatem (BTS: 4:34)- Krum's dives and the Durmstrang ship in front of the green screen (deleted/BTS: 5:45)
- Mike Newell talking about Robert Pattinson (7:30)- The bone falling into the cauldron (deleted: 9:35)
- Newell rolling around on the floor with a Weasley twin (BTS: 10:26)
Thank you, Lulu! The TV station will be airing another GOF special tonight, which we hope to have a video of soon.
(SOURCE: VERITASERUM)
New Pictures from Goblet of Fire
Some new pictures from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire have been sent to us featuring Ron, Cedric, Cho and many more.
Thanks to UHP for the tip.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
Thanks to UHP for the tip.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
Behind-the-Scenes Footage from 'GoF' Special
It seems that Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire specials are showing up everywhere. A new clip shows some behind-the-scenes that we haven't seen before, including Tom Felton dancing on the way before the dancing sequences, Tom asking Emma Watson for a dance and calling Ivan a lucky guy because he is dancing with Emma.
Full clip (24 MB; courtesy of VTM, right-click & save target as...) of Goblet of Fire special: Windows Media
Broken up clips of Goblet of Fire special: Windows Media courtesy of Awaken Cordy
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Quicktime clip of Goblet of Fire can be seen here
According to Awaken Cordy:
There are A LOT of never-before-seen moments like Tom Felton dancing on the way before the dancing sequences, or asking Emma Watson for a dance, OR calling Ivan a lucky guy because he is dancing with Emma. There are more behind-the-scenes moments such as the cast dancing like crazy in the main hall or at the Yule Ball.
You can view screen captures here courtesy of Awaken Cordy.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
Full clip (24 MB; courtesy of VTM, right-click & save target as...) of Goblet of Fire special: Windows Media
Broken up clips of Goblet of Fire special: Windows Media courtesy of Awaken Cordy
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Quicktime clip of Goblet of Fire can be seen here
According to Awaken Cordy:
There are A LOT of never-before-seen moments like Tom Felton dancing on the way before the dancing sequences, or asking Emma Watson for a dance, OR calling Ivan a lucky guy because he is dancing with Emma. There are more behind-the-scenes moments such as the cast dancing like crazy in the main hall or at the Yule Ball.
You can view screen captures here courtesy of Awaken Cordy.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
Dan Radcliffe on Set of December Boys
The Advertiser has our first look of the Harry Potter actor sitting with his fellow actors on set. Thanks to Jenna for the scan!
UPDATE: Thanks to Harry Potter Fan Zone, we have a color version of the image above as well as a brand-new one.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
UPDATE: Thanks to Harry Potter Fan Zone, we have a color version of the image above as well as a brand-new one.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
GoF Takes Over Box Office for Second Weekend
Goblet of Fire took in another $81.3 million over the holiday weekend, outselling Walk the Line, Chicken Little, and Rent (in that order). The fourth movie in the Potter series has now collectively earned $201.1 million since its release. Also of note, this Thanksgiving weekend was the second biggest in box office history.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Dan's First Kiss in December Boys
The Sydney Sunday Telegraph has a new article on the Harry Potter actor's new role in December Boys - currently being filmed in Australia. In it, they ask him about his first on-screen kiss:
"I'm very nervous," Radcliffe said yesterday. "But thankfully, Teresa, who plays Lucy, is also very nervous, so that will make it slightly easier."
The rest of the interview, as well as a new picture, can be seen here. Additionally, the Sydney Morning Herald has a separate article and picture that be visited at this link. Thanks to Christie for the scan!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
"I'm very nervous," Radcliffe said yesterday. "But thankfully, Teresa, who plays Lucy, is also very nervous, so that will make it slightly easier."
The rest of the interview, as well as a new picture, can be seen here. Additionally, the Sydney Morning Herald has a separate article and picture that be visited at this link. Thanks to Christie for the scan!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Interview with Rupert Grint
The Philippine Daily Inquirer sat down to talk with the actor who plays Ron Weasley in the Potter films:
If you were not an actor, what would you like to be?
I am not sure. I really do love acting now ... but I remember when I was a lot younger that I always wanted to be an ice cream man.
Thanks to Julia for the tip!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
If you were not an actor, what would you like to be?
I am not sure. I really do love acting now ... but I remember when I was a lot younger that I always wanted to be an ice cream man.
Thanks to Julia for the tip!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Hogwarts Goes Public!
The cable television station G4 recently did a segment about what would happen if Hogwarts became a public school. The video satirizes what goes on in American public schools. You can view the clip here. Thanks to Ricky for sending this in.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Friday, November 25, 2005
GoF Bulgarian Premiere Photos
Potter-Mania.com has some new pictures from the premiere attended by director Mike Newell and Krum actor Stanislav Ianevski. Check them out right here!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
100 Notable Books of the Year
The New York Times has included Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince in their list of 100 notable books for 2005. Thanks, Lori for the heads-up!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Dan Radcliffe's Next Project
The Harry Potter actor will not only be playing a role in December Boys - he has now signed on to guest appear in the second series of BBC's comedy show "Extras.
"Radcliffe isn't Ricky's only leetle friend - he is to voice a Miami gangster in a new computer game based on the Al Pacino movie Scarface. He told this week's Nuts magazine: 'I'm doing one of those voices that comes up whenever people get killed or something.
'Perhaps I shouldn't have told you that. I think it may be top secret. But I'm pretty excited about it. It should be pretty impressive.' Other actors taking part in the game - due out in February - include Steven Bauer, who played Manny Ray in the original film, Michael York and American comic Jay Mohr.
Thanks to everyone who wrote in!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
"Radcliffe isn't Ricky's only leetle friend - he is to voice a Miami gangster in a new computer game based on the Al Pacino movie Scarface. He told this week's Nuts magazine: 'I'm doing one of those voices that comes up whenever people get killed or something.
'Perhaps I shouldn't have told you that. I think it may be top secret. But I'm pretty excited about it. It should be pretty impressive.' Other actors taking part in the game - due out in February - include Steven Bauer, who played Manny Ray in the original film, Michael York and American comic Jay Mohr.
Thanks to everyone who wrote in!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
'Candle for Care' Fundraiser
Jenna (the lovely and multi-talented one), from our partner site, DanRadcliffe.com, has informed us that their Candle for Care Demelza House fundraiser has launched. Dan prefers fans to donate to Demelza House instead of sending him presents for the holiday season.
All fans that donate can send Jenna their Worldpay receipt and a wish for Daniel that will be included in a professionally bound book, courtesy of Demelza House, for Dan this Christmas season. In addition, all fans that donate through DR.com have the chance to be featured in a special upcoming Holiday issue of ACED Magazine (this also goes to Dan directly) with their creative fundraising stories. You can find out more about the fundraiser and watch a video of Dan talking about this great cause at this link. Please help to support this very worthy cause - contact Jenna with any questions.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
All fans that donate can send Jenna their Worldpay receipt and a wish for Daniel that will be included in a professionally bound book, courtesy of Demelza House, for Dan this Christmas season. In addition, all fans that donate through DR.com have the chance to be featured in a special upcoming Holiday issue of ACED Magazine (this also goes to Dan directly) with their creative fundraising stories. You can find out more about the fundraiser and watch a video of Dan talking about this great cause at this link. Please help to support this very worthy cause - contact Jenna with any questions.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Thursday, November 24, 2005
New HP Interviews
Four new Harry Potter cast interviews have been posted up on Planeta TV's website. Thanks to Jas for the tip off!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Dan Interview in 'Rolling Stone' Magazine
This month's edition of "Rolling Stone" magazine featured a Goblet of Fire movie review (they gave it three stars), along with a brand-new interview with Dan Radcliffe. Here's an excerpt:
How crazy are your fans?
When I was twelve, I was walking down the street next to this girl in France, and she started screaming! And I was really frightened, so I started screaming.
Rumor has it your dating your twenty-three-year-old makeup artist?
She's a really good friend of mine - her name's Amy. We're not actually going out. The rumors are odd, but it's probably more strange for her.
Thanks to Harry Potter's Page for the scans!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
How crazy are your fans?
When I was twelve, I was walking down the street next to this girl in France, and she started screaming! And I was really frightened, so I started screaming.
Rumor has it your dating your twenty-three-year-old makeup artist?
She's a really good friend of mine - her name's Amy. We're not actually going out. The rumors are odd, but it's probably more strange for her.
Thanks to Harry Potter's Page for the scans!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Monday, November 21, 2005
Potter Actor Now Richest Teenager in Britain
The London Sunday Times has reported that 16-year-old Daniel Radcliffe has signed a deal worth at least $14 million to play Harry Potter once again in the forthcoming Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the fifth film in the series. (It noted that he received $250,000 to make the first Potter film.) The newspaper observed that the deal makes Radcliffe the richest teenager in Britain. In an interview with the newspaper, Radcliffe said, "I don't actually know how much I am worth at this point. In a way, I think that's right. It's not something that affects the way I think about things." The Times observed that Gilmore Jacobs, a firm set up by Radcliffe's parents to manage his business affairs, has earned $17 million from the first three films. Philip Beresford, compiler of The Sunday Times Rich List, said: "I've never seen such profitable accounts for someone so young. I would not be surprised if he enters adulthood with [$34 million] in the bank, with all his taxes paid. He has left his teenage rivals struggling in the slipstream of his broomstick."
(SOURCE: IMDB)
(SOURCE: IMDB)
Six Young 'Muggles' Declare Harry a Hit!
Our Hogwarts mate Sylvia found another wonderful article about GoF. This one is from The Seattle Times and features the thoughts of some of Harry's most ardent fans. Thanks Sylvia for passing this one on too!!
"The friendship between the three main characters is touching, honest, and stronger. The best part is, I don't think they're acting anymore." - Anne Elizabeth Laurel
"This movie was magical, from the thrilling beginning to the heartbreaking end..." - Emily J. Ralston
"Gleeson played a Mad-Eye that was both frightening and intriguing at the same time." - Maya Inamura
"...the Hungarian Horntail that Harry was battling seemed so realistic. It looked like a real dragon. It sure was scary, with all those spikes." - Ryan Miller
The mermaids and other special-effects were a hit.
Early this week, on a dark and windy night, magic was afoot at a local multiplex, where six young Seattle Times readers - winners of our "Harry Potter" essay contest - joined me for an advance screening of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." Each of us had a task nearly as daunting as any in the Triwizard Tournament: to watch the film carefully and to write a review of it for The Times. My review appeared in Thursday's paper; reviews by Anne, Ashlie, Emily, Jake, Maya and Ryan are below. All of us approved of the film, for many different reasons. Read and enjoy these six reviews, all from thoughtful "Harry Potter" experts who know that the pen (or the computer) can be as powerful as any magic wand.
- Moira Macdonald, Seattle Times movie critic (who, it should be pointed out, bears no resemblance whatsoever to Rita Skeeter)
By Emily J. Ralston
Special to The Seattle Times
I am in total agreement with Harry: I love magic. Or in this case, really, really good special effects. This movie was magical, from the thrilling beginning to the heartbreaking end, and it came complete with moving walls, levitating books, magical spells and bizarre creatures.
Although somewhat darker than the previous Harry Potter movies, this only added to the suspense. The dragons were a nail-biting thriller, the underwater challenge challenged your heart rate, and the final test, the maze, was a hold-on-to-your seat ride.
Lord Voldemort is in every way the bone-chilling villain that I imagined, and Professor Mad-Eye Moody is simply a delight, complete with a whizzing glass eye, peg leg and a biting sense of humor.
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson did a terrific acting job, and they seem very much at home in their roles as Harry, Ron and Hermione, at the ever-changing Hogwarts. So much so that they almost led my fanciful imagination to believe that there really are wonderful places where magical creatures live and magic thrives, unchecked by reality.
All in all, "The Goblet of Fire" has everything that makes a terrific movie: lots of action, a great cast, the best special effects that I've ever seen and a plot that can't be beat. This is BY FAR the best Harry Potter movie yet! (You really should go see it!)
Emily J. Ralston is 12 years old and a seventh-grader at St. Paul School in Seattle
By Anne Elizabeth Laurel
Special to The Seattle Times
Dear Muggles,
I am pleased to inform you that "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" starts out bold and daring, raising questions and captivating you. The new director does not stray from the yellow brick road of J.K. Rowling's masterpiece in any unsatisfying way. In fact, the parts he eliminates pull the story together. All of the strings of the plot fall in place at the just right time, and then you realize just how brilliant it all is, making it worth the lines for popcorn.
I loved it. The fear the Death Eaters instill, the fast pace that leaves you breathless, and the incredible special effects. It makes you believe in magic, if only for the space of 2 ½ hours. The dialogue is better, and there are no poor stumbling children carrying the weight of a full seven-book saga on their shoulders. Now we have true actors. You realize Dumbledore's complicated thought process and the reason for his intensity. The fights between friends become more than just teenage irrationality, but scenarios you can see yourself in, and you understand everything. The dragon (and the fact that in a few years we get to see this gorgeous boy kiss a girl) gave me tingles. Fred and George, with their hilarious one-liners in unison, made me choke on my licorice.
The friendship between the three main characters is touching, honest and stronger. The best part is, I don't think they're acting anymore.
Anne Elizabeth Laurel is 13 years old and an eighth-grader at Totem Middle School in Federal Way
By Maya Inamura
Special to The Seattle Times
If you're like me and know the book "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" back to front and inside out, you're going to be at least a little disappointed with the movie.
Hermione's dress robes aren't periwinkle. Ludo Bagman doesn't show up. And there's no mention of Dobby or Winky, the house elves. But if you're like me, you're going to appreciate the movie anyway.
Harry's three Triwizard Tournament tasks were heavily emphasized. Most of the PG-13 moments lie here. Voldemort's rise to power was gruesome, and the Hungarian Horntail dragon was certainly frightening. While these particular scenes were done well, I felt that some other parts of the movie deserved more attention - for example the Quidditch World Cup. Disappointingly, the match itself was not included which would have been very interesting to watch.
Brendan Gleeson portraying Mad-Eye Moody was certainly convincing. While far from the mental image of Mad-Eye I had, Gleeson played a Mad-Eye that was both frightening and intriguing at the same time. However Michael Gambon's performance as Dumbledore was thoroughly disappointing. While Richard Harris' portrayal of Dumbledore [in the first two movies, before his death in 2002] was powerful yet benevolent, Gambon's portrayal is powerful and frightening, quite different from the Dumbledore in the book.
My dreams would come true if the producers did the movies exactly like the books. But I know this is impossible, so I appreciate the movies the way they are. "Goblet of Fire" is a gripping movie and I highly recommend it to everyone, Potter fans or not. Mischief managed!
Maya Inamura is 13 years old and a freshman at the Lakeside School in Seattle
By Jake Pruchno
Special to The Seattle Times
I liked "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" because there were good action scenes like at the graveyard, sad moments and cute times like at the Yule Ball. Voldemort may have been a little freaky, but it was a good movie. I would recommend this to anybody who likes Harry Potter and action.
A few times the movie didn't give all the information, like when Harry is figuring out how to get past his dragon or when he asks Pavarti to go to the ball with him. I would advise you to read the book first so you don't get confused. There were also a few ripoffs, like there is no Ludo Bagman and you don't watch the Quidditch World Cup.
One of the funniest parts was when Fred and George have beards.
All in all, this was a really good movie that you would want to see.
Jake Pruchno is 9 years old and a fourth-grader at Lakeridge Elementary on Mercer Island
By Ashlie Humphries
Special to The Seattle Times
Lord Voldemort is alive, very much alive in this movie. Harry gets an inch from death and an innocent person dies. Also the unexpected happens. So come with Harry, Ron and Hermione into the world of Hogwarts.
This movie is a thriller. It keeps you on the edge of your seat. I strongly say they took too much out of the movie in the beginning, like the Quidditch World Cup. But everything they did have was amazing, like the rebirth of Lord Voldemort and the mermaids. Also Hagrid's old baby dragon that gets turned into a giant fearsome horntailed dragon.
I trust you will join Ron and his Yule Ball dress robes for "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire."
Ashlie Humphries is 10 years old and a fifth-grader at Sunny Hills Elementary in Sammamish.
By Ryan Miller
Special to The Seattle Times
I really liked "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." I think it was a very cool movie, especially the Triwizard Tournament. It was great to watch Harry go through the tasks.
During the first task, the Hungarian Horntail that Harry was battling seemed so realistic. It looked like a real dragon. It sure was scary, with all those spikes.
The second task was totally awesome, but it was kind of weird when Harry sprouted gills after eating gillyweed. He was writhing around in the water, like he was in great pain. The lake task was my favorite. I liked the underwater scenery. The maze, in the third task, was huge. I found it kind of creepy, how the hedge's roots tripped the contestants and pulled them towards the tall bushes that made up the walls. It didn't seem like the Triwizard cup was hidden very deep within the maze.
Later, Harry and Cedric Diggory, another Triwizard champion, found themselves in a graveyard, where they meet Lord Voldemort. Then something tragic happens, but I'm not going to tell you about it. Harry and Voldemort battle, with unexpected results. Who would have thought that Harry, with a wimpy beginner's spell, would be a match for Voldemort's killing curse?
This movie is scary, cool, and not for little kids or kids who are easily scared.
However, I enjoyed it so much that I can't wait until I get to see it again. If you're a Harry Potter fan, you'll love this movie, too.
Ryan Miller is 9-year-old and a fourth-grader at Whittier Elementary in Seattle.
Copyright © 2005 The Seattle Times Company
"The friendship between the three main characters is touching, honest, and stronger. The best part is, I don't think they're acting anymore." - Anne Elizabeth Laurel
"This movie was magical, from the thrilling beginning to the heartbreaking end..." - Emily J. Ralston
"Gleeson played a Mad-Eye that was both frightening and intriguing at the same time." - Maya Inamura
"...the Hungarian Horntail that Harry was battling seemed so realistic. It looked like a real dragon. It sure was scary, with all those spikes." - Ryan Miller
The mermaids and other special-effects were a hit.
Early this week, on a dark and windy night, magic was afoot at a local multiplex, where six young Seattle Times readers - winners of our "Harry Potter" essay contest - joined me for an advance screening of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." Each of us had a task nearly as daunting as any in the Triwizard Tournament: to watch the film carefully and to write a review of it for The Times. My review appeared in Thursday's paper; reviews by Anne, Ashlie, Emily, Jake, Maya and Ryan are below. All of us approved of the film, for many different reasons. Read and enjoy these six reviews, all from thoughtful "Harry Potter" experts who know that the pen (or the computer) can be as powerful as any magic wand.
- Moira Macdonald, Seattle Times movie critic (who, it should be pointed out, bears no resemblance whatsoever to Rita Skeeter)
By Emily J. Ralston
Special to The Seattle Times
I am in total agreement with Harry: I love magic. Or in this case, really, really good special effects. This movie was magical, from the thrilling beginning to the heartbreaking end, and it came complete with moving walls, levitating books, magical spells and bizarre creatures.
Although somewhat darker than the previous Harry Potter movies, this only added to the suspense. The dragons were a nail-biting thriller, the underwater challenge challenged your heart rate, and the final test, the maze, was a hold-on-to-your seat ride.
Lord Voldemort is in every way the bone-chilling villain that I imagined, and Professor Mad-Eye Moody is simply a delight, complete with a whizzing glass eye, peg leg and a biting sense of humor.
Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson did a terrific acting job, and they seem very much at home in their roles as Harry, Ron and Hermione, at the ever-changing Hogwarts. So much so that they almost led my fanciful imagination to believe that there really are wonderful places where magical creatures live and magic thrives, unchecked by reality.
All in all, "The Goblet of Fire" has everything that makes a terrific movie: lots of action, a great cast, the best special effects that I've ever seen and a plot that can't be beat. This is BY FAR the best Harry Potter movie yet! (You really should go see it!)
Emily J. Ralston is 12 years old and a seventh-grader at St. Paul School in Seattle
By Anne Elizabeth Laurel
Special to The Seattle Times
Dear Muggles,
I am pleased to inform you that "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" starts out bold and daring, raising questions and captivating you. The new director does not stray from the yellow brick road of J.K. Rowling's masterpiece in any unsatisfying way. In fact, the parts he eliminates pull the story together. All of the strings of the plot fall in place at the just right time, and then you realize just how brilliant it all is, making it worth the lines for popcorn.
I loved it. The fear the Death Eaters instill, the fast pace that leaves you breathless, and the incredible special effects. It makes you believe in magic, if only for the space of 2 ½ hours. The dialogue is better, and there are no poor stumbling children carrying the weight of a full seven-book saga on their shoulders. Now we have true actors. You realize Dumbledore's complicated thought process and the reason for his intensity. The fights between friends become more than just teenage irrationality, but scenarios you can see yourself in, and you understand everything. The dragon (and the fact that in a few years we get to see this gorgeous boy kiss a girl) gave me tingles. Fred and George, with their hilarious one-liners in unison, made me choke on my licorice.
The friendship between the three main characters is touching, honest and stronger. The best part is, I don't think they're acting anymore.
Anne Elizabeth Laurel is 13 years old and an eighth-grader at Totem Middle School in Federal Way
By Maya Inamura
Special to The Seattle Times
If you're like me and know the book "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" back to front and inside out, you're going to be at least a little disappointed with the movie.
Hermione's dress robes aren't periwinkle. Ludo Bagman doesn't show up. And there's no mention of Dobby or Winky, the house elves. But if you're like me, you're going to appreciate the movie anyway.
Harry's three Triwizard Tournament tasks were heavily emphasized. Most of the PG-13 moments lie here. Voldemort's rise to power was gruesome, and the Hungarian Horntail dragon was certainly frightening. While these particular scenes were done well, I felt that some other parts of the movie deserved more attention - for example the Quidditch World Cup. Disappointingly, the match itself was not included which would have been very interesting to watch.
Brendan Gleeson portraying Mad-Eye Moody was certainly convincing. While far from the mental image of Mad-Eye I had, Gleeson played a Mad-Eye that was both frightening and intriguing at the same time. However Michael Gambon's performance as Dumbledore was thoroughly disappointing. While Richard Harris' portrayal of Dumbledore [in the first two movies, before his death in 2002] was powerful yet benevolent, Gambon's portrayal is powerful and frightening, quite different from the Dumbledore in the book.
My dreams would come true if the producers did the movies exactly like the books. But I know this is impossible, so I appreciate the movies the way they are. "Goblet of Fire" is a gripping movie and I highly recommend it to everyone, Potter fans or not. Mischief managed!
Maya Inamura is 13 years old and a freshman at the Lakeside School in Seattle
By Jake Pruchno
Special to The Seattle Times
I liked "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" because there were good action scenes like at the graveyard, sad moments and cute times like at the Yule Ball. Voldemort may have been a little freaky, but it was a good movie. I would recommend this to anybody who likes Harry Potter and action.
A few times the movie didn't give all the information, like when Harry is figuring out how to get past his dragon or when he asks Pavarti to go to the ball with him. I would advise you to read the book first so you don't get confused. There were also a few ripoffs, like there is no Ludo Bagman and you don't watch the Quidditch World Cup.
One of the funniest parts was when Fred and George have beards.
All in all, this was a really good movie that you would want to see.
Jake Pruchno is 9 years old and a fourth-grader at Lakeridge Elementary on Mercer Island
By Ashlie Humphries
Special to The Seattle Times
Lord Voldemort is alive, very much alive in this movie. Harry gets an inch from death and an innocent person dies. Also the unexpected happens. So come with Harry, Ron and Hermione into the world of Hogwarts.
This movie is a thriller. It keeps you on the edge of your seat. I strongly say they took too much out of the movie in the beginning, like the Quidditch World Cup. But everything they did have was amazing, like the rebirth of Lord Voldemort and the mermaids. Also Hagrid's old baby dragon that gets turned into a giant fearsome horntailed dragon.
I trust you will join Ron and his Yule Ball dress robes for "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire."
Ashlie Humphries is 10 years old and a fifth-grader at Sunny Hills Elementary in Sammamish.
By Ryan Miller
Special to The Seattle Times
I really liked "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." I think it was a very cool movie, especially the Triwizard Tournament. It was great to watch Harry go through the tasks.
During the first task, the Hungarian Horntail that Harry was battling seemed so realistic. It looked like a real dragon. It sure was scary, with all those spikes.
The second task was totally awesome, but it was kind of weird when Harry sprouted gills after eating gillyweed. He was writhing around in the water, like he was in great pain. The lake task was my favorite. I liked the underwater scenery. The maze, in the third task, was huge. I found it kind of creepy, how the hedge's roots tripped the contestants and pulled them towards the tall bushes that made up the walls. It didn't seem like the Triwizard cup was hidden very deep within the maze.
Later, Harry and Cedric Diggory, another Triwizard champion, found themselves in a graveyard, where they meet Lord Voldemort. Then something tragic happens, but I'm not going to tell you about it. Harry and Voldemort battle, with unexpected results. Who would have thought that Harry, with a wimpy beginner's spell, would be a match for Voldemort's killing curse?
This movie is scary, cool, and not for little kids or kids who are easily scared.
However, I enjoyed it so much that I can't wait until I get to see it again. If you're a Harry Potter fan, you'll love this movie, too.
Ryan Miller is 9-year-old and a fourth-grader at Whittier Elementary in Seattle.
Copyright © 2005 The Seattle Times Company
'Goblet' of Teen Angst
Here's a great little op ed piece from USA Today about Goblet of Fire. Thanks to our Hogwarts mate Sylvia for passing this on!
Distributors of the latest Harry Potter movie had worried about its PG-13 rating - up from a PG because of more mature themes and scary scenes as Harry and friends hit puberty. Could Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire keep the under-12 crowd hooked while not losing the MTV generation (and many adults)?
The Potter magic proved those fears wrong. The movie opened with a commercial Big Bang in the USA over the weekend as it took in an estimated $101.4 million, the fourth-largest opening ever. But its potentially longer-lasting wizardry lies in something else: making teenagers more human.
These days, teens all too often get a bad rap, stereotyped as a subhuman species prone to violence and irrationality and obsessed with sex and drugs. Just watch TV series like The O.C., or movies like Thirteen. Listen to their rap music, read about their maniacal video games like Grand Theft Auto, or scan headlines about homicidal teens being tried as adults.
Goblet of Fire instead goes inside the universal challenges of growing up. Into the awkwardness of discovering the opposite sex, as Harry and company have to find dates for the Yule Ball at Hogwarts School. Into the humiliations: rejection, jealousies, rivalries. It navigates what experts say are very real stages of human development.
The three earlier movies (and the books) appealed to younger audiences as Harry discovered his power. His teenage challenges are more complex: finding ways to deal with fear, for example. And the importance of choices - as Harry defends himself against the Dark Arts, he has to resist his own potential to use them. They're challenges teens face, and too many adults have forgotten.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is scary: plenty of blood and evil in its fantastical world. But today's hard-edged teen stereotypes may be more dangerously so. So much the better if Harry can help defeat them, along with his nemesis Lord Voldemort.
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
Distributors of the latest Harry Potter movie had worried about its PG-13 rating - up from a PG because of more mature themes and scary scenes as Harry and friends hit puberty. Could Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire keep the under-12 crowd hooked while not losing the MTV generation (and many adults)?
The Potter magic proved those fears wrong. The movie opened with a commercial Big Bang in the USA over the weekend as it took in an estimated $101.4 million, the fourth-largest opening ever. But its potentially longer-lasting wizardry lies in something else: making teenagers more human.
These days, teens all too often get a bad rap, stereotyped as a subhuman species prone to violence and irrationality and obsessed with sex and drugs. Just watch TV series like The O.C., or movies like Thirteen. Listen to their rap music, read about their maniacal video games like Grand Theft Auto, or scan headlines about homicidal teens being tried as adults.
Goblet of Fire instead goes inside the universal challenges of growing up. Into the awkwardness of discovering the opposite sex, as Harry and company have to find dates for the Yule Ball at Hogwarts School. Into the humiliations: rejection, jealousies, rivalries. It navigates what experts say are very real stages of human development.
The three earlier movies (and the books) appealed to younger audiences as Harry discovered his power. His teenage challenges are more complex: finding ways to deal with fear, for example. And the importance of choices - as Harry defends himself against the Dark Arts, he has to resist his own potential to use them. They're challenges teens face, and too many adults have forgotten.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is scary: plenty of blood and evil in its fantastical world. But today's hard-edged teen stereotypes may be more dangerously so. So much the better if Harry can help defeat them, along with his nemesis Lord Voldemort.
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
Foreign Auds Raise 'Goblet': 'Potter' Powers O'Seas B.O. with $80 Mil Bow
It's totally Harry Potter's world once more.
"Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" ignited what had been a mild foreign box office with $80 million on 6,000 prints in 19 countries, finishing first in every market and setting a slew of records.
Despite opening in only three leading foreign markets -- the U.K., Germany and Mexico -- the fourth Potter pic nearly equaled the larger foreign launch of "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," which included the U.K., Germany, France, Italy and Mexico and totaled $87.2 million at 7,885 screens in 24 markets in June 2004.
"Goblet of Fire" will launch next weekend in Japan, Italy and Spain, Benelux and Brazil, followed by France and Australia during the first December frame. The initial figures indicate "Goblet" could approach the same foreign totals for its predecessors -- $543 million for "The Prisoner of Azkaban," $617 million for "The Chamber of Secrets" and $656 million for "The Sorcerer's Stone."
'GOBLET' GOBBLES UP RECORDS
The U.K. led the "Goblet" charge with $24.6 million at 1,462 playdates, representing the top three-day weekend (excluding previews) and top three-day launch as it beat the Monday-Wednesday holiday-weekend opening of "Azkaban."
"Goblet" dominated in Germany with $19.8 million at 1,243 sites, representing more than 85% of the box office from the top five flicks. The Teuton total is the best four-day launch in Germany and trails only the five-day openings for the second and third "Lord of the Rings" films.
Mexican audiences drank deeply from "Goblet," with $6.8 million at 654 for the best launch for a Warner Bros. film and the third biggest of all time. Taiwan posted the fourth biggest foreign figure with $3.5 million at 184, the second biggest launch in that market after "Kung Fu Hustle."
China, which went day-and-date for the first time on a Potter pic, followed with $3.4 million at 349 playdates, marking the top launch for a Warner film in that market. Denmark saw "Goblet" turn in the top three-day opening (excluding previews) with $2.6 million at 97, while Sweden and Austria generated $2.5 million each, followed by Norway with $2.2 million and Thailand with $2 million.
Though key foreign markets such as Germany, France and Spain have seen double-digit declines so far in 2005, the fourth Potter pic and next month's worldwide launches of "The Chronicles of Narnia" by BVI and "King Kong" by UIP may prove a tonic. Should all three click, international territories will end the year with far more respectable numbers compared with 2004's elevated figures.
(SOURCE: VARIETY)
"Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" ignited what had been a mild foreign box office with $80 million on 6,000 prints in 19 countries, finishing first in every market and setting a slew of records.
Despite opening in only three leading foreign markets -- the U.K., Germany and Mexico -- the fourth Potter pic nearly equaled the larger foreign launch of "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," which included the U.K., Germany, France, Italy and Mexico and totaled $87.2 million at 7,885 screens in 24 markets in June 2004.
"Goblet of Fire" will launch next weekend in Japan, Italy and Spain, Benelux and Brazil, followed by France and Australia during the first December frame. The initial figures indicate "Goblet" could approach the same foreign totals for its predecessors -- $543 million for "The Prisoner of Azkaban," $617 million for "The Chamber of Secrets" and $656 million for "The Sorcerer's Stone."
'GOBLET' GOBBLES UP RECORDS
The U.K. led the "Goblet" charge with $24.6 million at 1,462 playdates, representing the top three-day weekend (excluding previews) and top three-day launch as it beat the Monday-Wednesday holiday-weekend opening of "Azkaban."
"Goblet" dominated in Germany with $19.8 million at 1,243 sites, representing more than 85% of the box office from the top five flicks. The Teuton total is the best four-day launch in Germany and trails only the five-day openings for the second and third "Lord of the Rings" films.
Mexican audiences drank deeply from "Goblet," with $6.8 million at 654 for the best launch for a Warner Bros. film and the third biggest of all time. Taiwan posted the fourth biggest foreign figure with $3.5 million at 184, the second biggest launch in that market after "Kung Fu Hustle."
China, which went day-and-date for the first time on a Potter pic, followed with $3.4 million at 349 playdates, marking the top launch for a Warner film in that market. Denmark saw "Goblet" turn in the top three-day opening (excluding previews) with $2.6 million at 97, while Sweden and Austria generated $2.5 million each, followed by Norway with $2.2 million and Thailand with $2 million.
Though key foreign markets such as Germany, France and Spain have seen double-digit declines so far in 2005, the fourth Potter pic and next month's worldwide launches of "The Chronicles of Narnia" by BVI and "King Kong" by UIP may prove a tonic. Should all three click, international territories will end the year with far more respectable numbers compared with 2004's elevated figures.
(SOURCE: VARIETY)
Give 'Em Hell, 'Harry': Wiz Casts $101 Million Spell
Harry Potter's power over moviegoers grows stronger with age, as the teen wizard conjured his best box office ever in his fourth outing, grossing $101.4 million on 3,858 screens for a magical $26,290 per play.
That gives WB's "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" the fourth biggest Friday-Sunday gross of all time, displacing the previous franchise entry, "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," and falling behind only "Spider-Man," "Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith" and "Shrek 2." The latter two opened midweek.
It's the only pic in the all-time top five that didn't open in May or June, making it the biggest holiday season bow ever.
Total worldwide take, including an additional 5,900 screens in 19 foreign territories, was $181.4 million.
Despite the first PG-13 rating for a "Potter" pic, demos for "Goblet of Fire" were similar to 2004's "Azkaban." Kids made up 42% of the aud, with parents another 20% and non-family adults 38%.
"This is the biggest weekend in Warner Bros. history," noted WB distrib prexy Dan Fellman. "With three more (Potter pics) to go, we're looking forward to leaving more marks in the record books."
"Potter" reached the stratosphere without setting any one-day records. First-day take of $39.4 million does tie it with "Spider-Man" for the biggest Friday ever, but that's the seventh highest opening day in history.
In a promising sign for playability, "Goblet of Fire" declined only 10% to $35.5 million on Saturday.
The first three "Potter" pics bowed with, in order, $90.3 million, $88.4 million and $93.7 million, with the first two opening in November 2001 and 2002 and the third in June 2004.
"Goblet of Fire" made $2.8 million on 66 Imax screens over the weekend, giving it a per-play average of $42,951. That's the highest ever in the giant-screen format, just beating the $2.7 million record set by "The Polar Express."
Thanks to "Goblet of Fire," weekend was up 21% from a year ago, when "National Treasure" opened to $35.1 million, followed closely by "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie."
(SOURCE: VARIETY)
That gives WB's "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" the fourth biggest Friday-Sunday gross of all time, displacing the previous franchise entry, "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," and falling behind only "Spider-Man," "Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith" and "Shrek 2." The latter two opened midweek.
It's the only pic in the all-time top five that didn't open in May or June, making it the biggest holiday season bow ever.
Total worldwide take, including an additional 5,900 screens in 19 foreign territories, was $181.4 million.
Despite the first PG-13 rating for a "Potter" pic, demos for "Goblet of Fire" were similar to 2004's "Azkaban." Kids made up 42% of the aud, with parents another 20% and non-family adults 38%.
"This is the biggest weekend in Warner Bros. history," noted WB distrib prexy Dan Fellman. "With three more (Potter pics) to go, we're looking forward to leaving more marks in the record books."
"Potter" reached the stratosphere without setting any one-day records. First-day take of $39.4 million does tie it with "Spider-Man" for the biggest Friday ever, but that's the seventh highest opening day in history.
In a promising sign for playability, "Goblet of Fire" declined only 10% to $35.5 million on Saturday.
The first three "Potter" pics bowed with, in order, $90.3 million, $88.4 million and $93.7 million, with the first two opening in November 2001 and 2002 and the third in June 2004.
"Goblet of Fire" made $2.8 million on 66 Imax screens over the weekend, giving it a per-play average of $42,951. That's the highest ever in the giant-screen format, just beating the $2.7 million record set by "The Polar Express."
Thanks to "Goblet of Fire," weekend was up 21% from a year ago, when "National Treasure" opened to $35.1 million, followed closely by "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie."
(SOURCE: VARIETY)
Warner's 'Goblet' Runneth Over at $101.4 Mil
Warner Bros. Pictures' "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" worked some powerful and much-needed magic at the boxoffice this weekend, levitating an estimate of a $101.4 million pot in its North American bow. With about $80 million in international receipts, the worldwide boxoffice for "Goblet" stands at an impressive $181.4 million.
The sensational domestic debut marked a new high for the franchise, the fourth-biggest nonholiday opening in boxoffice history and the largest opening in the fourth quarter.
The latest installment and fourth film in the "Potter" series, helmed by Mike Newell and starring Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson, marked the first time Warner Bros. had a picture open to more than $100 million. "Goblet" joins an elite club and takes a seat at the table with Sony's "Spider-Man" and "Spider-Man 2," 20th Century Fox's "Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith," and DreamWorks' "Shrek 2."
Remarking on the tremendous opening of "Goblet," Fellman said: "It was a real team effort, starting with Alan Horn and Jeff Robinov hiring Mike Newell, who did an outstanding job, Dawn Taubin and her marketing team, especially Jim Fredrick, who has been the creative director from Day 1 on 'Potter' and has been able to keep the campaigns fresh and compelling."
Fellman noted that the PG-13 "Goblet" was the best reviewed of the four Potter films and added, "Not only did the critics agree, but exits support that as well." Fellman said "Goblet" is well-positioned to be a major contender throughout the Christmas holiday.
Imax theaters contributed a record $2.8 million from 66 screens to the weekend's gross for "Goblet," averaging a robust $42,424 per theater. It was the largest Friday, Saturday and Sunday grosses ever reported for an Imax film, whether 2-D or 3-D, Fellman said.
The distributor also is set to make movie history with "Goblet" when it crosses the $200 million mark. "Goblet" will join "Batman Begins" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" as Warner Bros.' third film released this year to reach that level. No studio has had three films gross more than $200 million each in one year.
(SOURCE: THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER)
The sensational domestic debut marked a new high for the franchise, the fourth-biggest nonholiday opening in boxoffice history and the largest opening in the fourth quarter.
The latest installment and fourth film in the "Potter" series, helmed by Mike Newell and starring Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson, marked the first time Warner Bros. had a picture open to more than $100 million. "Goblet" joins an elite club and takes a seat at the table with Sony's "Spider-Man" and "Spider-Man 2," 20th Century Fox's "Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith," and DreamWorks' "Shrek 2."
Remarking on the tremendous opening of "Goblet," Fellman said: "It was a real team effort, starting with Alan Horn and Jeff Robinov hiring Mike Newell, who did an outstanding job, Dawn Taubin and her marketing team, especially Jim Fredrick, who has been the creative director from Day 1 on 'Potter' and has been able to keep the campaigns fresh and compelling."
Fellman noted that the PG-13 "Goblet" was the best reviewed of the four Potter films and added, "Not only did the critics agree, but exits support that as well." Fellman said "Goblet" is well-positioned to be a major contender throughout the Christmas holiday.
Imax theaters contributed a record $2.8 million from 66 screens to the weekend's gross for "Goblet," averaging a robust $42,424 per theater. It was the largest Friday, Saturday and Sunday grosses ever reported for an Imax film, whether 2-D or 3-D, Fellman said.
The distributor also is set to make movie history with "Goblet" when it crosses the $200 million mark. "Goblet" will join "Batman Begins" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" as Warner Bros.' third film released this year to reach that level. No studio has had three films gross more than $200 million each in one year.
(SOURCE: THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER)
'Goblet of Fire' Keeps Wizard Tales Hot
He may be getting older and struggling with love, but Harry Potter isn't losing his magic touch in theaters.
Despite its darker themes and a PG-13 rating, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire enjoyed the fourth-largest movie opening ever with $101.4 million, according to estimates from Nielsen EDI .
The debut is the largest of the Potter series and made the franchise Hollywood's fourth-largest ever.
The series has raked in about $930 million domestically, behind only the Star Wars, James Bond and Lord of the Rings franchises. (Related chart: See the weekend's top 10 films)
And Potter could overtake Lord of the Rings, which took in $1.1 billion, by the end of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
"This is pretty unprecedented for a fourth film in a series," says Brandon Gray of Box Office Mojo. "Normally, these movies lose a little bit of steam."
Though the fourth installment of the Star Wars franchise, 1999's Phantom Menace, enjoyed the second-highest gross of the series, "that movie came 16 years after the previous one," Gray says of 1983's Return of the Jedi.
"There was a lot of built-up anticipation for another Star Wars," Gray says. "Potter is an uninterrupted series, and the movies don't even come that far apart. People are growing up with Harry Potter, and they're turning out to see what happens next to him."
Indeed, the story about a boy wizard coping with power and love continues to lure adults. According to distributor Warner Bros., 38% of moviegoers this weekend were adults attending without children.
Warner Bros. distribution chief Dan Fellman attributes the franchise's strength to its devotion to the books.
"We are really trying not to stray from the original story," he says. "That audience is so large and so devoted, there's no need to change things."
Final figures are due Monday.
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
Despite its darker themes and a PG-13 rating, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire enjoyed the fourth-largest movie opening ever with $101.4 million, according to estimates from Nielsen EDI .
The debut is the largest of the Potter series and made the franchise Hollywood's fourth-largest ever.
The series has raked in about $930 million domestically, behind only the Star Wars, James Bond and Lord of the Rings franchises. (Related chart: See the weekend's top 10 films)
And Potter could overtake Lord of the Rings, which took in $1.1 billion, by the end of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
"This is pretty unprecedented for a fourth film in a series," says Brandon Gray of Box Office Mojo. "Normally, these movies lose a little bit of steam."
Though the fourth installment of the Star Wars franchise, 1999's Phantom Menace, enjoyed the second-highest gross of the series, "that movie came 16 years after the previous one," Gray says of 1983's Return of the Jedi.
"There was a lot of built-up anticipation for another Star Wars," Gray says. "Potter is an uninterrupted series, and the movies don't even come that far apart. People are growing up with Harry Potter, and they're turning out to see what happens next to him."
Indeed, the story about a boy wizard coping with power and love continues to lure adults. According to distributor Warner Bros., 38% of moviegoers this weekend were adults attending without children.
Warner Bros. distribution chief Dan Fellman attributes the franchise's strength to its devotion to the books.
"We are really trying not to stray from the original story," he says. "That audience is so large and so devoted, there's no need to change things."
Final figures are due Monday.
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
Goblet of Fire 4th Biggest Three Day Opening Ever
The opening of the latest Harry Potter movie is one of the ages as it ranks in the Top 5 three-day opening weekends ever.
1. Spider-Man 5/3/02$114.8 million
2. Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith5/19/05$108.4 million
3. Shrek 25/19/04$108 million
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire11/18/05$101.4 million
5. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban6/4/04$93.7 million
Sources: Box Office Mojo, The Associated Press
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
1. Spider-Man 5/3/02$114.8 million
2. Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith5/19/05$108.4 million
3. Shrek 25/19/04$108 million
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire11/18/05$101.4 million
5. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban6/4/04$93.7 million
Sources: Box Office Mojo, The Associated Press
(SOURCE: USA TODAY)
TV Guide Interviews David Heyman
With publicity dying down for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, TV Guide has an interview with producer David Heyman. In the interview David talks about the movie as well as his new television series, Threshold.
TVGuide.com: Have you any decisions been made regarding things that need to get cut from that installment?
Heyman: Ultimately, it's Harry's story, so that's where the focus lies. All the films are borne out of that.
TVGuide.com: Will it be hard to say goodbye to the Potter movies after the last one is done?
Heyman: I think it will be sad. Working on Harry is like being with family, and the family doesn't get much better than this. Everything about working with Warner Brothers, these great directors, these amazing actors and this material that Jo has given us, to have each book be so different.... Of course there'll be sadness.
You can read the rest of the interview here.
Thanks to Isabella for the tip.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
TVGuide.com: Have you any decisions been made regarding things that need to get cut from that installment?
Heyman: Ultimately, it's Harry's story, so that's where the focus lies. All the films are borne out of that.
TVGuide.com: Will it be hard to say goodbye to the Potter movies after the last one is done?
Heyman: I think it will be sad. Working on Harry is like being with family, and the family doesn't get much better than this. Everything about working with Warner Brothers, these great directors, these amazing actors and this material that Jo has given us, to have each book be so different.... Of course there'll be sadness.
You can read the rest of the interview here.
Thanks to Isabella for the tip.
(SOURCE: HPANA)
Steve Kloves Speaks to the LA Times
A great new interview with the man who turned the book into a movie gives insight on how and why scenes were cut from Goblet of Fire:
'Harry Potter' plots are so torturous to convey to the screen," he says. "Jo has created such a vivid world that you don't want to leave anything out. But you have to. And it's hard." So after spending almost two years on "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," which opened Friday, Steve Kloves did The Unthinkable.
He said "no" to Harry Potter.
"[Goblet of Fire] was very difficult because it was my favorite," Kloves says. "Which always means you have to proceed carefully. And in it the wizard world gets larger — which is great, I loved the way Jo stretched things out. But I still had the same canvas. It couldn't be a four-hour movie." Scheduling issues also interfered — director Mike Newell wasn't available in the beginning stages, which made things a bit difficult. Kloves loved working with Newell, who he found "just as invested in the characters as I am," but still there were many changes even after the final script had been approved.
Thanks to Ariella for the link!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
'Harry Potter' plots are so torturous to convey to the screen," he says. "Jo has created such a vivid world that you don't want to leave anything out. But you have to. And it's hard." So after spending almost two years on "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," which opened Friday, Steve Kloves did The Unthinkable.
He said "no" to Harry Potter.
"[Goblet of Fire] was very difficult because it was my favorite," Kloves says. "Which always means you have to proceed carefully. And in it the wizard world gets larger — which is great, I loved the way Jo stretched things out. But I still had the same canvas. It couldn't be a four-hour movie." Scheduling issues also interfered — director Mike Newell wasn't available in the beginning stages, which made things a bit difficult. Kloves loved working with Newell, who he found "just as invested in the characters as I am," but still there were many changes even after the final script had been approved.
Thanks to Ariella for the link!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Goblet of Fire DVD on April 4, 2006?
It has only been a few days since the US/UK release, but already we're hearing rumors of Goblet's release on DVD. According to VideoETA.com, the film is set to hit stores on April 4th, 2006. This has not yet been confirmed by Warner Bros, but as soon as we hear more, we will bring it to you. Thanks to everyone who emailed!
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Potter is Biggest Ever UK Opening
Harry Potter and the Goblet of the Fire has broken UK box office records, according to the studio that made the film, Warner Brothers.
They said more than £14.9m of tickets were sold in the UK in the first three days of it hitting cinemas.
That's the biggest ever opening weekend for a film in the UK, as well as the biggest takings ever for a Friday, a Saturday and a Sunday.
Goblet of Fire has been a worldwide hit too, making $181.4m (£105.3m).
Early figures suggest $101.4m (£60m) of those tickets have been snapped up in the US, which would make it the fourth biggest ever opening there. It's sold all those tickets despite having a having a slightly older rating than the others; 12a in the UK and PG-13 in the US.
The record for the first three days in cinemas in the US is held by Spider-Man which opened with $115 million in 2002.
Star Wars: Episode III: Revenge of the Sith began with $108.4 million in 2005, just ahead of Shrek 2 with $108 million in 2004.
(SOURCE: CBBC NEWSROUND)
They said more than £14.9m of tickets were sold in the UK in the first three days of it hitting cinemas.
That's the biggest ever opening weekend for a film in the UK, as well as the biggest takings ever for a Friday, a Saturday and a Sunday.
Goblet of Fire has been a worldwide hit too, making $181.4m (£105.3m).
Early figures suggest $101.4m (£60m) of those tickets have been snapped up in the US, which would make it the fourth biggest ever opening there. It's sold all those tickets despite having a having a slightly older rating than the others; 12a in the UK and PG-13 in the US.
The record for the first three days in cinemas in the US is held by Spider-Man which opened with $115 million in 2002.
Star Wars: Episode III: Revenge of the Sith began with $108.4 million in 2005, just ahead of Shrek 2 with $108 million in 2004.
(SOURCE: CBBC NEWSROUND)
Harry Potter's 'Goblet' Overflows at Box Office
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Harry Potter cast a spell over moviegoers during the weekend, as the fourth film in the fantasy series about a young wizard smashed sales records around the world.
"Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" sold an estimated $181.4 million worth of tickets, including $101.4 million in North America, where it easily eclipsed the first three films and ranks as the fourth-largest opening ever, distributor Warner Bros. Pictures said on Sunday.
It also enjoyed a wide lead over the No. 2 film in North America, the Johnny Cash biopic, "Walk the Line," which rang up a better-than-expected $22.4 million in its first three days.
"Potter's" foreign haul of $80 million was led by Britain with $24.6 million, a new record for a three-day opening; Germany with $19.8 million, a new record for a four-day opening; and Mexico with $6.8 million, the third-best opening.
The film was No. 1 in all 19 foreign territories where it opened, the Time Warner Inc.-owned studio said. It adds such markets as Japan, Italy and Spain next weekend, with France and Australia in the first week of December.
DARK THRILLS
The $130 million movie, based on the book by British author J.K. Rowling, stars 16-year-old Daniel Radcliffe in the title role, an orphan who confronts death and puberty at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. New additions to the cast included Ralph Fiennes as the evil Lord Voldemort, who helped give the film a darker tone than its predecessors.
Not coincidentally, the film was rated in the United States as PG-13 for "sequences of fantasy violence and frightening images," while the first three carried a milder PG rating. Exit polling showed that more adults turned up than usual, indicating that the franchise's appeal is spreading beyond families, said Dan Fellman, president of domestic theatrical distribution at Warner Bros.
The new film was directed by Mike Newell, best known for the 1994 comedy "Four Weddings and a Funeral," and the first Englishman to take the helm of the series.
In North America, the three-day haul set a new record for the lucrative franchise, surpassing the $93.7 million opening of 2004's "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." However, that film's $249.4 million total was the smallest of the three. The most successful was 2001's "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," which totaled $317.6 million. The 2002 film "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" grossed $262 million.
The record for a three-day opening is held by "Spider-Man," which bowed with $115 million in 2002. "Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith" began with $108.4 million earlier this year, just ahead of "Shrek 2" with $108 million in 2004.
(SOURCE: YAHOO! NEWS)
"Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" sold an estimated $181.4 million worth of tickets, including $101.4 million in North America, where it easily eclipsed the first three films and ranks as the fourth-largest opening ever, distributor Warner Bros. Pictures said on Sunday.
It also enjoyed a wide lead over the No. 2 film in North America, the Johnny Cash biopic, "Walk the Line," which rang up a better-than-expected $22.4 million in its first three days.
"Potter's" foreign haul of $80 million was led by Britain with $24.6 million, a new record for a three-day opening; Germany with $19.8 million, a new record for a four-day opening; and Mexico with $6.8 million, the third-best opening.
The film was No. 1 in all 19 foreign territories where it opened, the Time Warner Inc.-owned studio said. It adds such markets as Japan, Italy and Spain next weekend, with France and Australia in the first week of December.
DARK THRILLS
The $130 million movie, based on the book by British author J.K. Rowling, stars 16-year-old Daniel Radcliffe in the title role, an orphan who confronts death and puberty at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. New additions to the cast included Ralph Fiennes as the evil Lord Voldemort, who helped give the film a darker tone than its predecessors.
Not coincidentally, the film was rated in the United States as PG-13 for "sequences of fantasy violence and frightening images," while the first three carried a milder PG rating. Exit polling showed that more adults turned up than usual, indicating that the franchise's appeal is spreading beyond families, said Dan Fellman, president of domestic theatrical distribution at Warner Bros.
The new film was directed by Mike Newell, best known for the 1994 comedy "Four Weddings and a Funeral," and the first Englishman to take the helm of the series.
In North America, the three-day haul set a new record for the lucrative franchise, surpassing the $93.7 million opening of 2004's "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." However, that film's $249.4 million total was the smallest of the three. The most successful was 2001's "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," which totaled $317.6 million. The 2002 film "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" grossed $262 million.
The record for a three-day opening is held by "Spider-Man," which bowed with $115 million in 2002. "Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith" began with $108.4 million earlier this year, just ahead of "Shrek 2" with $108 million in 2004.
(SOURCE: YAHOO! NEWS)
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Sports Illustrated's Pre-QWC Coverage
Sports Illustrated.com is running a column featuring pre-match analysis of the "upcoming" 422nd Quidditch World Cup, in which Ireland will face off against Bulgaria. The two teams' strengths and weaknesses are discussed, and the coaches' styles are compared. Columnist Jonah Freedman goes out on a limb and predicts the final score of the game -- no word on whether this will affect the odds, but Ludo Bagman might want to take note.Thanks, James_and_Lily!
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
The Return of R.A.B.?
WARNING! THIS STORY CONTAINS SPOILER INFORMATION FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE. IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THE BOOK, PLEASE DO NOT HIGHLIGHT THE STORY TEXT. FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE READ THE BOOK, HIGHLIGHT THE TEXT IN THE BLANK AREA BELOW TO READ THE STORY.
As many of you know, in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, we learned of a character called R.A.B. that played a key role involving a locket and Voldemort's Horcrux. There has been a great deal of speculation and reports about the possible identity of that character. Yesterday, the Dutch version of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince was released, and the identity of the character is translated as "R.A.Z." The name Sirius Black is translated as Sirius "Zwarts", with a 'Z.' Please note: While this is NOT positive confirmation of who the character is ( most are speculating Regulus Black), it certainly is intriguing. Let the discussions begin again! Thanks to the many readers who wrote in.
Update: This apparently is the same situation in the Norwegian edition of Half-Blood Prince, where his last name is translated as 'Svaart'.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
As many of you know, in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, we learned of a character called R.A.B. that played a key role involving a locket and Voldemort's Horcrux. There has been a great deal of speculation and reports about the possible identity of that character. Yesterday, the Dutch version of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince was released, and the identity of the character is translated as "R.A.Z." The name Sirius Black is translated as Sirius "Zwarts", with a 'Z.' Please note: While this is NOT positive confirmation of who the character is ( most are speculating Regulus Black), it certainly is intriguing. Let the discussions begin again! Thanks to the many readers who wrote in.
Update: This apparently is the same situation in the Norwegian edition of Half-Blood Prince, where his last name is translated as 'Svaart'.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
Friday, November 18, 2005
Fans Pack Theaters for Harry Potter Movie
LOS ANGELES - Fans are packing theaters for the new Harry Potter movie.
The fourth film in the series is called "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" and it's had an early sendoff with special midnight showings in select theaters around the country.
Fandango, the nation's largest movie ticketing service, says the new PG-rated episode has accounted for more than 90 percent of its advance ticket sales this week, making it the fastest selling of the Potter flicks.
It's also the best draw since "Star Wars: Episode Three-Revenge of the Sith" opened this summer.
And the new Potter flick's been getting good reviews, to boot. Fandango's CEO says the buzz about the fourth Potter film has been "tremendous."
(SOURCE: YAHOO! NEWS)
The fourth film in the series is called "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" and it's had an early sendoff with special midnight showings in select theaters around the country.
Fandango, the nation's largest movie ticketing service, says the new PG-rated episode has accounted for more than 90 percent of its advance ticket sales this week, making it the fastest selling of the Potter flicks.
It's also the best draw since "Star Wars: Episode Three-Revenge of the Sith" opened this summer.
And the new Potter flick's been getting good reviews, to boot. Fandango's CEO says the buzz about the fourth Potter film has been "tremendous."
(SOURCE: YAHOO! NEWS)
Hogwarts Huge in Any Language: Harry's Holy Grail to be 'Goblet'
Variety has an article about how this will be Harry's weekend. Here's a taste:
This weekend it's Harry's world. Everyone else just lives in it.
With tracking through the roof and only Fox's adult-oriented "Walk the Line" daring to open against it, Warner Bros.' "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" looks set to at least match the performance of its three predecessors -- which all opened to around $90 million -- as it bows on 3,858 screens.
"Goblet" is also launching at 5,900 engagements in 19 foreign markets during the frame, with the key openings in the U.K., Germany and Mexico. Other significant markets include Austria, China, Scandinavia, Switzerland, Taiwan and Thailand.
Click here to read the entire article.
(SOURCE: VARIETY)
This weekend it's Harry's world. Everyone else just lives in it.
With tracking through the roof and only Fox's adult-oriented "Walk the Line" daring to open against it, Warner Bros.' "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" looks set to at least match the performance of its three predecessors -- which all opened to around $90 million -- as it bows on 3,858 screens.
"Goblet" is also launching at 5,900 engagements in 19 foreign markets during the frame, with the key openings in the U.K., Germany and Mexico. Other significant markets include Austria, China, Scandinavia, Switzerland, Taiwan and Thailand.
Click here to read the entire article.
(SOURCE: VARIETY)
All Hail King 'Harry' the Fourth
With the fourth "Harry Potter" film bowing Friday in 3,858 theaters, the beloved franchise doesn't show any sign of losing momentum. Energized with an older-skewing PG-13 rating and excellent reviews, Warner Bros. Pictures' "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" is set to open in the same phenomenal range as its predecessors. From director Mike Newell, the film is sure to decimate everything in its path, including the lackluster "Zathura" from Sony Pictures and Walt Disney Pictures' "Chicken Little," which has enjoyed two "Potter"-free weeks atop the boxoffice. Meanwhile, 20th Century Fox will try its luck with the Johnny Cash biopic "Walk the Line," which is bowing in 2,961 theaters.
(SOURCE: THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER)
(SOURCE: THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER)
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Severus Snape: One Teacher's Hero
MSNBC has an article by a teacher who wishes she could be more like Professor Snape in the Harry Potter movies. Here's a sample:
I wish I could handle the situation more like Severus Snape might. There would be none of this smiley-smiley “I’ve enjoyed teaching all of you” business for Snape, who would deliver unto all one final glare before retiring to his dungeon for a relaxing evening of poking baby kittens with a stick.
To read the rest of the article, click here.
(SOURCE: MSNBC)
I wish I could handle the situation more like Severus Snape might. There would be none of this smiley-smiley “I’ve enjoyed teaching all of you” business for Snape, who would deliver unto all one final glare before retiring to his dungeon for a relaxing evening of poking baby kittens with a stick.
To read the rest of the article, click here.
(SOURCE: MSNBC)
MSNBC Profile of Mike Newell
A profile of Gof Director Mike Newell on MSNBC gives insight into his approach to making the film, not only in terms of adapting the book, but in learning to embrace CGI technology as well.
"The first British director to oversee a "Harry Potter" film, Newell said he fought hard to keep the extravagant computer-generated imagery in its place, namely, in service of the story and not just a collection of pretty pictures for their own sake. . . [CGI is] a technique which I have now really learned and had an enormously steep learning curve and fantastic on-the-job training. I'm kind of a convert. I don't want to do it all like that, but I think simply it's a technique like any other. It's like having lights to shoot at night."
The article also contains interviews with Daniel Radcliffe and Brendan Gleeson, in which they discuss Newell's working relationship with the younger actors. Check it out here.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
"The first British director to oversee a "Harry Potter" film, Newell said he fought hard to keep the extravagant computer-generated imagery in its place, namely, in service of the story and not just a collection of pretty pictures for their own sake. . . [CGI is] a technique which I have now really learned and had an enormously steep learning curve and fantastic on-the-job training. I'm kind of a convert. I don't want to do it all like that, but I think simply it's a technique like any other. It's like having lights to shoot at night."
The article also contains interviews with Daniel Radcliffe and Brendan Gleeson, in which they discuss Newell's working relationship with the younger actors. Check it out here.
(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)
JK Rowling Nominated for TIME's Person of the Year
TIME Magazine has asked visitors to start voting on who they think should be featured as their Person of the Year, and one person under consideration is JK Rowling. Click here to vote!
The Potter author is up against U2 lead singer Bono, Steve Jobs, The Google Guys, and Mother Nature herself in relation to Hurricane Katrina. TIME's choice will be revealed on December 18th. Thanks to Leaky for the tip.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
The Potter author is up against U2 lead singer Bono, Steve Jobs, The Google Guys, and Mother Nature herself in relation to Hurricane Katrina. TIME's choice will be revealed on December 18th. Thanks to Leaky for the tip.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Empire Talks to Michael Gambon
Empire magazine released an interview with everybody's favorite Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, played by Michael Gambon. When asked what makes Dumbledore the greatest wizard of all time, Gambon replied:
"I have no idea. I learn the lines that JK Rowling or whoever writes them, and say them. There’s no subtext in Harry Potter really; it’s all magic, anything can happen."
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
"I have no idea. I learn the lines that JK Rowling or whoever writes them, and say them. There’s no subtext in Harry Potter really; it’s all magic, anything can happen."
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
Dan Discusses 'December Boys' Role and "Near Death" Experience
The Daily Record has published a nice, long interview with Dan where he talks about his role in December Boys, which starts filming at the end of this year in Australia.
A separate article in the Daily Record tells a story of how Dan gave everyone a good scare while filming underwater scenes in the huge tank.
Additionally, in what appears to be a series of interviews, Empire Magazine has now released one with Katie Leung, the Cho Chang actress.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
A separate article in the Daily Record tells a story of how Dan gave everyone a good scare while filming underwater scenes in the huge tank.
Additionally, in what appears to be a series of interviews, Empire Magazine has now released one with Katie Leung, the Cho Chang actress.
(SOURCE: MUGGLE NET)
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