Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter

Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter has released the names of the actors and crew who will be attending the grand opening celebration set to take place on Saturday, March 31, 2012.









They are:
Rupert Grint
Tom Felton
Bonnie Wright
Evanna Lynch
Warwick Davis
David Thewlis
Helen McCrory
George Harris
Nick Moran
Natalia Tena
David Bradley
David Heyman (producer)
David Barron (producer)
David Yates (director)
Alfonso Cuaron (director)
Mike Newell (director)

Today SnitchSeeker got an early peek at the studio tour – be sure and check our Twitter for some cool pics – and we will have our report up shortly. We will also be live on the red carpet at Leavesden Studios next week to cover the grand opening.

(SOURCE: SnitchSeeker)

Harry Potter Wizard's Collection Due for Release in September

The 31-disc Harry Potter Wizard's Collection Blu-ray/DVD box set will be released on Sept. 7 in the U.S. and Sept. 10 in the U.K., it's been announced.

This definitive collection will include all eight Harry Potter films, plus over four hours of never-before-seen footage. The massive box set weighs an impressive 19 pounds, and will also come with "artistic and authentic film memorabilia."

The official Harry Potter website has been updated to reflect the impending release of the Wizard's Collection. An interactive wand gesture game has been added to the site so fans can unlock exclusive previews of the bonus material every week.

This week, Yahoo! has the first exclusive preview which shows a young Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley) talking about a rather "unpretty picture" he drew of Alan Rickman (Severus Snape). The clip then shows a present-day Grint and Rickman talking about the drawing. Watch it below!

Harry Potter Wizard's Collection is available for pre-order through Amazon.com for $349. The U.K. edition is priced at £259.99.

New Pictures of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour

We now have some new pictures of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The images can be seen here in our galleries and feature a look at Dumbledore's office, the Potions classroom, the Gryffindor dorm rooms, Diagon Alley, the Great Hall, the Burrow, and more. Enjoy!

Many thanks to SnitchSeeker. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour will open on March 31st.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Platform 9 3/4 Gets Permanent Location at King's Cross Station

The Platform 9 3/4 display at King's Cross in London finally has a permanent location after being shuffled around for several years while the station underwent major renovations.

According to the Huffington Post, the popular pilgrimage site for Harry Potter fans - which features a sign for the platform and a trolly seemingly going through the wall - will now be located in the Western Departures Concourse. A map of the station, with Platform 9 3/4 clearly marked, can be seen here. The new concourse will be open for travelers (and Potter fans!) beginning March 19.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Happy Birthday Harry and J. K. Rowling

As it is now July 31st in the UK, it is the day where we send our birthday wishes to author J. K. Rowling and her literary creation, Harry Potter.  Please join us at Leaky in wishing these two remarkable people a happy, wonderful and, above all, fun birthday.  Cheers to you, Jo and Harry.  And thank you.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Happy Birthday, Neville Longbottom!

As per J.K. Rowling's calendar, today marks the 31st birthday of Neville Longbottom. Join us in raising a mug of butterbeer to this brave Gryffindor and saying Happy Birthday, Neville!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Pottermore's Magical Quill Challenge Begins July 31

The Pottermore Insider Blog and website have been updated this blog post and link, revealing more about J. K. Rowling's latest project:

The eagle-eyed amongst you may have spotted the hidden link in our 'You ask, we answer' blog post from 19 July, which took you to an interview J.K. Rowling gave in 2000.

In the interview was some interesting information about a Magical Quill, located in Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The Magical Quill detects the birth of a magical child and writes their name down in a large book. 

Every year, Professor McGonagall checks the book and sends owls to the children who are turning eleven, to inform themthat they have a place at Hogwarts. Each day for seven days, from 31 July to 6 August, we will be placing a clue on the Pottermore homepage to help you locate The Magical Quill. If you find it, you'll have the chance to gain early access to Pottermore.

There will be a new clue every day, and each clue will relate to a different book in the Harry Potter series. On Day 1 the clue will relate to Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, on Day 2 the clue will relate to Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and so forth. The clues will also vary in difficulty. On Days 1-3 the clues will be harder, and on Days 4-7 the clues will be easier.

To find The Magical Quill, you need to solve the clue and add the answer to the end of the web address. This will lead you to a website where The Magical Quill will be located while early access places are available. The Magical Quill's location will change every day.

Example

Clue: How many books are there in the Harry Potter series? Multiply this number by 10.

Answer: 70

Add this number to the end of the website address. (In this case it would be http://quill.pottermore.com/70)

Hit 'Return' to go to the website where The Magical Quill is located.

Once you have found The Magical Quill, you will be redirected to Pottermore.com. If the registration process is still open for that day, you will be able to submit your details to register to access Pottermore early.

It's important to note that finding The Magical Quill does not guarantee you access to registration, as registration will only remain openwhile the early access places allocated for the relevant day, between 31 July to 6 August, are available.

Don't worry if you don’t manage to register first time. There will be plenty of opportunities to find The Magical Quill as we will be revealing a new clue each day from 31 July to 6 August. For those who miss out on earlyaccess to Pottermore, please note the site will be open to all from October. Keep visiting Pottermore to find out when registration commences.

We won't be telling you when a clue goes live, so you'll need to keep a careful eye on Pottermore.com over the seven-day period. However, we will let you know, via Pottermore.com and the Insider, when registration for a particular day has come to an end.

Finally, please note that we will not be enabling early access to the site straight away. Once The Magical Quill challenge is over, we will send successful early access registrants a Welcome email, letting them know whenthey will be able to access Pottermore. We won’t be able to let everyone into the Beta site at the same time, so please be patient with us. You may have to wait a few weeks for your Welcome email to arrive.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Tom Felton Attends Premiere of His New Film, "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," Rupert Grint Shows His Support

Actor Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) attended the Hollywood premiere of his new film, "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" on Thursday evening at Grauman's Chinese Theatre.

Fellow Potter co-star Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley) also happened to be in town and stopped by the premiere to show his support for his friend wearing a homemade "I [heart] Tom Felton" t-shirt. Nice to see the Weasley/Malfoy rivalry was left on the big screen!

Images of the two actors at the premiere can be seen in the Leaky galleries.

Earlier this week, Felton also stopped by the late night talk show Conan to talk some more about "Deathly Hallows: Part 2." Host Conan O'Brien took the opportunity to bring up some Draco/Harry fan art, taking Felton by surprise. Video of his appearance can be seen at this link.

"Rise of the Planet of the Apes" arrives in theaters on August 5, 2011.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Alan Rickman Discusses the 'Potter' Series and Snape's Twisting Path

In a new interview with RTE, Alan Rickman discusses his years spent filming the 'Harry Potter' series and his pure admiration for the storytelling of J.K. Rowling.

On understanding the character of Severus Snape as the series moved on, he stated:

"...you're never quite sure what the agendas are, so there's as big a question mark over my head as I'm reading it and playing it as there is over everybody else's, until it's resolved. You know that the stakes are always very high for him, whatever the outcome proves to be."

On the last film's themes and how they resonate, he stated:

"The last film is about resolution and new beginnings. It's a springboard to the real future of these three young people and the lives they're going to lead. So, yeah, words like redemption and loyalty and what do you believe in and what are your values, they're all like great neon signs over their heads as they send their kids off to Hogwarts."

Read the entire interview right here.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2' Hits $1 Billion in Global Box Office

It's the first in the franchise to pass the milestone, doing so only two weeks after its release.

In a fitting farewell to one of the most magical film series in Hollywood history, Warner Bros.’ Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 is the first film in the franchise to reach the $1 billion mark worldwide.

Deathly Hallows 2 will cross the milestone on Saturday, having grossed $296 million domestically and $630 million overseas through Thursday for a global total of $926 million. Another blockbuster weekend at the multiplex is forecast, allowing the film to easily pass the vaunted $1 billion mark.

The movie, benefiting from being released in 3D, is racing past the milestone in about two weeks, a remarkable achievement. Until now, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone overseas) was the top grossing pic in the franchise, having grossed $974.8 million globally in 2001-02.

The Harry Potter franchise has always been immensely successful internationally, with every title in the series earning substantially more offshore. So far, 68 percent of Deathly Hallows Part 2’s gross has been earned at the international box office, fueled by standout performances in the U.K., Japan, Australia and Germany.

By the end of this weekend, Deathly Hallows Part 2 should surpass Sorcerer’s Stone's domestic gross of $317 million, the best in the series. It also will have surpassed the $659 million earned last year internationally by Deathly Hallows Part 1.

Deathly Hallows Part 2 becomes the 9th movie in history to gross north of $1 billion worldwide, a club that includes Warners’ The Dark Knight ($1 billion), Disney’s Alice in Wonderland ($1.02 billion) and Disney’s 2011 summer tentpole Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides ($1.03 billion).

Thanks to our Hogwarts mate Sylvia for the heads up on this story!

(SOURCE: THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER)

Daniel Radcliffe Records Video Message for Military Families As Part of Joining Forces Campaign

First Lady Michelle Obama recently enlisted the help of actor Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) to thank military families who were invited to a special screening of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2."

The screening was part of Joining Forces, "a national initiative that gives our service members and their families the opportunities and support they have earned."

A video of Mrs. Obama at the Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana's Summer Youth Camp and Mr. Radcliffe's accompanying video message was released by the White House and can be seen below.






A transcript of Mr. Radcliffe's speech:

Hi there everybody at the Naval Air Station Oceana. I'm Daniel Radcliffe and I'm thrilled to be here to introduce part of the screening for "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" in conjunction with Mrs. Obama's Joining Forces campaign. I just want to say that I hope you enjoy the film. I've a few friends in various branches of the British military so I know how hard you guys work and the tremendous courage it takes to do what you do, and the commitment you've shown to your country and the discipline in your lives. It's amazing. Though I play a hero on screen, there is very little heroic about me in real life, and you guys, I will leave that all to you. Thank you very very much, and I hope you enjoy the film.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Total Film's 50 Greatest 'Potter' Characters: Who is Yours?

With the final film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows -Part 2 in theaters now, Total Film released their top 50 characters from the entire 'Harry Potter' series. With so many great characters created by J.K. Rowling, it is very difficult to come up with a complete list without feeling that someone or something got left out.

The list includes the likes of Firenze (50), Nagini (41), Filch (32), Umbridge (15), and Hermione (5) to name a few. Do you think you know who their number one character is? Check them all out here.

Headmistress Denice: Who are your favorite HP characters? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

'Harry Potter' Hits $900M Worldwide in Record Time

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 crossed the $900 million worldwide mark on Wednesday, its 15th day in release. That made Harry's last stand the fastest movie ever to reach that milestone, breaking Avatar's 18-day record.

On Wednesday, Deathly Hallows Part 2 brought in $24.7 million worldwide ($5.2 million from domestic and $19.5 million from foreign), lifting its total to $906.8 million. It climbed to 19th place on the all-time chart, jumping past Goblet of Fire's $896.9 million final haul.

The first Harry Potter, Sorcerer's Stone, still ranks as the top-grossing with $974.8 million, while only Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and Transformers: Dark of the Moon slot higher for 2011 with $1.03 billion and $926.1 million, respectively. Deathly Hallows Part 2 is on course to join the $1 billion club by early next week.

Domestic alone, Deathly Hallows Part 2's business was down 58 percent from last Wednesday to $5.2 million, falling harder but grossing more than the previous July Potters, Half-Blood Prince and Order of the Phoenix, at the same point. With a $291.7 million tally in 13 days, it also edged out the final gross of Goblet of Fire ($290 million) and will eclipse Order of the Phoenix and Deathly Hallows Part 1 on Thursday (though it will still rank last in estimated attendance).

Captain America: The First Avenger topped the Wednesday domestic box office with $5.8 million. With an $86.4 million tally in six days, the Marvel Comics adaptation extended its lead over the summer's other superhero movies through day six. Thor had $80.7 million by day six, and its latest total was $180.3 million.

Two new 'Deathly Hallows - Part 2' Posters Tout Positive Film Reviews

In France at least, Warner Brothers has released two new posters for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2 which include great new stills from the film:

- Battle-stricken Ron and Hermione

- Battle-stricken Harry

The posters included short reviews of the film (in French).

We can definitely imagine seeing these images in America when WB begins to push the film for Oscar nominations.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

Dan Radcliffe Interviewed by GQ

We now have scans of a new interview with Dan Radcliffe (Harry Potter) featured in GQ magazine here in our galleries. This interesting interview spans Radcliffe's last few months on the set of "Deathly Hallows," to filming "The Woman in Black," to performing in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." Page one of the interview is here, page two is here, page three is here, and page four is here. There is some strong language in the article, so please be forewarned.

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Universal Orlando Announces 'A Celebration of the Harry Potter Films'

This November Universal is hosting a big three-day event in celebration of all eight Harry Potter films!  From the press release:

This special event will be hosted by Warner Bros. and will celebrate a decade of movie history by allowing fans to share their love for the Harry Potter films. The event will take place from Friday, November 11, to Sunday, November 13, at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

During this special event, guests can celebrate their favorite memories and stories of Harry Potter with filmmakers, cast members and fellow fans. While all theme park guests will be able to enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter during their visit, only a limited number of guests and those who buy special event packages will have access to exclusive benefits such as:

• A spectacular evening gala in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Autograph signings with stars from the Harry Potter films
• Q&A sessions with Harry Potter filmmakers and cast members, along with the creators of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Screenings of all eight Harry Potter films – including "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2" at the AMC Universal Cineplex 20 in Universal CityWalk. Access to the screenings can be added to the vacation packages for an additional fee.

Additional details can be read on Universal's website.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

'Harry Potter' Studio Tour to be Featured at Empire Presents BIG SCREEN

Over the past few months we've been telling you about the Warner Brothers Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter. It will afford you the opportunity to visit the actual sets in the Harry Potter films at the actual studio where they were shot!

More details about the Studio Tour will be revealed at Empire Presents BIG SCREEN in August:

Details for the UK's most highly anticipated visitor attraction will be revealed in a special live showcase at Empire Presents BIG SCREEN event on Sunday, 14th August at 16:30 (GMT) within indigO2 at London's The O2 and will be shared by special guests from the cast and crew from the most successful film series of all time, Harry Potter. The event will culminate with an exciting announcement that both film and Harry Potter fans will not want to miss.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

Happy 22nd Birthday to Dan Radcliffe

Twelve years ago, a young 10-year old actor was cast for the coveted role of the young boy wizard Harry Potter. Today that young man has turned 22, and has grown up in front of our eyes to become one of the finest actors of this generation.

On behalf of MuggleNet, and the fans of the 'Potter' series, we wish you a very Happy Birthday Dan! Thank you for everything, we look forward to watching you in the years ahead.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

'Harry Potter Page to Screen' Official Cover Released, Available for Pre-Order

Harper Collins has released the official cover for Harry Potter Page to Screen.

This book is a follow-up to Harry Potter: Film Wizardry and provides an in-depth look at the entire filmmaking process from Sorcerer's Stone through Deathly Hallows - Part 2.

It includes behind-the-scenes anecdotes, brand-new interviews with cast and crew, as well as hundreds of never-before-seen photos and concept art.

The book is now available for pre-order on Amazon and will be released October 25.

(SOURCE: MUGGLENET)

'Harry Potter' Becomes Top-Grossing Franchise

On Wednesday, Harry Potter edged out Star Wars to become the top-grossing franchise of all time. The eight Potter movies have accumulated $2.223 billion, compared to $2.218 billion for Star Wars. They're also the only two franchises to have crossed the $2 billion mark, though James Bond and Batman would join the party when adjusted for ticket price inflation

Star Wars still trumps Potter in terms of estimated attendance, more than doubling the wizard wunderkind. It even maintains most of that margin when its re-releases are factored out.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 pulled in $12.27 million on Wednesday, down 20 percent from Tuesday. That ranked as the 13th highest-grossing non-opening Wednesday ever. The first Transformers holds the non-opening Wednesday record with $29.1 million, while The Dark Knight made $18.4 million with a 12 percent Tuesday-to-Wednesday drop at the same point. Deathly Hallows Part 1, Goblet of Fire and Sorcerer's Stone all had higher grossing Wednesdays than Deathly Hallows Part 2, but each of those were buoyed by the Thanksgiving holiday.

With a $214.88 million tally, Deathly Hallows Part 2 slotted third among the top-grossing six-day openings, behind The Dark Knight's $222.15 million and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen's $214.93 million, but it's still the fastest-grossing Potter, topping Half-Blood Prince's $167.9 million six-day haul and ahead of any Twilight movie. Normalized for ticket price inflation, Deathly Hallows Part 2 would rank ninth on that chart.

Meanwhile, Harry Potter distributor Warner Bros. crossed the $1 billion mark for the year, marking the studio's 11th billion dollar year in a row. Currently, Warner ranks second to Paramount, but the studio was the top grosser of the past three years.

(SOURCE: BOX OFFICE MOJO)