JKR Updates Website: Third Book Seven Title Being Considered; Spell Definitions Clarified

JKRowling.com has been updated! In her new diary entry, Jo says that she is now considering a THIRD title for book seven, but that this doesn't concern her, as some of the previous books have had several titles in the offing before one was settled on. Quotage:

"Title three currently ahead by a short nose, or perhaps that should be a vowel and two consonants."

Jo also says that she has had "a great writing week" and talks about the satisfaction that brings:

I've just had a great writing week. There are few feelings more joyous than reading back over the week's work and thinking 'that's not bad at all'', as opposed to the all-too-frequent, 'it's rubbish, I've wasted a week and I'll have to re-write the lot.' And if you think that's an exaggeration or false modesty, you are very, very wrong. It's perfectly possible to put in eight hour days and have nothing to show for them but a single idea that, if reworked completely, might be passable.

Finally, Jo congratulates the latest group of W.O.M.B.A.T. test-takers, saying, "You're getting pretty good."

Happy Halloween Everyone!

UPDATE: Eagle-eyed readers have reminded us that there is another update on Jo's site -- the "Extras" section now contains an entry differentiating spells, charms, hexes and curses. Thanks, everyone!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Yates Comments on 'Phoenix' Running Time

Some news about Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix has appeared in the latest edition of Empire magazine. In the article, director David Yates states that he has filmed "a movie that's probably over three hours, so I'll have to lose 45 minutes in the edit."

David Heyman mentions a call from JKRowling on the casting of Luna Lovegood and Imelda Stauton states that she is amazed that it took so long for her to be cast in the franchise.

You can see scans of the article here.

(SOURCE: HPANA)

BIFA News for Frances de la Tour, Jason Isaacs

Actress Frances de la Tour (Madame Maxime) has been nominated as "Best Actress" for her role in the film "The History Boys" at the British Independent Film Awards. Readers will remember that earlier this year, Ms. de la Tour won the Tony Award for her performance in the theatrical production of The History Boys.

In a related note, the BIFAs will present a special Jury Prize given by a select panel. This panel, which features various actors and celebrities, will include actor Jason Isaacs who will be seen again in the role of Lucius Malfoy in the upcoming Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

The BIFA awards will be presented on November 29, in London, England. Congratulations Frances!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Strike! Rupert Grint Gives New Video Interview in Dallas

Continuing the media blitz in Dallas, Texas to promote his current film "Driving Lessons," Rupert Grint has appeared in another new video interview, this time featuring the actor...bowling. While this interview with the Star-Telegram does not really contain much new information (aside from his enjoyment of bowling), Rupert does reiterate that he will be back in the role of Ron Weasley for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and the film version of Book Seven. Noting he is due back in England soon to finish filming on OotP, Rupert says that he may take on some smaller budget films in between filming the Potter movies. To watch this fun new video with Rupert, at this link, click under the photo of Rupert where it says "video."

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Helena Bonham Carter Remarks on Bad Bella

The Daily Record has a new interview with actress Helena Bonham Carter where she briefly mentions her part in the upcoming Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. While most of the article focuses on her past career, Ms. Bonham Carter refers to the new Potter movie, calling author J.K. Rowling "a genius." The actress also goes on to refer to her new role as the deatheater Bellatrix Lestrange who causes so much havoc at the Ministry of Magic.

"And Bella," says Helena with undisguised delight, "is a very bad, bad, bad witch."

Indeed!

(SOURCE: THE LEAKY CAULDRON)

Win Tickets to the U.S. Premiere of 'OotP' Courtesy of HBO

American fans of Harry Potter have a chance to win 4 tickets to the U.S. premiere of Order of the Phoenix next year courtesy of the cable station HBO. Just go here and fill in the required information. The contest runs till the end of December and entries are limited to one per person, per day. You must be a U.S. resident who is 18 years of age or older and the winners will be announced on January 10, 2007. Good luck everyone.

First prize:
A 3-day/2-night trip for winner and 3 guests to attend the premiere of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Prize includes round-trip coach air transportation from major airport nearest winner's home, hotel accommodations (2 rooms, double occupancy), ground transportation to/from gateway airport nearest winner's home, to/from hotel and to/from premiere event and $500 spending money for winner.

Additional prizes include a Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire gift set; a Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire DVD; a Harry Potter t-shirt; a Harry Potter Goblet of Fire.

Please note that the date, time or location for the U.S. premiere has not been announced and if you are lucky enough to win please drop us a line.

(SOURCE: HPANA)