Last month marked 20 years since the initial release of the film production of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The franchise’s reach and the number of fans is still as vast as it was at its height two decades ago; eight films later, millions of fans around the world celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary and their love of the film and characters.
To celebrate the milestone, HBO Max is reuniting big names from the cast including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, and other familiar faces for a one-off special marking two decades since the first film was released.
The teaser trailer for the reunion shows a copy of the Daily Prophet reading “Hogwarts welcomes back alumni!”, as well as stars such as Robbie Coltrane and Matthew Lewis receiving their Hogwarts letters before panning to the familiar scene of the Hogwarts Express – creating extreme anticipation for those familiar with the films and their actors.
Although fans everywhere are excited to relive the much-loved magic of the Harry Potter universe, the reunion has not been without its controversy. HBO have chosen to not include JK Rowling, the author and creator of the series, in the show, following her backwards views on the trans community. Instead, the show will focus on the actors and directors of the films, moving away from JK Rowling and the successes of her books.
Despite the controversy and conflicting opinions surrounding it, I and so many others cannot wait to see the original cast back together and talking all things Harry Potter, 20 years later!
The reunion will be available to watch on the 1st January 2022.
Words by: Madeleine Rousell
Edited by: Tamikka Reid