HP Film Celebration: Glimpse at the Heart of Potter

I know not everyone will want to read a complete run through of events at the Harry Potter Film Celebration this past weekend, so I want to begin with what I saw at the heart of it all: a true love and respect for this series (not just as books or movies but a creative, inspiring force) and everyone involved with it, from Jo herself to the stars to the fans. Universal and Warner Brothers worked together to put on a top notch event that was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the serious Potter lover, and assemble a staff that was helpful, kind, and consistently went above and beyond the call of duty. Every member of the cast was warm, modest, and appreciative, so appreciative of Potter, its writer, and its supporters. There was no air of superiority, nor any mockery of fans’ enthusiasm amid park or event staff, or the filmmakers or actors. In fact, they thanked us numerous times. In turn, whenever a cast or crew member made an appearance, signed an autograph, or answered a question, they too were thanked. It was evident the entire weekend that Potter was significant on multiple levels to everyone present, that it was more than just a book and films series.

I made friends in every line I stood in and every event I attended. Whenever I had a question or concern, I could talk to the staff on site and have it addressed immediately. I was able to speak with and get the autograph of almost every cast and crew member in attendance. Almost everyone, from fan to VIP, associated Potter with fond memories — from the birth of children to bonding moments between parent and child while reading them at night to the stars growing up on set. Wonderfully, Warner Brothers, Universal, the filmmakers, and actors all recognized the importance of this series and made every effort to put on the best, most special and magical event possible to commemorate the release of the final film on BluRay. It wasn’t a send-off to Harry, just the coming of a new chapter in Potter’s journey, and I’m more grateful than ever to be a part of it.

met Rupert Grint today

at our private autograph session, as well as James and Oliver Phelps, and Mark Williams — we weren’t allowed pictures, but I’ll post photos of the signed stuff soon!