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Harry Potter 20th anniversary: Gifts from Amazon, Williams Sonoma

By  in May 30th 2022   No Comment »
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Today marks a magical day in history, the 20th anniversary of the very first Harry Potter film which was released on November 16, 2001. Some know it as “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”, while others have come to know it as “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” depending on the viewing country. But no matter what title you regard it as, it’s a film that marked the beginning of an 8-film franchise, launching the careers of three young actors and bringing a beloved book to life. 

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Since that day 20 years ago, Harry Potter merchandise stores have opened up around the world, Universal Studios opened its doors to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and a spinoff of the series “The Cursed Child” even landed on Broadway. Though the books and films may have ended, Hogwarts has stood the test of time and proved that it will always be there to welcome you home. And that with the power of friendship, love, and courage, you can do just about anything.

If you’re a Potterhead celebrating this extraordinary occasion, here are 20 products that will turn any muggle day into a magical one. 

►Related: ‘Harry Potter: The Exhibition’ tickets are now on sale for Philadelphia premiere

►For subscribers: ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ turns 20: How well did our movie review age?

1. Delicate jewelry to express your love for the Wizarding World

Pandora and Alex Ani both have beautiful lines of Harry Potter-themed jewelry to spice up any outfit with subtle bling. If you’re looking to fill up a uniquely yours Pandora charm bracelet with the Hogwarts Express or a House Crest, look no further. If that’s not your thing, they also have necklace pendants and earrings. Alex Ani’s Harry Potter collection is filled with charm bangles and charm necklaces alike. You’ll find them decorated with quotes like the iconic “Turn to page 394” (you just read it in Snape’s voice, didn’t you?), Quidditch symbols and more.   

2.  A bag that combines Harry Potter and fashion

Vera Bradley recently launched a limited-edition collection of Forbidden Forest-themed bags and accessories decorated with the Whomping Willow and fan-favorite creatures like Buckbeak and Hedwig. From a large duffle bag perfect for travel to a conveniently compact crossbody bag, this collection can upgrade your daily routine and put a smile on your face while doing it. There’s even a PopSocket pop grip for your phone. Reviewers love the deep colors of this collection and the fact that all of the bags are made from recycled cotton. Not to mention they make the perfect gift for any Potterhead.

3. Lego sets to play out magical adventures

I’m just going to say it—you’re never too old for Harry Potter or Legos. Lego has Harry Potter sets ranging from a simple 4 Privet Drive to a complex Hogwarts Castle, and every character and creature in between. Reviewers love that these sets are not only a fun activity and a great way to pass time, but they look good enough to put on display in your home when you’re finished.

4. An Advent calendar to add a touch of magic to the holidays

The Harry Potter films (and books, ahem) took the holidays to a whole new level. From the Great Hall that had magically replenishing platters of food and snowflakes falling from the ceiling to opening presents around the fire in the cozy common room with friends, it made Christmas feel extra special. With a Harry Potter Advent calendar, you can experience some of that Christmas magic for yourself.

The Holiday Magic calendar from Walmart shows iconic movie moments each day of December and is filled with candy and fun surprises like paper ornaments. The Lego Advent calendar is filled with 24 days of Lego pieces like Hogwarts letters and Platform 9¾  that combine easily with any Lego set. If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, the luxe Advent calendar from Williams Sonoma is just the ticket. It’s filled with individually wrapped candies in a variety of flavors but, being crafted of wood, it can be filled and refilled with Bertie Botts Every Flavored Beans, chocolate frogs and more for years to come.

5. A cookbook to whip up iconic dishes for witches and wizards alike

The Harry Potter films had a way of making viewers hungry. Young witches and wizards would dine with one another in the Great Hall for elaborate holiday and celebratory feasts throughout the series. What was on the menu? A never-ending supply of meats, potatoes, pies, cakes and everything in between. This cookbook not only gives fans the opportunity to try their hand at making the magical treats featured in the books and movies, it also contains classic British recipes that any muggle would love.

Get The Unofficial Harry Potter Cookbook from Amazon for $9.99

6. A set of Harry Potter books to immerse yourself in every detail of the Wizarding World

First published in 1997, the Harry Potter series went on to sell over 500 million copies and was translated into over 80 languages. Though the films and the featured superstars do an excellent job portraying the exciting events in the life of Harry Potter, the books immerse readers in every single detail of the Wizarding World and allow one to connect to characters on a deeper level. Not to mention, they are a great alternative to screentime. If you’re more of an audiobook person, listen to the series narrated by Jim Dale on Audible. As a listener myself, I can confidently say his voice is tranquilizing and his impressions make the characters jump right off of the page. 

7. Apparel to show your house pride

It was 20 years ago that we were able to watch the magical Sorting Hat get placed upon the head of young Harry Potter, or Daniel Radcliffe, and sort him into the courageous Gryffindor house. Nowadays, you can see for yourself which Hogwarts house you belong in through Wizarding World. And once you do, you’ll want to show off your house pride immediately. Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Slytherin or Hufflepuff, you can find your colors and house crest at Macy’s. The large collection of apparel features hoodies, socks, T-shirts and more, all of which are machine-washable and printed with eco-friendly ink.

8. Games to experience the fun with others 

Part of the fun of Harry Potter is nerding out about your deep knowledge of all things Hogwarts, Harry Potter and more. Show it off with a game of Trivial Pursuit or Codenames. Reviewers love to stump the whole family. If you’re more of a casual browser of the Harry Potter films, you don’t need to know the movies too well to play Harry Potter-themed UNO or Clue. They’re just like regular UNO or Clue, but with magic (a.k.a. featuring Hogwarts colors and images of the movie characters). And if you haven’t had enough of puzzles over the past year and a half, well, there’s plenty of that, too. 

9. Comfortable jammies to doze off into the Wizarding World

The Harry Potter films turned what could only be described as dreams into reality. To celebrate appropriately, you’ll need some Hogwarts-worthy pajamas for the whole family. Snuggle up in these cute pajamas from Kohl’s with fits for all ages. If you’re looking for something more high-end, these ones from PB Teen are a bit on the pricier side, but they come in every house color and they’re sustainably sourced.

10. Decor to bring Hogwarts to your home

Bedsheets, candles, lamps, oh my! The home decor selection at PB Teen has everything you need to transform your space so you feel like you’re residing at Hogwarts. It has home accents that are not only chic but practical, too, like this gorgeous Hedwig round mirror. Add seasonal accessories to your home like customizable stockings or think more long-term with a golden snitch alarm clock to lose yourself in the Wizarding World daily. 

11. Gadgets to brew up some magic in the kitchen

You don’t need Professor Snape’s classroom in the dungeon to concoct some delicious treats or potions. All you need is Harry Potter-themed cooking tools from Williams Sonoma. Reviewers love the spatula in particular because it lasts for years so long as you don’t put it through the dishwasher frequently. The pancake molds are a hit because they’re easy to use, easy to store and make the cutest and most magical pancakes around. But don’t forget your apron. It makes a great gift with its high quality and bright colors.

12. A mystical mug to enhance your morning pick-me-up

This mug is something that will bring joy every time it gets used. It’s heat-activated to reveal a fun image, in this case, the Marauder’s Map, every time you put a hot beverage in it. And when the clock strikes 5, you can switch over to these delicately etched glasses featuring the snitch from Williams Sonoma. 

13. A water bottle to bring Hogwarts with you always 

You should always have a water bottle on you to stay hydrated throughout the day. Why not carry one that puts a smile on your face and takes your mind away to a magical world? When we tested water bottles for ourselves, we found S’well water bottles do a great job at keeping drinks cold or hot, they just can’t squeeze ice in very easily through the narrow mouth.

Get the Harry Potter Water Bottle from S’well starting at $19.99

14. A cozy blanket perfect for Harry Potter movie marathons

Winter, spring, rain or shine… it’s always the perfect time to watch the Harry Potter movies. If this sounds like you or the Potterhead in your life, you need this plush throw blanket from Vera Bradley. Reviewers love the high quality and beautiful designs. Not to mention, it’s super comfortable. The only other thing you’ll need while viewing is your wand to get into character, of course. 

15. All 8 Harry Potter films on HBO Max

The best way to celebrate 20 years of an epic film series is to have yourself a movie marathon to remind yourself why you fell in love with it in the first place. You can stream all eight Harry Potter films on HBO Max with a subscription starting at $9.99 a month. HBO Max is home to all current and former HBO shows (looking at you, “Game of Thrones”), as well as new HBO Max originals like “The Flight Attendant” and many more titles from Warner Media. 

If you can’t get enough of the magic, you can stream “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” and “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” on Amazon’s Prime Video to follow magizoologist Newt Scamander as he ventures through the wizarding world in the 1920s.

►More: ‘Harry Potter’ star Emma Watson celebrates first film’s 20th anniversary; HBO Max announces reunion

16. High-quality cookware inspired by Harry Potter

Your eyes don’t deceive you—Le Creuset launched a Harry Potter-inspired cookware collection. We tested the Dutch oven by Le Creuset and we can see why it is a beloved tool used by chefs. It made perfect meals in all of our tests. The only reason it wasn’t our number one choice? It was a little big to store in a tight kitchen. But honestly, who can argue with having more room for food? This collection comes with Dutch ovens, a tea kettle, plates… and they’re all decked out with golden snitches, The Deathly Hallow symbol, house colors and more.

Shop the Le Creuset x Harry Potter collection at Le Creuset 

17. A cookie cutter set for bakers of all ages to celebrate 

‘Tis the season for sweets, treats, and all things baking. If you’re ready to level up your cookie game this holiday season, you need this cookie cutter set. Even if you don’t make the prettiest cookies in the world, half the fun is just using the cookie cutters and decorating them. It comes complete with fun cutters in the shape of Hedwig and the Hogwarts Express, icing bags and tips—all you need is the actual ingredients. 

Get the Harry Potter Cookie Baking Kit from Williams Sonoma for $29.95

18. Sweets that are Dumbledore-approved 

Throughout the books and movies, Dumbledore constantly revealed his sweet tooth. His favorite sweets? Sherbet lemon hard candies. They’re good, but they’re not magical. Enter Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans, Chocolate Frogs and more to make you feel like you’re on the Hogwarts Express ordering from the trolly. If you don’t have time to make a trip to Hogsmeade to stock up, Amazon has got you covered. 

19. Ornaments to have a happy Christmas

Does your heart just melt at the thought of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson wishing each other a happy Christmas? Same. PB Teen has Harry Potter-themed ornaments to bring that warm melting feeling to your home this holiday season. From a colorful Hogwarts Express to a hand-painted golden castle, they add enchantment to any Christmas tree. 

20. A planner so efficient, you’ll feel like you’re using a Time Turner

Life can get crazy, a fact Hermione Granger is very familiar with. While she has a magical time-turner necklace to go back in time and work out the kinks in her schedule, we have to be a little more forward-thinking. This 2022 planner is just the ticket. Hedwig is front and center on the relaxing blue cover and the inside is filled with calendars, to-do lists and pages for bullet journaling. Suffice to say, Hermione Granger would approve.  

Get the Moleskine Limited Edition Harry Potter 12 Month 2022 Daily Planner from Amazon for $24.95

Don’t get thwarted by shipping delays or sold-out favorites this holiday season. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get shopping tips, deals, product reviews, gift guides and more.

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Scary Trailer for Indie Horror ‘Deinfluencer’ Criticizing Social Media

By  in May 30th 2022   No Comment »
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Imagine: Harry Potter and the Shining of the Sun

By  in May 30th 2022   No Comment »
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Commenting is available to  Sun Readers , Sun Members and Sun Founders only. Comments are reviewed and, in some cases, edited before posting. Chances of a comment being posted are increased if the comment is polite, accurate, grammatical, and substantive or newsworthy.

Film fan watches 1,000 movies in coronavirus lockdown

By  in May 30th 2022   No Comment »
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Phil Watts, from Somerset, crammed in 1,028 films after sometimes watching as many as seven in one day.

Proof sheets of the first ‘Harry Potter’ book are up for auction

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The 109 sheets are thought to be the only surviving galley proof of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The item is expected to sell for more than $25,000.

‘Jana Gana Mana’ movie review: Gets its politics right, not so much the execution

By  in May 29th 2022   No Comment »
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To make people question some of their deeply-rooted biases, no amount of speeches or hurling of facts and proofs at them can pay off at times. A better way to go about it might be to first appeal to their biases, and slowly start chipping it away from within. Filmmaker Dijo Jose Antony and screenwriter Sharis Mohammed go by this maxim in the film Jana Gana Mana.

In quite an interesting set-up, at the interval point, they get the audience to cheer for encounter killings — which is unfortunately quite popular in our society too — only to spend the next half showing why that whole idea is wrong. But, at least in cinema, people would like the rug being pulled from beneath their feet, which is why many ended up cheering both for the idea and the dismantling of it.

At the centre of the narrative is a University in Karnataka. The charred body of Saba (Mamta Mohandas), an outspoken professor who stands up against the administration for various issues concerning the students, is found near the highway, leading to major student protests. In scenes reminiscent of the real world, the police beat up the protesting students brutally. The trust in the police is abysmally low among the students when Sajjan Kumar (Suraj Venjaramoodu) takes charge of the investigation in a seemingly purposeful manner.

After a not so great debut in Queen, filmmaker Dijo Jose Antony widens the scale of his ambition in his sophomore effort. The contemporary debates in the country, around the growth of far right politics, which survives on constant stirring of the communal pot and dissemination of hate propaganda, must certainly have been playing in the screenwriter’s mind while writing the film.

But despite its right intent and partly interesting structure, the making is quite uneven. Much of the treatment is loud and over-dramatic, especially the court scenes in the latter half. While it meanders pointlessly in the initial campus scenes, too much is said in quite a few rushed sequences towards the end. Much of this has to do with the mystery around Prithviraj’s character, who re-appears only at the interval point, after an introduction in the prologue. The script also banks on all the incessant talking that this character does, not only to convey its political ideas, but also to reveal the twists in the tale.

Yet for all its cinematic flaws, the film does not hold anything back as far as the politics that it wants to speak. It raises uncomfortable debates on how those who raise questions are branded and targeted, how the media sets narratives at the behest of the establishment, how it plays into the inherent biases of the common people, and how the politics of identity is used to divide people for votes.

Jana Gana Mana is currently running in theatres

Virus deaths again on the rise across Aust

By  in May 29th 2022   No Comment »
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Elsewhere, almost 600,000 Victorians have lodged pandemic rebate claims for pottery classes, museum exhibitions, winery lunches and other events in the month since they were offered.

Sonic The Hedgehog 2 Movie Begins Streaming On Paramount+ May 24th

By  in May 29th 2022   No Comment »
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Update [Tue 24th May, 2022 00:55 BST]: As of May 24th in the US, the Sonic the Hedgehog 2 movie can be streamed on paramount+. Of course, you’ll need to have access to an account and an active

In addition to this, digital purchases elsewhere will also be made available. This will come with a new Sonic Movie 2 animated short titled ‘Sonic Drone Home’. Here’s a teaser via Tails’ Channel:

The Sonic 2 movie will follow with a 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and dvd release on 9th August (thanks, GoNintendo).

Original article [Thu 28th Apr, 2022 02:09 BST]: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 might have only just been released in cinemas, but it seems the movie could make its way across to paramount’s streaming service very soon.

According to the news website SEGAbits (via IGN), Sonic the Hedgehog’s second movie outing will reportedly be arriving on the streaming subscription service paramount+ next month on 24th May.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was released in cinemas in late March (in certain parts of the world) and debuted in the United States on 8th April. In the US, it’s now officially become the biggest video game movie opening ever – and is nearing $300 million at the international box office.

paramount and Sega also have plans to release a live-action Knuckles series starring Idris Elba via paramount+. If we hear any updates about Sonic 2’s paramount+ release date, we’ll let you know.

Vic pandemic recovery powers on

By  in May 29th 2022   No Comment »
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Elsewhere, almost 600,000 Victorians have lodged pandemic rebate claims for pottery classes, museum exhibitions, winery lunches and other events in the month since they were offered.

‘Sarkaru Vaari Paata’ movie review: It’s a formulaic thing!

By  in May 29th 2022   No Comment »
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The story of director Parasuram’s Sarkaru Vaari Paata rides on the line that money makes the world go round. Nearly all the principal characters fall on either side of the divide — those who toil to repay their small loans and are pushed to the brink, and those who do not repay thousands of crores to the banks. Through the 162-minute narrative, Mahi (Mahesh Babu) asks why ordinary people should be harassed to repay loans of ₹10-15,000 when a business tycoon can get away without repaying ₹10,000 crore.

The thought is hammered through a narrative that is entertaining at first, even though familiar and formulaic, but eventually gets preachy and overdrawn. Parasuram tailors each scene to befit the superstar image of the lead actor. Take the introduction scene for instance, where Mahesh says the now famous line, ‘you can steal my love, you can steal my friendship, but you cannot steal my money’. He bashes up thugs in the US while stating that for every blow he receives, he will return 72 (because 1$=72 rupees). 

Had Mahi not been enacted by an actor with a superstar image, one would ask questions such as how he established a finance company in the US and what his credentials are. Instead, we hold on to the little information that the plotline discloses — that a boy whose parents took their own lives when unable to repay a bank loan, understands the power of those who lend as opposed to those who receive.

The Miami portions are the most entertaining part of the film, again, if you do not raise questions — such as if Kalavathi (Keerthy Suresh) is so silly as to toss her ID cards and passport to random people from whom she borrows money. Kalavathi is a glamorous hoodwinker and Mahi is so besotted that his otherwise sharp nose for money takes a backseat. 

‘It’s a boy thing!’ he tells Kalavathi after trailing her to a university in Miami. As expected, the line elicits cheers. It goes with the mood of the romance track that works because of the timing between Mahesh, Vennela Kishore (as his colleague) and Keerthy. You can either be dumbfounded at the silliness of it all, like how Kishore watches in disbelief or give in to the laughs. It also helps to not ask why Kalavathi stays in debt when just one phone call to her dad (in Visakhapatnam) can bring a helicopter and gunmen to her rescue within seconds in Miami.

The first half rolls by with scenes and song sequences that capitalise on Mahesh’s boyish looks and the charming female lead. Thaman’s background music and the catchy ‘Penny’ and ‘Kalavathi’ songs establish the momentum. Credit also goes to choreographer Shekhar and cinematographer R Madhi for handling these portions well.

The initial confrontations between Mahi and Rajendranath (Samuthirakani) in Vizag, have some spark. But once the battle lines are drawn and the issue of a huge bank loan repayment is highlighted, the rest of it hurtles towards a tiresome battle of wits. 

As Mahi repeatedly harps on the impact of loans on different sections of society, though well-intended, it gets boring. Mahi either sermonises or slaps people, from Brahmaji to Keerthy, to make them see things differently. Smarter writing would have certainly helped. 

Tanikella Bharani, Nadiya, Geetha Bhasker and several others crop up but ultimately, it’s Mahesh Babu’s show that leaves no room for others. Only Vennela Kishore manages to steal some attention with his perfectly-timed expressions, even though he speaks less. Samuthirakani’s characterisation, too, offers nothing innovative. 

It’s high time Mahesh looks beyond stories that have him returning from the United States to India on a mission, invariably delivering social messages and in turn saving people, the State or the country.

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