What’s new for home viewing on Video on Demand and Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max and other streaming services.
Top streams for the week
Oscar winner Olivia Colman brings a compelling complexity to “The Lost Daughter” (2021, R) as a literature scholar on a vacation in Greece whose fascination with a young mother (Dakota Johnson) stirs up troubling memories. It’s the directorial debut of Maggie Gyllenhaal, who also adapts the novel by Elena Ferrante, and she draws superb performances from her entire cast, including Jessie Buckley as the younger incarnation of Colman’s character, Ed Harris and Peter Sarsgaard. (Netflix)
Another character from the “Star Wars” universe gets its own series in “The Book of Boba Fett” (TV-14), starring Temuera Morrison as infamous bounty hunter Boba Fett and Ming-Na Wen as his loyal partner Fennec Shand. The highly anticipated spinoff from “The Mandalorian” opens with the pair returning to the sands of Tatooine to stake their claim on the territory once ruled by Jabba the Hutt and his crime syndicate. Jon Favreau writes and produces with Dave Filoni, and Robert Rodriguez directs the debut episode. New episodes on Wednesdays. (Disney+)
The documentary “Finding Kendrick Johnson” (2021, TV-14) digs into the unanswered questions around the death of a high school student and the lies in the official investigation and reveals the institutional racism behind the negligence and injustice. (Starz)
If you’ve cut the cable cord, you can still stream New Year’s Eve countdowns live on Peacock and paramount+.
And on New Year’s Day, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson celebrate “Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts” (2021, TV-14) in a reunion special with other members of the cast and creative team. Then you can test your knowledge in the quiz series “Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses” (TV-PG) hosted by Helen Mirren. (HBO Max)
Pay-Per-View / Video on Demand
A childless couple raise a strange newborn found on their farm as their child in “Lamb” (Iceland, 2021, R, with subtitles), a surreal thriller starring Noomi Rapace.
The crime thriller “Stay Close” (TV-MA), starring James Nesbitt, Cush Jumbo and Richard Armitage is the latest Netflix limited-series adapted from a Harlan Coben novel.
The limited-series documentary “Stories of a Generation With Pope Francis” (TV-14) features men and women from around the world over the age of 70 sharing their life stories.
The fourth season of “Cobra Kai” (TV-14) follows the troubled partnership of the former rivals (William Zabka and Ralph Macchio).
True crime: The limited series “Crime Scene: The Times Square Killer” (TV-MA) looks at how one man was able to commit brutal crimes in the late 1970s and early 1980s in New York City. Joe Berlinger directs.
International TV: A failed bank robbery spirals into a crazy hostage situation in the limited series “Anxious People” (Sweden, TV-MA, with subtitles), a mix of crime drama and black comedy.
Kid stuff: In the animated adventure comedy “Seal Team” (2021, TV-Y7), a crew of misfit sea creatures team up to take on sharks.
Hulu
The 10th season of the clever, quick-witted Canadian comedy “Letterkenny” (TV-MA) streams in its entirety.
Sean Axmaker is a Seattle film critic and writer. His reviews of streaming movies and television can be found atstreamondemandathome.com.
As I figured out my own relationship with the series moving forward, I knew I had to change how I shared “Harry Potter” with my kids.
Once I noticed how Rowling described and treated fat characters, I couldn’t let it go
Hagrid is a good guy in the series, but he’s still put down for his appearance.
Warner Bros.
After being disillusioned by Rowling’s transphobic remarks, I began noticing places where “Harry Potter” fell short — including the books’ fat-shaming.
I have a history of an eating disorder that I’m dealing with in therapy as an adult, and I want my kids to be free of diet culture. It’s hard to pass on that lesson when I’m reading them a book series where Rowling repeatedly puts down her fat characters.
Dudley and Vernon Dursley are vicious bullies. Rubeus Hagrid is overemotional and dumb. Molly Weasley is controlling and overprotective.
On the very first page of the first book, Vernon is introduced as a villainous, “beefy man.”
Hagrid, one of the “good guys,” is later described as “simply too big to be allowed” because he’s a half-giant, not a normal wizard. He’s also regularly put down for his perceived lack of intelligence.
Noticing these fat-phobic moments changed the series for me. I don’t want my children to learn to see fat characters as evil or less than.
In later chapters, Dudley — a bully who’s “very fat and hated exercise” — is pitted against the “small and skinny” Harry.
When Hagrid meets Dudley, he jokes about the child not needing any more food and gives him a pig’s tail on his “fat bottom.” Hagrid isn’t remorseful about this abuse. In fact, he meant to turn Dudley completely into a pig.
Dudley is a bully in many moments, but Hagrid — an adult — set a bad example for Harry. At the end of the first book, Harry strategizes the ways he’s going to torment his cousin over the summer.
I don’t want my kids to think they can be mean to anyone, even people who are mean to them.
Then we have Molly Weasley, who is pretty much depicted as powerful only in her capacity as a mother. She’s first introduced as “the boys’ mother.” Then more than once, she’s referred to as “the plump woman.”
I want my kids to see moms as powerful and strong, and as more than their soft figures and traditional gender roles.
Instead of ignoring the series’ problems, I began having conversations with my kids about fatness
Once I started educating myself about why fat bias is unacceptable — with resources such as the “Maintenance Phase” podcast — I started to omit the fat-shaming language when I read the books to my kids.
But since it’s still present in the movies and audiobooks, that clearly wasn’t enough.
So I turned to other “Harry Potter” communities, such as “The Gayly Prophet” podcast, which created a guide for how to “fire” Rowling and still love her stories. In following it, I stopped monetarily supporting Rowling — but boycotting the author also doesn’t keep her already present fat-phobic language out of my kids’ lexicons.
Now, I’ve chosen to point out the problematic moments in the series. I ask my kids questions: “Is this a kind way to talk about a character?” “Should it matter what someone looks like in this scene?” “Is it OK to treat someone this way because of how they look?”
We don’t have deep conversations about it, but I don’t let it slide because I want them to start noticing the issues. They’re too young to read books such as “Harry Potter” by themselves, but when they can, I hope they’re comfortable questioning biases of all kinds.
More than anything, I want to foster the initial inclusivity I felt when I first escaped into the Wizarding World. But that magic isn’t the same anymore, so I can only let my kids live in the Potterverse with caveats.
Platform 9 ¾ is no longer outside of London. It now sits inside the Franklin Institute and nobody has to run through a brick wall to get on the Hogwarts Express.
The world premiere of “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” might be the most immersive, impressive and, maybe, overwhelming exhibit to take over the famed science museum.
“It’s amazing, right,” said Larry Dubinski, the President and CEO of The Franklin Institute. “This exhibition just is immersive. It’s a great experience. It’s just a home run, not just for the Institute but for the whole city. People are going to have a great time when they go through it.”
Vince Carey / MediaNews Group
Hogwarts Castle comes into view at “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” at the Franklin Institute.
Vince Carey / MediaNews Group
Sirius Black delivers a message through the fire in the Gryffindor meeting room.
Vince Carey / MediaNews Group
The various robes worn by Lord Voldemort are on display.
Vince Carey / MediaNews Group
Bottled Butter Beer is for sale at the end of “Harry Potter: The Exhibition.”
Vince Carey / MediaNews Group
Some of the classrooms in Hogwarts are bursting with stuff.
Vince Carey / MediaNews Group
The Golden Snitch at “Harry Potter: The Exhibition.”
The Great Hall including the floating candles are a sight to see at “Harry Potter: The Exhibition.”
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Harry Potter must have turned on some wizarding magic as the presales to attend are outpacing every other exhibit the Institute has hosted since 2007 when King Tut-mania took over. That includes such big sellers as the Titanic, Star Wars, Marvel Comics and the Jurassic World.
“It has surpassed all those,” Dubinski said. “When you think about it, surpassing Marvel, Jurassic, Star Wars, Cleopatra, this is amazing.”
Fans of Harry Potter will be amazed right from the start of the 18,000-square foot exhibit that features 21 different galleries. After a ceremonial boarding of the train (complete with choosing your wizarding house and other Harry Potter-world accoutrements), it’s a short walk to enter a new world.
As visitors explore each gallery, their interactions are captured using RFID wristbands to deliver unique experiences linked to their visitor profile. They will get an up-close look at authentic props and original costumes from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films and an opportunity to engage with innovative, awe-inspiring, and magical environments and installations in ways never before experienced in a touring exhibition.
“Being the world premiere, it’s the first time this exhibition has come together,” Dubinski said. “It came from a variety of different locations being built to come here. So, it has been in process for awhile. It was a really intensive build here. No doubt, how large as it is and issues we are still seeing with supply chain and transportation and things like that. We’ve overcome those obstacles and everything is ready to go.”
“Harry Potter: The Exhibition” was created and developed by Imagine Exhibitions in partnership with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment in association with EMC Presents.
“I run Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment out of Burbank, Calif., and I’m proud to be there, but I’m a Philly boy, born and raised,” said Peter van Roden, Senior Vice President of Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment. “The Franklin Institute was my go-to place growing up. We are thrilled to be launching ‘Harry Potter: The Exhibition’ here.”
After “disembarking” the Hogwarts Express, there is a short video that highlights the book and movie series. An original first edition of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” encased in a Gringotts-inspired vault and is surrounded by inspirational video and literary quotes, reconnecting guests to the story as they are introduced to the exhibition.
Hogwarts Castle features an immersive multimedia experience with iconic elements like the Whomping Willow, Dementors, and the Marauder’s Map, where guests will see their name appear, prompting them to continue their exploration of the exhibition.
The Great Hall is a projection-mapped space that allows visitors to celebrate magical seasonal moments on its majestic grounds.
The Hogwarts Houses gallery sets the foundation for the exhibition experience, allowing guests the opportunity to experience more personalized moments with the house they select during their registration. While guests may gravitate towards one house, this Gallery will enable visitors to experience all of the Hogwarts houses in a celebratory hall featuring an iconic Sorting Hat, perfect for photo ops, while surrounded by freshly designed house crests on meticulously created stained glass windows.
Hogwarts Classrooms are filled with iconic props, creatures, and costumes. Visitors will interact with magical lessons and games through digital touchscreens to reveal behind-the-scenes secrets about iconic classroom moments. They will brew potions in the Potions Classroom, predict the future in Divination, pot a mandrake in the Herbology Greenhouse, and use their digital wand to defeat a boggart in Defense Against the Dark Arts.
Hagrid’s Hut The Forbidden Forest offers an interactive Patronus charm experience. Guests will then uncover iconic creatures, such as Centaurs and Acromantula, hidden in the forest and explore inside a recreation of Hagrid’s Hut.
Newt’s Suitcase photo opportunity allows guests to step inside his enchanted case and be surrounded by creatures seen in the Fantastic Beasts films.
That only is the tip of the Wizarding iceberg. You can see some of the iconic costumes and wands used in the movies. There’s even a recreation of Harry Potter’s bedroom under the stairs of the Dursley house.
In the end, you can even take home a Butterbeer.
“I think there is a one-of-a-kind fanbase,” Dubinski said. “You know, because of the breath of books and movies and plays, it just has this unbelievable world-wide appeal. It’s great timing for us as restrictions begin to be lifted and people are feeling more comfortable to come out.”
‘Harry Potter: The Exhibition’ is open daily from 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. and requires special timed tickets; advance reservations are strongly recommended. Daytime Tickets: 9:30 am-5 pm, Adult $43; Child $39 + includes admission to The Franklin Institute. Evening Tickets: 5 p.m.-8 p.m., Adult $30; Child $30.
The Hogwarts headmaster kept secrets from Harry that ultimately led him into grave danger.
Instead of asking for help from the skilled wizards around him, Dumbledore just did what he wanted.
Professor Albus Dumbledore is hailed as the most brilliant wizard of all time and the only man Lord Voldemort was scared of. But he’s no hero in the “Harry Potter” series.
In fact, he mostly just led Harry into danger on far more occasions than necessary.
On the path to defeating Voldemort, Dumbledore consistently mistreated the people closest to him by selfishly keeping them in the dark.
From the very beginning, Dumbledore sent Harry off to fight while holding back crucial information
Dumbledore put Harry in danger in his first year at Hogwarts.
Warner Bros.
In his first year at Hogwarts, 11-year-old Harry does the unthinkable and goes up against Lord Voldemort alone.
But even after this dangerous, traumatic experience, he defends Dumbledore to his friends by saying the headmaster just wanted to give him “a chance” to do it on his own.
As Harry is literally lying in the hospital wing after this horrible encounter, he asks Dumbledore about his scar and his connection to Voldemort. But instead of explaining as much as he could, Dumbledore tells him he’s too young to know those answers yet.
He was apparently old enough to face grave danger and the most powerful dark wizard but too young to know the truth about his own history.
Later in “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” withholding that information about Harry’s connection to Voldemort came at the heavy price of Sirius Black’s life.
If Harry knew how Voldemort could manipulate his mind, he wouldn’t have fallen for the trap and rushed to the Department of Mysteries thinking he was going to save his godfather.
Dumbledore explicitly knew this was a possibility, but he decided not to tell Harry. He calls his close-lipped approach “an old man’s mistake” and explains that he was distant because he thought Voldemort might use Harry “as a means to spy” on him.
Dumbledore also knew about the prophecy that Professor Trelawney foretold long before Harry ever came to Hogwarts. He knew that in order to kill Voldemort, Harry likely had to die as well.
From the very first time Harry asked questions about his scar until Sirius’ death, Dumbledore concealed all of this crucial information.
Dumbledore was more interested in achieving his grand plans than communicating with the people around him
Dumbledore used Snape to bring about his goals.
Warner Bros.
From the outset, Dumbledore acted like a man who was dealing with chess pieces rather than human lives. But the unilateral decisions he made affected everyone around him.
Even with the most talented and skilled witches in the Order of the Phoenix at his disposal, Dumbledore rarely seemed to involve anyone else in his grand plans. These people were ready to lay down their lives at his command, but Dumbledore gave them only enough information to make their next assigned move on his board.
The headmaster could have told the order about Voldemort’s Horcruxes. But instead, he vaguely tells Remus Lupin, “Harry is the best hope we have. Trust him,” once again putting all the responsibility and pressure on a teenage boy.
Before his death, Dumbledore believed Draco Malfoy was tasked with his murder, but he didn’t try to stop his advances all year, putting students’ lives in danger. Then he went about planning his own demise with little regard for Harry, Severus Snape, or the students at Hogwarts.
He essentially guilts Snape into killing him, and to top it off, he puts Harry under a freezing charm nearby, effectively forcing him to watch powerlessly with no explanation.
Harry later learns that Snape actually called Dumbledore out for his less-than-transparent methods before his death.
Snape tells Dumbledore, “I have spied for you and lied for you, put myself in mortal danger for you. Everything was supposed to be to keep Lily Potter’s son safe. Now you tell me you have been raising him like a pig for slaughter.”
And Snape had little to show for the years of risking his life and bowing to Dumbledore’s whims — aside from landing the long-coveted role of defense against the dark arts professor.
Dumbledore’s brother, Aberforth perhaps puts it best when he tells Harry about Albus’ long history with secrecy.
“My brother Albus wanted a lot of things, and people had a habit of getting hurt while he was carrying out his grand plans.”
Dumbledore might have been a great wizard, but his hunger for power and control kept him from being truly good
Power was Dumbledore’s greatest vice.
Warner Bros.
At the end of the series, Dumbledore admits to Harry that power is his ultimate weakness.
He was always conscious of it, and he feared that power had the potential to corrupt him beyond help. That’s why he never accepted the Ministry of Magic position even after it was offered several times.
Although it’s refreshing that he realized his shortcomings, he never quite grasped their impact. He had his eyes fixed on a goal and destroyed many lives in pursuit of it.
Harry was a loyal soldier; he was “Dumbledore’s man through and through,” and the headmaster took advantage of that.
Dumbledore knew that nothing bound the soul more surely than love — a lesson he sought to teach Harry throughout his life — and so he used Harry’s love for him as a weapon just as he used Snape’s love for Lily to persuade him to do his bidding.
Some might argue that Dumbledore was doing what had to be done to defeat Voldemort — he was doing what any good (and ultimately successful) general of war would do. But he constantly crossed the line between a stoic general and a scheming conspirator by never giving his followers enough information to make a free choice.
He gave everyone only enough to get them to do what he wanted.
Raise your butterbeers — a new Harry Potter-inspired bar is opening in Lakewood.
The owners of Denver restaurant group Handsome Boys Hospitality plan to open Muggles Pub at 7260 W. Alaska Drive in the Belmar shopping district.
The British pub chain Baker Street Pub and Grill operated in the space until late 2018 and then became Winston’s Pub Grill, which closed shortly thereafter in 2019.
“When we took over the lease and walked in it just screamed London pub,” said Handsome Boys Hospitality founder Josh Schmitz. “And for us, in everything we do, we always want to add an extra twist. So, the Harry Potter-inspired theme made perfect sense. Coming out of COVID, it’s not just a good cocktail that will bring you out of your house anymore — it’s an experience as well.”
Schmitz said he’s somewhat limited by what words he can use at the bar due to trademarks. But he said Muggles Pub — “muggles” refers to non-wizards in the series by author J.K. Rowling — will feature floating candles reminiscent of Hogwarts’ famous dining room, butterbeer-like drinks and other cocktails and Hogwarts house flags. It will serve concession fare like hot dogs and nachos.
The bar will be open 4 p.m. to midnight on weekdays and until 2 a.m. on weekends.
Another Harry Potter-inspired pop-up bar called The Wizard’s Den debuted in Denver last January at 435 W. Colfax Ave. in Denver’s Central Business District and stayed open through mid-March. The immersive bar is back again starting Dec. 1.
Muggles Pub is taking over the former Baker Street Pub and Grill space.
Handsome Boys Hospitality signed a lease for their 6,400-square-foot space in early November, and Schmitz said they expect to open Dec. 1. Josh Kruse, former general manager of Uptown’s The District, will be Muggles Pub’s new general manager.
“We have a special event permit for the month of December, and we’re partnering with Mayor Adam Paul and the city of Lakewood to continue special event permits until our full liquor license comes through,” Schmitz said. “We were approached with the idea of Belmar being the new hot downtown of Lakewood, and they knew we were the only group that could get something like this up and running this fast.”
Seattle-based real estate investment firm Bridge33 Capital purchased Belmar in June with plans to “increase the vibrancy” of the shopping center.
Josh Sampson, owner of Good Baby Management, a Denver real estate and brand development company, is also opening a Holiday Bazaar across from Muggles Pub at 439 S. Teller St. from Dec. 3-19 with more than 80 craft vendors, fashion trucks, holiday-themed pop-up bars and live entertainment, according to Belmar’s website.
Good Baby Management owns Big Wonderful, a pop-up beer garden and festival, and Garage Sale, a Larimer Square vintage clothing and vinyl shop.
“I’m a west side kid to begin with,” Schmitz said. “I grew up going to Baker Street and was raised on the west side of the town. So, this is really full circle for me and goes back to my roots. To do something for that side of town is really exciting.”
Schmitz, 35, launched Handsome Boys Hospitality with his longtime friend and business partner Nick Brown during the pandemic and has since grown it from five to 70 employees. The restaurant group has offices at 1409 Larimer St., and Brandon Jundt, founder of Denver-based Wynkoop Financial, is a partner in the business.
Naughty List, a Christmas-themed pop-up bar at 1403 Larimer St.
The restaurant group owns three themed concepts in Larimer Square: Hidden Gems, a Wizard of Oz-themed ice cream shop at 1411 Larimer St.; Drunken Bakery, an Alice in Wonderland-themed bakery on its right; and Naughty List, a Christmas-themed pop-up bar at 1403 Larimer St., which was previously Spirits, a Halloween-themed bar for the month of October.
Naughty List will be open from Black Friday until New Year’s Day, and Schmitz hopes to open another concept permanently in the space afterward.
In addition to Larimer Square, Handsome Boys Hospitality has plans to open RiNo Country Club, a putt-putt bar with a biergarten at 3763 Wynkoop St. in early 2022, and Con Safos, a Mexican party bar at 1416 Market St. in LoDo, shortly after.
“If you’re not a little bit scared, you’re probably not pushing yourself hard enough,” Schmitz said in regards to the multiple upcoming openings.
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.
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.
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.
Get the Harry Potter Luxe Advent Calendar Candy Fill from Williams Sonoma for $110.95
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
►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.
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.
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.
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.
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Speaking on his Sacred Symbols+ podcast (paywalled on Patreon, transcribed by VGC), Colin Moriarty when his co-host brought the game up in discussion said, “I’m hearing behind the scenes that game is not coming out this year, and that it’s in some sort of trouble.”
While Moriarty didn’t elaborate, the game hasn’t been publicly shown in some time, and currently has no release date beyond 2022.
ORIGINAL STORY CONTINUES: Late last year, Rachel Wakely, Warner Bros. general manager spoke to Toy World magazine about the Wizarding World IP, in which she referred to “two major releases in 2022”. The first was the upcoming Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbeldore, she said, which releases in the UK on April 8. The second was Hogwarts Legacy.
“From what we’ve seen, the launch will be well worth the wait and deliver a unique way for fans to interact with the franchise”.
This could suggest that the game isn’t set to release until after Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbeldore.
Hogwarts Legacy will also reportedly add the ability for players to create transgender heroes, following controversy stemming from comments made by series creator J.K. Rowling.
According to a Bloomberg report citing anonymous sources at Warner Bros.’ Avalanche studio, some members of the game’s development have since fought to make the game as inclusive as possible, in response to the author’s comments.
Former US talk show host Jon Stewart says comments he made about the Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone film were meant to be “light-hearted” and he was not accusing author JK Rowling of antisemitism.
The comedian said news outlets had “piled into this ridiculously out-of-context nonsense”, and he did not want the franchise censored “in any way”.
It comes after a clip emerged of Stewart discussing scenes from the film set in the magical bank Gringotts, run by goblins, on his podcast The Problem with Jon Stewart.
Image: JK at the world premiere of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald in Paris in November 2018. Pic: AP
In it, Stewart made comparisons between caricatures from antisemitic literature and the “folks that run the bank”.
Speaking in a video posted on Twitter, he said: “There is no reasonable person that could have watched it and not seen it as a light-hearted conversation amongst colleagues and chums.
“Having a laugh, enjoying ourselves about Harry Potter and my experience watching for the first time in the theatre as Jewish guy and how some tropes are so embedded in society that they’re basically invisible even in a considered process like movie-making.
“This morning I wake up, it’s trending on Twitter, and here’s the headline… ‘Jon Stewart accuses JK Rowling of antisemitism’.”
He added: “So let me just say this super clearly, as clearly as I can.
“Hello, my name is Jon Stewart. I do not think JK Rowling is antisemitic.
“I do not think the Harry Potter movies are antisemitic.
“I really love the Harry Potter movies, probably too much for a gentleman of my considerable age.
“I cannot stress this enough – I am not accusing JK Rowling of being antisemitic. She need not answer to any of it.
“I don’t want the Harry Potter movies censored in any way. It was a light-hearted conversation.”
Image: (L-R) Rupert Grint, Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe. Pic: PA Photo/Warner Media, LLC
Representatives for Rowling said the author would not be commenting on Stewart’s remarks.
In her world-famous books, the goblins that run Gringott’s Bank are depicted as ill-tempered, diminutive creatures who are the guardians of the gold.
Accusations that the characters are antisemitic have rumbled on for several years.
Since the films were released, she has become a controversial figure over her comments on gender identity and attracted criticism from many, including franchise stars Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe.
Main Street, Central Park and the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway station were crowded with families who dressed up and got in to the spirit of the Witches and Wizards Day.
Bradford Council, which organised the event, says an estimated 3,500 people enjoyed the day.
Events included ‘the Battle of the Wizards’ show, broomstick flying lessons, and potion making, as well as plenty of photo opportunities.. Children and adults were delighted to meet the characters from the famous school of witches and wizards, including the professors of potions and herbology, as well as the groundskeeper, some even got to hold real life owls.
Scott Vipond-Clarke organiser of the event, said: “It was a fantastic day to be out enjoying Haworth in the sunshine. Main Street was bustling and many of the shops and traders dressed their windows and themselves in suitably magical ways.
“The feedback from both visitors and businesses has been full of praise.”
All the events are part of Bradford Council’s Spring Back 2022 campaign which is a partnership with local artists, event organisers and businesses to stage these free events and colourful street art to encourage people to rediscover the district’s town’s and village’s high streets.
If you like Harry Potter, you’ll love the Teen Night Out event on Feb. 18 at the Fort Morgan Library and Museum.
This enchanting Teen Night Out will test out your knowledge of all things Harry Potter. Play trivia games with your friends. Make and try some magical cuisine. Get sorted into your Hogwarts house using our very own sorting hat. Immerse yourself in Harry’s world like never before.
The event is open to ages 12-18. The event will run from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Snacks and drinks will be provided. Registration is required and space is limited so act fast! For more information and to register, contact Angie Hoke at (970) 542-4008 or angie.hoke@cityoffortmorgan.com.
