The Magic of Harry Potter: A Look Back at the First Film

The year was 2001, and the world was introduced to a young wizard named Harry Potter in the first film adaptation of J.K. Rowling's beloved book series. The film, directed by Chris Columbus, brought the magical world to life with stunning visuals, memorable characters, and an unforgettable story.

In 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone' (released as 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' in the United States), we meet Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) as he discovers his true identity as a wizard on his eleventh birthday. Alongside his best friends Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson), Harry embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about the Sorcerer's Stone, a powerful object that can grant eternal life.

Throughout the film, we see the iconic characters of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry come to life. From the wise and kind Headmaster Albus Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) to the sinister and power-hungry Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes), each character adds depth and complexity to the story.

One of the standout scenes in the film is when Dumbledore confronts Voldemort's followers, leading to a dramatic and intense battle. The scene showcases Alan Rickman's iconic performance as Severus Snape, whose loyalties are tested throughout the series.

As the year comes to a close, Harry and Dumbledore embark on a mission to retrieve one of the seven Horcruxes created by Voldemort, a dark and ancient spell that splits the soul into multiple pieces. This sets the stage for the events of the subsequent films in the series.

The film's success can be attributed to its ability to balance action, adventure, and humor with heartwarming moments and memorable characters. The Harry Potter franchise went on to become one of the most beloved and successful film series of all time, grossing billions of dollars worldwide and captivating audiences across generations.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first film's release, fans can relive the magic by watching the entire series or revisiting their favorite scenes. The franchise has also been celebrated with a special reunion featurette on HBO Max, 'Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts,' which brings together cast members and creators for an exclusive look back at the making of the films.

What are your own rankings of the Harry Potter movies? Let us know in the comments below!

First harry potter movie