How many Harry Potter movies are there?
Here’s our guide to all eight Harry Potter film series in order
The Harry Potter film series, of wizards, witches, and sorcery, produced and distributed by Warner Bros have captivated audiences around the world since its launch in 2001.
The films, based on the fantasy novels created by J.K. Rowling is an epic tale of magic, friendship, and adventure. The Harry Potter series is now published in 80 languages, and over 500 million copies have been sold across the world.
Calling all witches, wizards, and muggles alike! If you've been lost in Diagon Alley and missed the Hogwarts Express, here’s our guide to all eight Harry Potter films in order.
The Harry Potter films are streaming on Netflix and NOW with a Sky Cinema Membership.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)
The adventure begins with young Harry, who, in 2001, discovered his extraordinary heritage and began his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, as inspired by JK Rowling's novel of the same name.
The first instalment launched the series on a high note, and has earned over $965 million at the global box office to date.
Chris Columbus, director of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, has called for the release of an extended cut of the film featuring half-hour of unseen footage and a three-hour runtime, initially screened to a select group of test audiences before the film's release.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
Harry returned to Hogwarts for his second year and uncovers the mystery of the Chamber of Secrets as envisioned by Rowling's second novel.
Sir Kenneth Branagh joined the series as the new Defence Against The Dark Arts teacher Gilderoy Lockhart, and audiences were also introduced to the flying car, and the introduction of Dobby the House Elf.
The film has grossed over $874 million worldwide.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)
In 2004, Harry embarked on his third year, diving into the mystery of Sirius Black, an escaped prisoner who may hold the key to his past, a story spun from Rowling's third novel.
The film received positive reviews (many consider it to be the best in the series now) with praise for its portrayal for its darker tone and character development. One critic noted, "This Potter is unusually intense and offers pain along with the thrills."
Filmgoers were introduced to the Marauder's Map, the character Sirius Black, and the Dementors.
Production costs of the film were around $130 million and box office gross was over $784 million.
Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón directed the film when halfway through reading the book he realised the opportunity that was in front of him.
“As a filmmaker, it was almost like a lesson of humility, of saying how am I going to do it my own," he said, "but at the same time, respecting what has been beloved in those couple of movies.”
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
The Triwizard Tournament takes centre stage as Harry faces unexpected challenges and a rising darkness based on Rowling's fourth instalment.
The film cost $150 million to produce and grossed over $886 million.
Reviewers noted the dark turn the series was taking and highlights include the Yule Ball, Voldemort's return, and the first death of a major character.
One critic described the film to be "darkest and most ambitious Harry Potter outing to-date."
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
2007 brought the revelation of the Ministry of Magic's denial of Voldemort's return, pushing Harry and his friends to create "Dumbledore's Army" to stand against the dark forces. The film was based on Rowling's fifth novel.
Costing approximately $150 million, and grossing over $939 million, critics praised the performances, particularly Daniel Radcliffe's portrayal of Harry and was a nominee in the Critics Choice Awards.
Highlights include the formation of Dumbledore's Army, the prophecy about Harry and Voldemort, and the death of Sirius Black.
The film was nominated for two Bafta Awards.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
As Voldemort's power surged, Harry delved into secrets about his enemy while receiving guidance from Professor Dumbledore. The sixth film series is inspired by Rowling's sixth book.
The film grossed over $929 million and critics appreciated the exploration of Voldemort's past and the complex relationships.
One of the most significant and emotional moments in the film is the death of Albus Dumbledore at the hands of Severus Snape. This event marks a turning point in the series.
The film delves deeper into the concept of Horcruxes, dark objects containing a fragment of Voldemort's soul. This knowledge becomes central to the characters' mission to defeat him.
The Half-Blood Prince was a crucial instalment in the Harry Potter series, setting the stage for the epic conclusion in Deathly Hallows.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010)
In 2010, Harry, Ron, and Hermione embarked on a quest to destroy the Horcruxes, the magical objects containing fragments of Voldemort's soul, taking their first step toward vanquishing the dark wizard.
It was the first of a two part film finale, based on Rowling's seventh novel.
The film grossed over $951 million at the box office with critics praising its character development and the emotional depth.
Highlights include the trio's quest for Horcruxes, the infiltration of the Ministry of Magic, and the tragic loss of Dobby.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011)
The epic finale unfolded in 2011, with the Battle of Hogwarts and Harry's ultimate confrontation with Voldemort. It brought the saga to a magnificent close, adapting the second half of Rowlings' seventh Harry Potter book.
Actor Ralph Fiennes who played the role of Voldermort, previously said that he could 'understand' Voldemort's 'loneliness'.
According to her publishers, Bloomsbury the last instalment became the fastest-selling book ever, selling 2.65 million in the first 24 hours in the UK.
The film grossed over $1.313 billion and critics hailed it as an epic conclusion and a fitting end to the series.
Eight wizardry movies that take you on an unforgettable journey through the world of Harry Potter, whether you're a first-time viewer or a seasoned fan, these films continue to weave their spell.
The Harry Potter films are streaming on Netflix and NOW with a Sky Cinema Membership.
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