Harry Potter is a global phenomenon that captured the hearts of millions when the first book (Philosopher’s Stone) was published by author J. K. Rowling in 1997. Over two decades, 7 books and 8 films later, Harry Potter continues to be one of the best loved stories to ever exist. If you don’t know the storyline, we regret to inform you that you are in fact, a muggle. And as you know, this article is not for muggles…

…however, for all our wizarding folk, here are our top 10 Harry Potter Movie Facts.

1. Harry’s Invisibility Cloak took several attempts to create

So, we all know that the invisibility cloak is… well, invisible. But originally the cloak was embossed with planetary and alchemical symbols to create the desired effect, when it was shown on screen as Harry opened it. It took several versions and an incredible green screen material to make the cloak come to life when actor Daniel Radcliffe put it on. The final version of the cloak was designed for SFX artists, and they were able to use the green screen material that the cloak was lined with to blend it into the background.

We tried to find a picture of the invisibility cloak, but… we couldn’t see it.

2. Contact sport was forbidden for the actors

Of course, shooting a film is a very serious business, so the cast and crew have to sign contracts with very strict rules! One of the rules was that they were not allowed to play any contact sports, and they were only ever allowed to play golf as it was classed as a non-contact sport.

That must have been a nightmare when Harry and Ron can’t get onto Platform 9 and ¾ and they go head first into the wall, right?

3. Hagrid was very nearly played by someone else

Robin Williams was initially interested in playing the role of Hagrid, and was considered by producers. However, one very strict Harry Potter rule halted him from taking up residency at Hogwarts… his American accent. The film was only interested in casting British actors for the main roles.

At least we all have his incredible work on Mrs. Doubtfire to cherish.

4. Hogwarts had weird school mottos

Okay, now let’s get really intricate. Hogwarts’ motto is “Draco dormiens nunquam titillandus” which actually means “Never tickle a sleeping dragon”.

Well damn, “Facts About Tickling A Sleeping Dragon” was actually going to be one of our next articles. I guess we’ll hold that thought…

5. Michael Jackson rejection

Michael Jackson and Harry Potter probably shouldn’t belong in the same sentence. However, J.K. Rowling was actually approached by MJ who wanted to produce a Harry Potter musical. Needless to say, she rejected it.

We think “Thriller” would have looked great in the Forbidden Forest!

6. The real reason behind Harry Potter’s birthday

Do you often find yourself wondering where producers pluck random ideas from, like characters’ birthdays? Well, J.K. Rowling chose a very special date for Harry Potter’s birthday. 31st July, which just so happens to be hers, too!

7. Buckbeak or Buck Teeth?

Hermione Granger actually had buck teeth in the books. Later down the line when filming commenced, producers tried to continue this on actress Emma Watson by supplying her with fake buck teeth to wear. They decided against the idea when she struggled to speak.

It’s leviosa, not levio-sar… blame the teeth, Hermione.

8. It’s not always been about Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter

Draco Malfoy actor, Tom Felton, almost didn’t land his role. He actually auditioned for the roles of Harry and Ron as well, but was most suited to Draco.

We refuse to entertain this fact any further, it’s quite simply, ludicrous.

9. H-owl on earth did they do that?

Hedwig and his pals had to be trained to carry letters for the films. It took the production team several months to train the owls to carry and deliver letters. Hedwig is a female snowy owl, but the actors playing her are males. Male owls have whiter plumage than females, as they have darker markings.

10. April Fools!

Fred and George Weasley were born on April Fool’s Day. The twins are known to be pranksters, so it seemed fitting for them to be born on the funniest day of the year. Trouble is, were they really born on that day, or is that a prank too..?

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Any more Harry Potter facts we haven’t included? Let us know and we’ll add them to this article!

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