The Success of the Harry Potter Franchise

             Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (later changed to Sorcerer’s Stone in The U.S.), the first novel of the seven book series, was first published in Britain in 1997. Since then J.K. Rowling has experienced extraordinary success. Her novel was the first children’s book to reach the New York Times bestselling list since the release of Charlotte’s Web in the 1950s. In 1998, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was released in the United States, also achieving huge success. Rowling continued writing and published two more books before 1999 came to an end. That year Warner Brother’s also gained the rights to the series and production on the first film began.  Since then, 7 novels and 8 films have been released, making J.K. Rowling the first self-made billionaire through writing books. The books have won awards such as the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize, Whitaker Platinum Book Awards, Best Fiction prize in Goodreads Choice Awards, and many others. The books have been translated into 67 different languages and have sold over 400 million copies worldwide, making it the bestselling series ever. In addition, the final novel Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is the fastest selling novel of all time, selling 11 million copies in the first 24 hours. The novels are considered by many to be literary classics.  

            As of 2012, the Harry Potter films are the most successful film franchise of all time, beating out the Star Wars and James Bond series. Over a period of ten year, 8 films were released grossing over $7.7 billion. Each filmed has achieved success and recognition in its own way. The first film was the most successful until the release of the final installment, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2. As I mentioned in my last post, the series may be complete, but it is never truly gone. Through the love and admiration of its fans, the Harry Potter franchise will continue to grow and gain money. I can say with confidence that Harry Potter is not going away any time soon.

Harry Potter... Here to stay

            After the final film was released in July 2011, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, fans around the world were heartbroken at the end of an era. Many people have grown up with the series, either through the novels or the movies. While many people are unhappy because there will be no new books or movies, true fans know that Harry Potter is not going anywhere. Rowling’s novels have influenced readers of all ages: children, parents, and even grandparents.

            Since the release of the Deathly Hallows Part 2, J.K. Rowling has opened up a new virtual website that allows fans to engage in reading and activities that deal with the series. Rowling teamed up with Sony to create “Pottermore” which features additional thoughts on the series from the mind of J.K. Rowling. Fans are able to cast spells, create potions, and even get sorted into one of the four houses of Hogwarts (Ravenclaw, Slytherin, Hufflepuff or Gryffindor). The website has been very well received by fans, although it did not receive the large anticipation that came along with the books or movies. “Pottermore” is still up and running, but only the first three books have been released.

            Another part of the franchise that will live on is the Harry Potter theme park. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Florida was officially announced in May of 2007 and finally opened in June of 2010. The park features several rides and re-creations of different places that Harry visits throughout the novels including Hogsmeade, a wizarding village, the Hogwarts Express, and the Hogwarts castle itself. There is also many shops and restaurants that are featured in the films and books including Ollivander’s wand shop, Honeydukes, Zonko’s Joke Shop, The Three Broomsticks, and Hog’s head. Visitors can enjoy a butter beer or pick out a wand. The theme park continues to draw in fans from around the world and will be an attraction for many years to come.

            Although the series is complete, fans are just as loyal as ever. People are very appreciative of J.K. Rowling and the world she has created. She has made a very strong impact on many peoples’ lives and will continue to amaze readers as more and more people read Harry Potter.  As she once said herself “Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.”
 

Thank you J.K. Rowling