“Harry Potter” fans will have the chance to experience all eight films on the largest movie screen in Indiana.
In a celebration of the 15th anniversary of the release of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” the Indiana State Museum is hosting a Harry Potter Fan Festival starting Oct. 14. The films will run on the museum’s IMAX screen.
Students who are fans of the movies are excited for the possibility of getting to see the movies in theaters again.
RuthAnne Shellabarger, a junior public relations major, read the books growing up and went to almost all of the films when they came out.
“I’d like to say I am a pretty devoted Potterhead,” Shellabarger said. “I would love to go see the movies at the Harry Potter Fan Festival. I think it would be a fantastic experience to be able to relive all of the movies in theaters again.”
Brandon Chitwood, a senior philosophy major, said the idea seemed neat.
“I always like those types of gatherings that get a lot of people together who all like the same thing,” Chitwood said. “You know everyone likes it, so there will be cheering and the like. It’s just a fun experience.”
Samantha Shoemaker, a junior social work major, wishes she had the time and money to go to the festival.
“I’ve always loved the books and movies,” Shoemaker said. “They were a great way for my mom and I to connect. This idea kind of sparks renewed excitement about the films.”
The festival and shows will run throughout the week until Oct. 19. There will also be matinee times.
Tickets for a single screening cost $12 for adults. “Potter Passes” are also available for $75; these allow moviegoers to view each film once. Passes also include a free ticket to the opening night showing of “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” the series' prequel.
Aside from finding the time and money to attend, the hardest part of the festival is picking which film to see.
“I’d probably want to see all of them,” Shellabarger said. “I mean, what Potterhead wouldn’t want to have a 'Harry Potter' marathon on the largest screen in Indiana?”
