Harry Potter Fans Fill Theaters for Final Film

By Kristina Schnack Kotlus

Woodbridge, Va. — As the final film in the seven-part Harry Potter saga premiered Thursday night, it was bewitching hour for many fans.

7 p.m.
There were already a few black graduation gowns –– made popular by the characters in the long running in the seven-part fantasy series –– sitting on the floor of several theaters in Northern Virginia.

8 p.m.
A line wound through four turning rope sections at the Kingstown Regal Cinemas filled with fans in their “Hogwarts” best sporting sticks or plastic wands and ties with their favorite “house colors”.

2:50 a.m.
Almost three hours after the first showing of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II”, the initial crowds were leaving for their cars and a steady stream of people, although many in pajamas, was joining the ranks at Potomac Mills AMC Theaters in Woodbridge for a 3:15 a.m. showing of the film.

While many uber fans came decked out in costume, Gaby Swanson of Quantico came in her regular clothes. “I love being able to come for a 3 a.m. showing”, shared Swanson, “this way I got to use my husband as a baby sitter and still see the show. Plus, I was able to get a few hours of sleep before heading out.”

AMC employees stayed late at the theater and provided popcorn, sodas, and candy to late-night moviegoers.

As for the film itself, Swanson said “the action scenes were great and the effects were seamless. It was really fun to watch.”

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows II is now open at theaters all over the Potomac Communities with show times varying by location, and is offered in both traditional and 3D formats.