When I went to go look at the special features, normally there are multiple menus that take you through the special features. To my dismay, one menu pops up with 3 bullet points: "A Conversation with JK Rowling and Daniel Radcliffe", "The Goblins of Gringotts" and "The Women of Harry Potter". Yes, they are all fascinating topics, and I loved learning more about each. However, in the past, dvd special features have also included deleted scenes, going behind the scenes in multiple areas, and different interactive games involving the plot of the particular movie. How lame was that?
I was especially disappointed because, so it seems, everything has converted to blu-ray. In order for me to have the special features I have been used to, I would have to buy the Blu-Ray combo pack, which was not only a full $10 more, but would also require a special dvd player that could read Blu-Ray discs; of course, I don't own one. Go figure. (I will link, once again, to the video I included in the last entry to further my point):
Enough with my whining, however. I will analyze the special features at face value.
A Conversation with Daniel Radcliffe and JK Rowling
The best part of this special feature was the inclusion of clips from when Daniel was first hired to play the part of Harry. Let me just say, adorable. It was great to see how the actor himself has matured and how the series has affected his life. It was great to see this filmed conversation between the writer of the series and the main actor, which was apparently their first filmed conversation together.
The following clip includes part of their interview. I would have to say this was definitely my favorite special feature aspect of the dvd:
The Goblins of Gringotts
The heading pretty much gives it away. Visual look at the in-depth process the actors in Harry Potter went through to become goblins. I must say, takes quite a bit more time and effort than I thought it would! It also goes into the development of certain goblins as characters, including Griphook, the goblin who helped Harry, Ron and Hermione break into Gringotts.
The above picture shows Griphook during the scene where Harry and him seal the deal, and he agrees to take the trio to Gringotts.
The Women of Harry Potter
The beginning of this section opens with JK Rowling discussing her role as a woman writer and how being a woman has affected her writing, as well as her creation of the different women roles in Harry Potter. Fantastic feministic piece, and really shows an in-depth development of the women characters. I will say though, I honestly did not learn much in this section. Kind of a disappointment.
Blu-Ray Features
Okay, so I'm getting back on my soap box: The Blu-Ray special features include all of the above, and additionally:
-Maximum Movie Mode hosted by Matthew Long (Neville Longbottom) and other cast members (80 minutes)
-A Conversation with JK Rowling and Daniel Radcliffe (as listed above)--Discusses the process of bringing Harry Potter's character to life, the decade of films and how their lives have changed by the fame that they've both experienced.
-The Goblins of Gringotts (as listed above)--Hosted by Warwick Davis, it includes the process of "becoming a goblin" in the films, from the auditions and casting to makeup, prosthetic tests and filming the final scenes.
-The Women of Harry Potter (as listed above)--Shows an in-depth look into the women in Harry Potter's life and the critical role they play in the films.
-When Harry Left Hogwards--BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Morgan Matthews has been given access to the decision-making processes that have been kept a secret until now. Includes stories of the faces we know, and those we don't, as we come to the end of one of the most successful eras in cinema history.
-WB Studio Tour London--The Making of Harry Potter
-Deleted Scenes
Now, I don't know about you, but I think that should have been included for all of us that aren't fortunate enough to have Blu-Ray. I will digress.
Additional bad news, however, to Harry Potter fans: Warner Brothers has announced that they will halt production of the films and put them "in the vault", like many Disney movies, on December 29th. Hurry up and go get your movies, kids--otherwise it'll be awhile before you can go out and buy them again! For further information on this press release, go here.
On that note, I officially know what I am asking for as a gift for Christmas: All 8 movies on Blu-Ray combo pack, and a Blu-Ray dvd player. Take notes, friends.
Coming Up Next...
I plan to discuss more updates on Pottermore (or lack of) as well as possibly discuss the differences between viewing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in 3D vs. regular 2D
