The simple answer is: there isn’t a “new” Harry Potter movie currently available to watch. However, the Wizarding World continues to expand with prequels like Fantastic Beasts and rumors of future projects swirling, keeping the magic alive for dedicated fans.
Navigating the Wizarding World on Screen: Understanding What’s Available Now
While a direct sequel to the original Harry Potter series remains elusive, the world created by J.K. Rowling continues to find new life on both the big and small screens. Understanding what is available is the first step to scratching that magical itch.
Existing Harry Potter Films: A Recap
Let’s reiterate: There isn’t a brand new Harry Potter film. What exists is the original eight-film series adapting the seven books:
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010)
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 (2011)
These films are readily accessible through various streaming services, digital retailers, and physical media. We will cover this in more depth below.
Fantastic Beasts: Expanding the Universe
The Fantastic Beasts film series is a prequel set decades before the events of Harry Potter. While these films are part of the Wizarding World, they feature new characters and explore different aspects of the magical universe. The current films in the series are:
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022)
However, future installments of the Fantastic Beasts franchise are currently on hold, and their continuation is uncertain.
Where to Watch and Stream the Harry Potter Films
Accessing the Harry Potter films is easier than brewing a Polyjuice Potion. Numerous options are available, depending on your preference and location.
Streaming Services
The availability of Harry Potter films on streaming services varies by region and licensing agreements. Some of the most common streaming platforms that may offer the films include:
- HBO Max (now Max): This is often the most reliable source, as Warner Bros. (the studio behind the films) owns both HBO Max and the Harry Potter franchise.
- Peacock: Periodically, Peacock acquires the rights to stream the Harry Potter films.
- Netflix: In some regions, Netflix may stream the Harry Potter films. Check your local Netflix library for availability.
- Amazon Prime Video: While not always available for streaming as part of a Prime membership, you can often rent or buy the films through Amazon Prime Video.
It’s crucial to check the specific streaming service in your region to confirm availability. The streaming landscape is constantly changing, so always verify before subscribing.
Digital Retailers
Purchasing digital copies of the Harry Potter films offers permanent access without relying on streaming service availability. Popular digital retailers include:
- Amazon Prime Video: Purchase and stream the films.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Buy or rent the films.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Purchase and stream the films.
- Vudu: Buy or rent the films.
Physical Media
For those who prefer a tangible option, physical media (Blu-ray, DVD) remains a viable choice. Collector’s editions and special features are often available with physical releases.
Rumors and Speculation: The Future of Harry Potter on Screen
While there’s no “new” Harry Potter movie, the rumor mill is constantly churning. Recent reports suggest that Warner Bros. is developing a Harry Potter television series for HBO Max (now Max), adapting each of the seven books into a multi-season format. While this isn’t a movie, it provides a different medium to enjoy the beloved stories.
Details surrounding the series are still scarce, but the project is reportedly intended to be a faithful adaptation of the books, with each season focusing on a single book. Casting details and a release date are yet to be announced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about watching Harry Potter films.
1. Is there a new Harry Potter movie coming out soon?
No, there is currently no new Harry Potter movie scheduled for release. The last film released was Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore in 2022. While rumors persist, no official announcements regarding a sequel to the original series have been made. However, a Harry Potter TV series is reportedly in development.
2. Where can I watch all the Harry Potter movies online?
Availability varies by region. HBO Max (now Max) is generally the most reliable platform to find the Harry Potter films. Check your local streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video for options as well. You can also purchase or rent the films on digital retailers like Apple TV (iTunes) and Google Play Movies & TV.
3. Are the Fantastic Beasts movies connected to the main Harry Potter series?
Yes, the Fantastic Beasts movies are prequels to the Harry Potter series, set decades earlier in the same Wizarding World. They explore the history of magic and introduce characters who have indirect connections to the events of the main series.
4. Will the original cast be returning for any future Harry Potter projects?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for the original cast to return for a new movie. The rumored TV series is expected to feature a new cast.
5. Is the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child play being adapted into a movie?
There have been rumors about a potential Harry Potter and the Cursed Child movie adaptation, but no official announcements have been made. The play continues to be performed worldwide.
6. Where can I buy the Harry Potter movies on Blu-ray or DVD?
You can purchase the Harry Potter movies on Blu-ray or DVD from major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart. You can also find them at online retailers that specialize in movies and collectibles.
7. Is the Harry Potter series available in 4K Ultra HD?
Yes, the Harry Potter series is available in 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and digital formats. Check your preferred retailer or streaming service for availability.
8. Are there any special edition Harry Potter movie sets?
Yes, there are various special edition Harry Potter movie sets available, often including bonus content, behind-the-scenes footage, and collectible items. These sets can be found at major retailers and online marketplaces.
9. How many Harry Potter movies are there in total, including Fantastic Beasts?
In total, there are eleven films within the Wizarding World: eight Harry Potter films and three Fantastic Beasts films.
10. What is the order of the Harry Potter movies?
The correct order to watch the Harry Potter films is the order of their release:
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2
For the Fantastic Beasts films, watch them in release order after the Harry Potter series is complete:
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
- Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald
- Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore
11. Are there any animated Harry Potter movies?
Currently, there are no animated Harry Potter movies. All existing films are live-action adaptations.
12. How can I stay updated on future Harry Potter movie or TV series announcements?
The best way to stay informed is to follow reputable entertainment news sources like Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, and the official Wizarding World website. Social media accounts related to the franchise are also good sources of information. Avoid relying on unverified rumors from unreliable sources.