Moviefone Editorial

Tag: daniel radcliffe

  • Warwick Davis Returning for ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series

    Warwick Davis with the Hogwarts 'Harry Potter' train. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Warwick Davis with the Hogwarts ‘Harry Potter’ train. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    Preview:

    • HBO’s Harry Potter series has Warwick Davis returning as Professor Flitwick.
    • Young actors Elijah Oshin, Finn Stephens and William Nash are also aboard.
    • The show will be on screens in 2027.

    While the vast majority of the HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series is brand new casting, the company used the latest “Back to Hogwarts” showcase (a promo event linked to the return of Hogwarts students to the school) to announced that Warwick Davis, who played Professor Filius Flitwick in the movies, will be back for the show.

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    On the new casting front, news arrived that another batch of Hogwarts students and faculty have been added, including Elijah Oshin as Dean Thomas, Finn Stephens as Vincent Crabbe, William Nash as Gregory Goyle, Sirine Saba as Professor Pomona Sprout, Richard Durden as Professor Cuthbert Binns, and Bríd Brennan as Madam Poppy Pomfrey.

    Related Article: ‘Harry Potter’ Series Shares First Look at Dominic McLaughlin as Harry

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in 'Harry Potter' (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in ‘Harry Potter’ (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    From the looks of the new casting, the series aims to replicate a lot about the movies, while also looking to chart its own course.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    'Harry Potter' TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).
    ‘Harry Potter’ TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).

    There are the big three: Dominic McLaughlin as Harry, alongside co-stars Arabella Stanton (Hermione Granger) and Alastair Stout (Ron Weasley).

    Bel Powley and Daniel Rigby are playing Petunia and Vernon Dursley, AKA Harry’s aunt and uncle, who begrudgingly take the boy in as a baby following the death of his parents at the hands of Voldemort.

    The couple –– who dote on overweight son Dudley (who we now know will be played by Amos Kitson) –– make Harry sleep in a cupboard under the stairs and have no time for the magical world he’ll come to be a key part of.

    Katherine Parkinson, meanwhile, has scored the role of Molly Weasley, the caring, offbeat mother of the Weasley clan, who come to see Harry as a member of the family).

    Bertie Carvel is on board as Cornelius Fudge, the blustering Minister of Magic.

    Lox Pratt will be Draco Malfoy (Harry’s main rival at Hogwarts) and Johnny Flynn is playing Lucius Malfoy, his preening, proud father.

    We also know that Leo Earley will be Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni scored the role of Parvati Patil, and Sienna Moosah is playing Lavender Brown, all three of them students at Hogwarts.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    Stage actor Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’), as recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    With production now under way on the series, HBO has at least confirmed that it will be hitting the streaming service in 2027, though an exact date has yet to be revealed.

    (L to R) Robbie Coltrane and Daniel Radcliffe in 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Robbie Coltrane and Daniel Radcliffe in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

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  • First Look at Dominic McLaughlin as HBO’s Harry Potter

    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in 'Harry Potter' (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in ‘Harry Potter’ (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    Preview:

    • The HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series has unveiled the first look at its title character.
    • And Anton Lesser, Louise Brealey, Rory Wilmot and Amos Kitson join the cast.
    • The show will be on screens in 2027.

    While we have already seen an image of ‘Harry Potter’ TV series star Dominic McLaughlin as Harry alongside his co-stars Arabella Stanton (Hermione Granger) and Alastair Stout (Ron Weasley).

    Now we have the first look at McLaughlin in his Hogwarts robes as the show has now entered production, along with a new set of casting choices.

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    Probably the best-known names of the latest ensemble members are Anton Lesser, recently seen in ‘Andor’, who has landed the role of wand shop proprietor Garrick Ollivander, and ‘Such Brave Girls’ Louise Brealey, playing Madam Rolanda Hooch, the Hogwarts flying instructor and Quidditch referee.

    Related Article: ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Adds Bel Powley, Bertie Carvel & More to Cast

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2' (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.

    Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    Gardiner scored the job of showrunner after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right writer/producer. Mylod will direct multiple episodes of the series, having worked on the likes of ‘Succession’ and ‘Game of Thrones.’

    The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    'Harry Potter' TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).
    ‘Harry Potter’ TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).

    Bel Powley and Daniel Rigby are playing Petunia and Vernon Dursley, AKA Harry’s aunt and uncle, who begrudgingly take the boy in as a baby following the death of his parents at the hands of Voldemort.

    The couple –– who dote on overweight son Dudley (who we now know will be played by Amos Kitson) –– make Harry sleep in a cupboard under the stairs and have no time for the magical world he’ll come to be a key part of.

    Katherine Parkinson, meanwhile, has scored the role of Molly Weasley, the caring, offbeat mother of the Weasley clan, who come to see Harry as a member of the family).

    Bertie Carvel is on board as Cornelius Fudge, the blustering Minister of Magic.

    Lox Pratt will be Draco Malfoy (Harry’s main rival at Hogwarts) and Johnny Flynn is playing Lucius Malfoy, his preening, proud father.

    We also know that Leo Earley will be Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni scored the role of Parvati Patil, and Sienna Moosah is playing Lavender Brown, all three of them students at Hogwarts.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    Stage actor Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’), as recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    What about the J.K. Rowling issue?

    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    ‘Potter’ creator and original novelist J.K. Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.

    This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:

    “Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

    Fiennes (yes, him again) weighed in on the issue when talking to The New York Times in 2022:

    “J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    With production now under way on the series, HBO Max has at least confirmed that it will be hitting the streaming service in 2027, though an exact date has yet to be revealed.

    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in 'Harry Potter' (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in ‘Harry Potter’ (TV series). Image courtesy of Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

    hMpBzPJR

  • ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Adds Nine More Cast Members

    (Left) Bel Powley in ’Turn Me On’. Photo: Vertical. (Right) Bertie Carvel in ‘The Crown’ Photo: Netflix / LeftBank.
    (Left) Bel Powley in ’Turn Me On’. Photo: Vertical. (Right) Bertie Carvel in ‘The Crown’ Photo: Netflix / LeftBank.

    Preview:

    • The HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series has added nine new faces.
    • Bel Powley, Bertie Carvel and Katherine Parkinson are among them.
    • Francesca Gardiner is running the show.

    Having locked in their Harry, Ron and Hermione plus a sprinkling of other casting, ‘Harry Potter’ TV series showrunner Francesca Gardiner and main director Mark Mylod have now found a whole host of other actors to fill some major and minor roles in the series.

    HBO announced that the likes of Bel Powley (‘The Diary of a Teenage Girl’), Bertie Carvel (‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’), Katherine Parkinson (‘The Boat that Rocked’), Johnny Flynn (‘Emma’) and Daniel Rigby (‘Black Mirror’) are aboard the show.

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    Powley and Rigby are playing Petunia and Vernon Dursley, AKA Harry’s aunt and uncle, who begrudgingly take the boy in as a baby following the death of his parents at the hands of Voldemort.

    The couple –– who dote on overweight son Dudley –– make Harry sleep in a cupboard under the stairs and have no time for the magical world he’ll come to be a key part of.

    Parkinson has scored the role of Molly Weasley, the caring, offbeat mother of the Weasley clan, who come to see Harry as a member of the family).

    Carvel, meanwhile, is on board as Cornelius Fudge, the blustering Minister of Magic.

    We’ll talk more about the others further down the page…

    Related Article: ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Finds Young Cast to be Harry, Ron and Hermione

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2' (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.

    Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    Gardiner scored the job of showrunner after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right writer/producer. Mylod will direct multiple episodes of the series, having worked on the likes of ‘Succession’ and ‘Game of Thrones.’

    The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger's 'Conclave', a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger’s ‘Conclave’, a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    This latest batch of casting announcements follows word that Dominic McLaughlin will be Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton has the role of Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout is playing Ron Weasley.

    The other new cast announced in the last day or so include newcomer Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy (Harry’s main rival at Hogwarts) and Flynn as Lucius Malfoy, his preening, manipulative father.

    We also know that Leo Earley will be Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni scored the role of Parvati Patil, and Sienna Moosah is playing Lavender Brown, all three of them students at Hogwarts.

    (Left) Nick Frost in 'Shaun of the Dead'. Photo: Universal Pictures. (Right) Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid in the 'Harry Potter' series. Photo: Warner Bros.
    (Left) Nick Frost in ‘Shaun of the Dead’. Photo: Universal Pictures. (Right) Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. Photo: Warner Bros.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    In addition, Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’) are recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    What about the J.K. Rowling issue?

    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    ‘Potter’ creator and original novelist J.K. Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.

    This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:

    “Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

    Fiennes (yes, him again) weighed in on the issue when talking to The New York Times in 2022:

    “J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    HBO CEO Casey Bloys recently said that he expects the show to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, which makes sense given that production isn’t likely to start until later this year.

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

    hMpBzPJR

  • ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Casts its Harry, Ron and Hermione

    (L to R) Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin, and Alastair Stout, leads of the new HBO 'Harry Potter' series. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
    (L to R) Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin, and Alastair Stout, leads of the new HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.

    Preview:

    • The HBO ‘Harry Potter’ series has found its Harry, Ron and Hermione.
    • Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout have the roles.
    • John Lithgow is playing Dumbledore.

    There is another chosen one.

    A chosen three, actually, as now we know who will be following in the high-profile footsteps of Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint as Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley in the ambitious new HBO series adapted from J.K. Rowling’s novels.

    The new actors are Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout.

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    Here’s the statement from showrunner Francesca Gardiner and main director Mark Mylod about the new casting choices:

    “After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, we are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen. We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It’s been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.”

    The process to find the Boy Who Lived and his two best friends has gone on for months and months, following a much-publicized open callout published by the show’s casting director Bevan, which asked for children aged between nine and 11 as of April 2025 who were residents of the UK and Ireland.

    The three are mostly newcomers, though McLaughlin has a role in the BBC’s upcoming action adventure series ‘Gifted’ while Stanton played Matilda in ‘Matilda The Musical’ in London’s West End across several months.

    Related Article:  HBO Confirms John Lithgow, Janet McTeer and more for ‘Harry Potter’ Series

    What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2' (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.

    Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:

    “The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”

    Gardiner scored the job of showrunner after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right writer/producer. Mylod will direct multiple episodes of the series, having worked on the likes of ‘Succession’ and ‘Game of Thrones.’

    The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.

    Who else has been cast in the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger's 'Conclave', a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (Left) John Lithgow stars as Cardinal Tremblay in director Edward Berger’s ‘Conclave’, a Focus Features release. Credit: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features ©2024 All Rights Reserved. (Right) Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore in ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    Previously, we learned that John Lithgow would be Albus Dumbledore, alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens), and they’ll make up part of the series regular cohort alongside the young newcomers.

    In addition, Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban’) are recurring guest stars.

    Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.

    What about the J.K. Rowling issue?

    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.' Photo: Warner Bros.
    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    ‘Potter’ creator and original novelist J.K. Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.

    This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:

    “Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”

    Fiennes (yes, him again) weighed in on the issue when talking to The New York Times in 2022:

    “J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”

    When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?

    HBO CEO Casey Bloys recently said that he expects the show to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, which makes sense given that production isn’t likely to start until later this year.

    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

    List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:

    Buy ‘Harry Potter’ Movies On Amazon

    hMpBzPJR

  • ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series in Development

    Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2' (2011)
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011)

    When a company has a property as lucrative and adaptable as the ‘Harry Potter’ novels, you just know it is going to leverage it to the hilt.

    That’s certainly the case with Warner Bros. Discovery (as it is known since the big merger), which has so far pumped out eight main movies, three ‘Fantastic Beasts’ big screen spin-offs, theme parks, websites and more merchandise than you can wave a toy wand at.

    Yet while there remains plenty of interest in ‘Potter’, the likes of the ‘Beasts’ movies haven’t been performing the way the company might prefer, nor are they setting fans’ hearts aflame.

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    As Warners keeps looking for more, what of streaming service HBO Max, which would benefit from some Potter-based TV content?

    There have been rumors about development on a TV series since before Warner Bros. and Discovery merged, with The Hollywood Reporter’s sources alerting it to the existence of something in the works back in 2021.

    Back then, there was little information about exactly what it might be. But from the looks of an update on the story via Bloomberg, things are getting closer to reality.

    Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

    Related Article: Watch ‘Harry Potter’ Movies in Order Including the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ Prequels

    What could the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series be?

    There are any number of options for a potential ‘Potter show. For a while, there has been talk of adapting successful stage play ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’, though there are fears it could cannibalize ticket sales (though let’s be honest, having ‘Hamilton’ on Disney+ hasn’t quenched audiences’ desire to see it live).

    Assuming Warners were to get author J.K. Rowling’s permission, there’s scope for a brand new story set in the ‘Potter’ universe, following different characters whose fates are not so set in stone (or paper).

    But according to the Bloomberg report, the push appears to be for a new streaming series adaptation of the seven original books. The studio apparently been meeting writers and showrunners to hear concepts for a new take on the novels.

    Conceivably, the show could run for seven or more seasons –– with one book per season (and possibly more, given that the movie series split the final tome, ‘The Deathly Hallows’ into two).

    A series offers plenty of potential to thoroughly re-imagine the stories for a new audience who have grown up on the books and movies since the originals. And with the expanded freedom of streaming series, elements that had to be dropped to avoid mammoth movie running times can be re-instated.

    Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.'
    (L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’

    Is JK Rowling aboard?

    Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her views on trans people.

    It appears Warners is putting A) ahead of B), in talks with the author to secure her agreement (and have her as creative consultant rather than running the show).

    WBD CEO David Zaslav is hoping to announce something about the show next week, having worked with HBO boss Casey Bloys to convince Rowling to agree (we’re envisioning the flying Ford Anglia from the second book with a trunk full of cash here) so now it’s a waiting game to see if it happens.

    Daniel Radcliffe, Michael Gambon, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in 'Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.'
    (L to R) Daniel Radcliffe, Michael Gambon, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in ‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.’

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  • 2023 Critics Choice Awards Winners

    Jamie Lee Curtis, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan, Michelle Yeoh, and James Hong in A24's 'Everything Everywhere All at Once.'
    (L to R) Jamie Lee Curtis, Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan, Michelle Yeoh, and James Hong in A24’s ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’

    As awards season trundled onward, Sunday night saw the Critics Choice Association Awards handed out at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.

    The star-studded affair (albeit slightly less star-studded thanks to the super-spreader event that was the Golden Globes, which saw the likes of Jamie Lee Curtis, Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell all laid low with Covid) blends film and TV awards, and in an attempt to keep the running time to a strict three hours (successfully, as it stands) weirdly squashed together certain categories, which meant that the likes of ‘Barry’s Henry Winkler and ‘Abbott Elementary’s Sheryl Lee Ralph ended up taking the stage at the same time, and taking turns to give their speeches one after the other.

    That was still better for those in some other categories, such as Cinematography and Best Animated Series, which were burned through in brief on-screen mentions without any of the recipients coming up to accept their trophies.

    Hosted by Chelsea Handler, the show had the usual mix of celebrity presenters, memorably Seth Rogen, who joked that the CW, where the awards show was airing, had zero nominations at the ceremony.

    It was another good night for the team behind ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’, which won five awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor for Ke Huy Quan, Best Editing and Best Original Screenplay.

    Though the movie’s Michelle Yeoh had been predicted to repeat her run of wins as Best Actress, that award went to Cate Blanchett for ‘Tár’, as the Critics Choice Ceremony had the feel of Everything Wins Something.

    Brendan Fraser in director Darren Aronofsky's 'The Whale' from A24.
    Brendan Fraser in director Darren Aronofsky’s ‘The Whale’ from A24.

    Brendan Fraser continued his own winning streak, offering up an emotional speech as he accepted Best Actor for ‘The Whale’. Angela Bassett gave a stirring speech as she took home Best Supporting Actress for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Popular action movie ‘RRR’, meanwhile, was named Best Foreign Language Film along with winning Best Song for “Naatu Naatu”.

    Other buzzed about movies made do with one win each, such as ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’s effects, and ‘Elvis’ hair and make-up team.

    On the TV front, it was a triumphant night for ‘Better Call Saul’, the ‘Breaking Bad’ spin-off enjoying some well-earned respect for its final season as it won Best Drama, Best Actor in a Drama for star Bob Odenkirk and Best Supporting Actor in a Drama for Giancarlo Esposito.

    ‘Abbott Elementary’ continued to do well, winning two awards, while Jennifer Coolidge was back on another stage, offering another funny speech as she won another trophy for ‘The White Lotus’.

    Blending first-timers (such as Jeremy Allen White for ‘The Bear’) and repeat winners (Jean Smart for ‘Hacks’ or Winkler for ‘Barry’), the TV categories, like their movie counterparts also spread the love around various shows.

    ‘The Dropout’, which stars Amanda Seyfried as Elizabeth Holmes, won for Seyfried and Best Limited Series, while ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’ landed Best Actor (for Daniel Radcliffe, who wasn’t present) and Best TV Movie.

    Jean Smart in ‘Hacks’ Season 2 for HBO Max.
    Jean Smart in ‘Hacks’ Season 2 for HBO Max. Photos by Karen Ballard.

    Here are the film winners…

    BEST PICTURE

    ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST ACTOR

    Brendan Fraser, ‘The Whale’

    BEST ACTRESS

    Cate Blanchett, ‘Tár’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

    Ke Huy Quan, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

    Angela Bassett, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’

    BEST YOUNG ACTOR

    Gabriel LaBelle, ‘The Fabelmans’

    BEST ACTING ENSEMBLE

    ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’

    BEST DIRECTOR

    Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

    Daniel Kwan & Daniel Scheinert, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

    Sarah Polley, ‘Women Talking’

    BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

    Claudio Miranda, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’

    BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN

    Florencia Martin, Anthony Carlino, ‘Babylon’

    BEST EDITING

    Paul Rogers, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’

    BEST COSTUME DESIGN

    Ruth E. Carter, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’

    BEST HAIR AND MAKEUP

    ‘Elvis’

    BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

    ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’

    BEST COMEDY

    ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’

    BEST ANIMATED FEATURE

    ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’

    BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

    ‘RRR’

    BEST SONG

    “Naatu Naatu”, ‘RRR’

    BEST SCORE

    Hildur Guðnadóttir, ‘Tár’

    Jennifer Coolidge in HBO's 'The White Lotus.'
    Jennifer Coolidge in HBO’s ‘The White Lotus.’ Photograph by Fabio Lovino/HBO.

    The TV winners can be found below…

    BEST DRAMA SERIES

    ‘Better Call Saul’

    BEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Bob Odenkirk, ‘Better Call Saul’

    BEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Zendaya, Euphoria’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Giancarlo Esposito, ‘Better Call Saul’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES

    Jennifer Coolidge, ‘The White Lotus’

    BEST COMEDY SERIES

    ‘Abbott Elementary’

    BEST ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES

    ‘Jeremy Allen White, ‘The Bear’

    BEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES

    Jean Smart, ‘Hacks’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES

    Henry Winkler, ‘Barry’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES

    Sheryl Lee Ralph, ‘Abbott Elementary’

    BEST LIMITED SERIES

    ‘The Dropout’

    BEST MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’

    BEST ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Daniel Radcliffe, ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’

    BEST ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Amanda Seyfried, ‘The Dropout’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Paul Walter Hauser, ‘Black Bird’

    BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A LIMITED SERIES OR MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION

    Niecy Nash-Betts, ‘Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’

    BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE SERIES

    ‘Pachinko’

    BEST ANIMATED SERIES

    ‘Harley Quinn’

    BEST TALK SHOW

    ‘Last Week Tonight with John Oliver’

    BEST COMEDY SPECIAL

    ‘Norm Macdonald: Nothing Special’

    Ke Huy Quan as Waymond Wang in A24's 'Everything Everywhere All at Once.'
    Ke Huy Quan as Waymond Wang in A24’s ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’
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  • Movie Review: ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’

    Daniel Radcliffe is "Weird" Al Yankovic in the Roku Channel's ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    Daniel Radcliffe is “Weird” Al Yankovic in the Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    Streaming via the Roku Channel, ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’ aims to do for parody song expert ‘Weird’ Al Yankovic what ‘Walk The Line’ did for Johnny Cash or ‘Ray’ for Ray Charles. Just in funnier form.

    More in line with parodies of the genre such as ‘Walk Hard’, ‘Weird’ takes the concept of the music star biopic and absolutely goes for broke in a style that recalls the ‘Naked Gun’ movies or the ‘Airplane!’ films of Jerry Zucker, Jim Abrams and David Zucker’s time.

    Yankovic, let’s not forget, made cameos in all three ‘Naked Gun’ films.

    Directed by Eric Appel, a veteran of the ‘Funny or Die’ site (and loosely based on short online trailer version hosted there, which stars ‘Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul as Yankovic), the film, co-written by Yankovic and Appel, chronicles a large swathe of Yankovic’s early life and career.

    Except, this is a far from factual account, which seems fitting for a man who has made a career out of funny parody songs, big hair and a talent for the accordion.

    His successful career – he’s the biggest-selling comedy recording artist of all time, with five Grammys under his belt, a 2014 release in ‘Mandatory Fun’ that became the first comedy album in history to debut at #1 on Billboard’s Top 200 and being one of only three artists to have had their own top 40 hits in each of the last four decades – is certainly material for a solid movie. But it’s much more entertaining that the musician and Appel have liberally invented milestones in his life.

    Daniel Radcliffe as 'Weird Al' Yankovic in The Roku Channel's 'Weird: The 'Weird Al' Yankovic Story.'
    Daniel Radcliffe as ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic in The Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic Story.’

    After an in media res opening with Yankovic being rushed into surgery, we’re introduced to young “Alfie” as a kid (played by Richard Aaron Anderson) who lives with his sensitive, understanding mother Mary (Julianne Nicholson) and his no-nonsense, god-fearing father Nick (Toby Huss), who expounds on his work at a local factory and how if Al would only agree to let him “put a word in”, the job would make a man out of him. Never mind that it has a higher fatality rate than ‘Spinal Tap’s drummers.

    Fate intervenes when a door-to-door accordion salesman (Thomas Lennon) stops by, and while he’s roundly assaulted by Nick for tempting the young Yankovic with the “demonic” instrument, Al’s mother quietly buys it for him in secret.

    That leads to a brief, even funnier section in which teenage Al (David Bloom) is introduced to the concept of polka parties where his skills make him a big hit – at least until the police raid the home of one of his friends.

    Soon, we’re catching up with college-age Al (now Daniel Radcliffe, who commits completely to the role, even if he doesn’t totally nail Yankovic’s voice), who in a memorable sequence, invents his first big parody song with ‘My Bologna’ after hearing The Knack’s ‘My Sharona’ on the radio while making sandwiches for his encouraging roommates.

    Making fun of movies such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, where famous songs are generated seemingly out of nowhere for dramatic effect, the tone here is purely one of fun.

    Quinta Brunson as Oprah Winfrey, and Daniel Radcliffe as "Weird Al" Yankovic in The Roku Channel's 'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    (L to R) Quinta Brunson as Oprah Winfrey, and Daniel Radcliffe as “Weird Al” Yankovic in The Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    With an assist from radio DJ Dr. Demento (Rainn Wilson) and a performance at a punk club that goes surprisingly well, Al is on his way, even if he has yet to impress snobby music executives (played amusingly by Will Forte and the real Yankovic, who has a blast demeaning and critiquing his avatar).

    Things snowball from there, with Yankovic becoming hugely famous, attracting the attention of Madonna (Evan Rachel Wood), who becomes his tempestuous lover and Pablo Escobar (Arturo Castro), his biggest fan – who will later cause problems for him.

    It’s a wild and wooly ride, going for broke at every moment and squeezing as much humor as possible out of Yankovic’s life with a hilariously fake history. Yet somehow, if often comes across as less preposterous as some real-life biopics.

    Radcliffe, who in his post-‘Harry Potter’ career has proved one of the most game and adaptable young actors, here shows comedy chops, slapping on a curly wig and fake Moustache to bring Al to life (with a little help from the real-life version when it comes to the songs).

    He’s vanity-free, nimble and funny, and matched in the leading stakes by Wood, who brings ‘Desperately Seeking Susan’-era Madonna to life with verve and an endless supply of chewing gum.

    Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna
    Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna in the Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    Real-life people crop up all over the place, usually played by comedians and comedy-focused actors including Quinta Brunson as Oprah Winfrey, Conan O’Brien as Andy Warhol, Akiva Shaffer as Alice Cooper and Jack Black as Wolfman Jack, who, along with Queen’s John Deacon (David Dastmalchian) challenges Al to come up with a new song at one of Demento’s pool parties.

    The result, like the ‘My Bologna’ scene, is the spontaneous birth of ‘Another One Rides the Bus’, sending Deacon off embarrassed.

    ‘Weird’s entertainment value dips a little towards the end, where the tone becomes ever zanier and the joke can’t quite sustain a full-length film, but before that happens, it has easily earned its place among great spoofs.

    Yankovic’s descent into the typical drink, drugs and sex scene of some hard partying rockers is even funnier when you know that in his real life, he’s a clean-living vegetarian whose late parents were incredibly supportive.

    This is an artist getting the chance to live out their fantasy of how their career might have turned out, were it not for the fact that they were successful on their own terms and never fell into such clichéd ways.

    We’re grateful he found a way to do it, though, as it makes for an even funnier story than some of his songs.

    ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’ receives 3.5 out of 5 stars.

    The Roku Channel's 'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    The Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’
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  • ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’ Cast Interviews

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    Premiering on The Roku Channel November 4th is biographical parody film ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story,’ which was directed by Eric Appel, and written by Appel and “Weird Al” Yankovic.

    The new film stars Harry Potter actor Daniel Radcliffe as Weird Al Yankovic and loosely tells the “true” story of Yankovic’s rise in the music business as a parody musician in the early 1980s.

    ‘Weird’ also depicts Yankovic’s discovery by radio personality Dr. Demento (Rainn Wilson), and his fictional romance with popstar Madonna (Evan Rachel Wood).

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Daniel Radcliffe and Evan Rachel Wood to talk about their work on ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story,’ the outrageous screenplay, portraying fictionalized versions of Yankovic and Madonna, and working with the real “Weird Al.”

    Evan Rachel Wood and Daniel Radcliffe star in The Roku Channel's 'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    (L to R) Evan Rachel Wood and Daniel Radcliffe star in The Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Radcliffe, Wood, Rainn Wilson, and co-writer and director Eric Appel.

    Moviefone: To begin with, Daniel, what was your first reaction to this outrageous screenplay and what was your approach to playing “Weird Al” Yankovic?

    Daniel Radcliffe: When I first read it, I immediately didn’t know what to expect. Then as soon as I started reading it, I was like, “Oh, right. What else could Weird Al’s biopic be other than a parody of biopics?” As soon as I realized what the joke was, I was like, “This is very clever, very funny and I’m in.”

    Once that is the jumping off point, once you’re doing the biopic where the point is not accuracy, then you kind of have permission to be like, “Oh, okay, I can get as close to Al as I can, but then we can truly start going to some really wild places as the movie goes on.”

    MF: Evan, you play Madonna, but you’re not really playing Madonna, you’re actually playing a fictionalized version of Madonna. Did that give you a certain amount of freedom while creating this character?

    Evan Rachel Wood: Yes. I mean, quite honestly, I don’t think I would’ve said yes to playing Madonna unless it was in this context, in a comedy, in somewhat of a parody. Otherwise, it just would’ve been too much pressure.

    So, it made it a little more relaxed, but I still took it quite seriously, because when you’re playing an icon like Madonna, you can’t just sort of breeze through it. So, I definitely did my research and watched a lot of interviews and performances to prepare for it.

    MF: What do you think the real Madonna’s reaction will be when she sees the movie?

    ERW: I mean, I think she’ll think it’s hilarious, I hope. She did actually reach out to Al for him to parody one of her songs so that part of the film is accurate. So, I’m going to go ahead and say that she’s going to like it.

    Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna
    Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna in the Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    MF: Daniel, you have a few scenes in the movie where you are playing “Weird Al” and the real “Weird Al” Yankovic is in the scene with you playing a different character. What was it like for you to work with him on set, was it surreal?

    DR: Those two scenes were our first and second day of shooting. I think particularly the one with Will Forte, where I stub out the cigarette in his hand. Those were nice scenes to do early, because I think they show the tone of the film and they establish it really well.

    Honestly, Al also having that wig on and not having his usual hair meant that people were walking past him the whole day. He was on set and people were saying, “Has anyone seen Al?” He’s like, “Yes, I’m right here.” But I think that was the most surreal thing about it was how unlike Al he looked in that moment.

    MF: Did Al give you any advice on how to play him, or how to play the according?

    DR: For sure. I mean, on set, most of his notes for me actually were on the accordion. He would just say, basically, that he didn’t want me to look as crap at the accordion as I naturally am. So, he was like, “Can you do it a bit more expansive and look like you know what you’re doing a bit more?” He said it more nicely than that. But other than that, he was a generally really encouraging presence on set.

    MF: Finally, Evan, was there one scene in the movie in particular that was especially fun for you to shoot?

    ERW: I mean, honestly, every day was incredibly fun to shoot. I never wanted to take off the Madonna wardrobe. At the end of the day it was always this kind of bummer moment of like, “Oh no. I have to take the bracelets and crucifixes off.”

    It’s just so fun. Everybody wanted to be Madonna in the eighties at some point in their lives. I don’t care who you are. So, honestly, it’s hard to pick one. They were all great!

    Daniel Radcliffe is "Weird" Al Yankovic in the Roku Channel's ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    Daniel Radcliffe is “Weird” Al Yankovic in the Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’
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  • ‘Weird’: Full Trailer for the Al Yankovic Story

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    We’re getting ever closer to the release of ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’, which has Daniel Radcliffe bringing the curly-locked comedy musician to screens for a biopic that only earns that title in the loosest of terms (on purpose).

    Now here comes the full trailer, which pitches the movie along the lines of ‘Walk Hard’, injecting a lot of a parody feel into Al’s life.

    There’s certainly a lot of material to draw from in the musician’s career to date: “Weird Al” Yankovic has enjoyed quite the career as the biggest-selling comedy recording artist of all time.

    A five-time Grammy winner, his 2014 release ‘Mandatory Fun’ was the first comedy album in history to debut at #1 on Billboard’s Top 200. He is one of only three artists to have had their own top 40 hits in each of the last four decades (the other two being, coincidentally, Michael Jackson and Madonna).

    On August 27, 2018, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce awarded Weird Al with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He has also popped up in a host of movies, shorts, and TV series, either as himself or other characters, and might be best known for indie comedy movie ‘UHF’, which was released in 1989.

    The Roku Channel's 'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    The Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    The new movie, which was spurred by Yankovic’s decision to chronicle his “depraved and scandalous” life (we’re still trying to figure out if he’s joking on that front) will chart his days spoofing the likes of the Madonna and Michael Jackson. He wrote the script alongside director Eric Appel, who has worked on projects such as ‘Silicon Valley’ and various Funny Or Die shorts (the comedy company is producing the movie alongside Tango).

    Radcliffe certainly looked the part in the initial imagery, and the teaser showed him doing a fair approximation of Yankovic’s trademark voice and singing style. Plus, he’s clearly been learning his way around an accordion. And it certainly does its job, making you want to see more from the movie, which also features Rainn Wilson, Julianne Nicholson, Quinta Brunson and Toby Huss among its cast.

    One of the highlights, though, would seem to be Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna, who ends up leading our hero astray in a torrid affair that sets him on a path to drugs and drink. Again, a lot of this is aiming to spoof the usual talent biopic.

    But it also looks like a lot of fun, with a fully committed performance by its star and more accordion moments than anyone truly asked for. But it’s Weird Al, so that comes with the territory.

    ‘Weird’ will premiere as part of the Midnight Madness strand at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival before becoming available on the Roku Channel from November 4th.

    Daniel Radcliffe is "Weird" Al Yankovic in the Roku Channel's ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    Daniel Radcliffe is “Weird” Al Yankovic in the Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’
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  • Quinta Brunson Playing Oprah in “Weird” Al Biopic

    Quinta Brunson as Oprah Winfrey, and Daniel Radcliffe as "Weird Al" Yankovic in The Roku Channel's 'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.'
    (L to R) Quinta Brunson as Oprah Winfrey, and Daniel Radcliffe as “Weird Al” Yankovic in The Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    The casting reveals continue to arrive for ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’. According to a new picture, ‘Abbott Elementary’ creator, writer and actor Quinta Brunson is aboard the film, playing entertainment icon Oprah Winfrey.

    She’s pictured alongside Daniel Radcliffe, who plays comedy musician “Weird” Al Yankovic in a closet full of his colorful clothing.

    Yankovic has enjoyed quite the career as the biggest-selling comedy recording artist of all time.

    A five-time Grammy winner, his 2014 release ‘Mandatory’ Fun was the first comedy album in history to debut at #1 on Billboard’s Top 200. He is one of only three artists to have had their own top 40 hits in each of the last four decades (the other two being Michael Jackson and Madonna, both of whom Al has parodied in his time).

    Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna
    Evan Rachel Wood as Madonna in the Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.’

    On August 27, 2018, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce awarded “Weird” Al with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He has also popped up in a host of movies, shorts, and TV series, either as himself or other characters, and might be best known for indie comedy movie ‘UHF’, which was released in 1989.

    Oprah certainly has her own story – wrangling her way into a career as a TV talk show host, she’s long since built a global empire in addition to winning awards as an actor and producer. According to the latest update from the movie, Brunson’s role is more of a cameo.

    The movie, which was spurred by Yankovic’s decision to chronicle his “depraved and scandalous” life (he’s probably joking on that front) will chart his days spoofing his fellow musicians. He wrote the script alongside director Eric Appel, who has worked on projects such as ‘Silicon Valley’ and various Funny Or Die shorts (the comedy company is producing the movie alongside Tango).

    Radcliffe certainly looks the part, and the teaser showed him doing a fair approximation of Yankovic’s trademark voice and singing style. Plus, he’s clearly been learning his way around an accordion. And it certainly does its job, making you want to see more from the movie, which also features Evan Rachel Wood (as Madonna) Rainn Wilson (as radio personality Dr. Demento), plus Julianne Nicholson and Toby Huss (as Al’s parents) among its ensemble.

    And, according to the latest release, “an A-list cast of thousands their agents won’t let us reveal.”

    Brunson has been celebrating some awards history recently, becoming the first Black woman to earn three Emmy nominations in the comedy categories in the same year for ‘Abbott Elementary’. The high-school-based comedy has also seen high ratings and a quick second-season renewal from network ABC.

    She also has credits including ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ and ‘Miracle Workers’, which stars Radcliffe.

    ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’ will be on the Roku Channel this fall, though there’s no strict date for its release yet.

    Daniel Radcliffe as 'Weird Al' Yankovic in The Roku Channel's 'Weird: The 'Weird Al' Yankovic Story.'
    Daniel Radcliffe as ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic in The Roku Channel’s ‘Weird: The ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic Story.’
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