The wizarding world is casting its spell once more on UK cinemas! Get ready to relive the magic of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, the film that started it all 25 years ago. The big-screen revival, taking place between 27 August and 3 September 2026, will be a treat for fans who grew up alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione – or those discovering the series for the first time. And, just to make it an even more unmissable experience, 12 minutes of previously unseen behind-the-scenes footage will be shown in every screening.
First conjured on the big screen on 16 November 2001, Philosopher's Stone introduced Daniel Radcliffe as the Boy Who Lived, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson as his loyal sidekicks. Under Chris Columbus' direction, this film set the stage for eight more movies that captured global audiences, culminating in 2011. While the additional footage is exclusive to Philosopher's Stone, all eight films will be back on the big screen during the same week – a real treat for die-hard Potterheads.
The 'Back To Hogwarts' celebrations are well underway, with these cinema showings part of the annual festivities. Typically taking place around 1 September, this year's programme promises to deliver more fan events worldwide and an online showcase packed with announcements related to the franchise. The enduring popularity of the series continues to bewitch British audiences – many of whom grew up alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
The anniversary couldn't have come at a more pivotal moment for Potter fans: just months before the highly anticipated HBO television adaptation hits our screens on Christmas Day 2026. This new take on J.K. Rowling's stories will be set in the same universe as the original films but promises fresh perspectives and exciting storylines. With production commencing at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in 2025, Dominic McLaughlin, Alastair Stout, and Arabella Stanton cast as the new trio, the excitement is palpable – even if some fans are still debating whether another adaptation was needed.
However, not all has been smooth sailing for the HBO production. Cinematographer Adriano Goldman recently described filming as "brutal" due to restrictions on young actors' working hours, while J.K. Rowling's anti-trans views have raised eyebrows among some fans. Even so, John Lithgow and Nick Frost have spoken out in defence of the project, with Paapa Essiedu revealing he's faced racist abuse and death threats as Severus Snape.