The Harry Potter franchise is returning to screens with a new HBO series based on JK Rowling's books. Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the original films, has shared his thoughts on the upcoming adaptation.
Gary Oldman On The New Harry Potter Series
Gary Oldman believes the new HBO series can stay closer to JK Rowling's books and retain more of the character details that were left out of the films.
Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Oldman said the movies had to omit substantial portions of the books because of their runtime, resulting in the loss of considerable character detail. He believes the new series, with more time to tell the story, could be more satisfying for viewers.
Oldman had previously said Sirius Black, a character he particularly liked, did not receive enough screen time in the films.
Gary Oldman Is Proud Of The Films
Despite his views about the new series, Oldman remains proud of his work in the original Harry Potter films. He said he was grateful to be part of the franchise and called it a major phenomenon.
Oldman first played Sirius Black in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, which was released in 2004. He later returned for the next two films, and also a small role in the final movie in the franchise.
The actor also praised director Chris Columbus, who directed the first two movies. He credited Columbus with helping create the world of Harry Potter and bringing together the original cast.
Daniel Radcliffe played Harry Potter, Rupert Grint played Ron Weasley, and Emma Watson portrayed Hermione Granger.
About The New Harry Potter Series
The new HBO series stars Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The first season has finished filming and will premiere on HBO and HBO Max on December 25.
The series will adapt Rowling's seven books into seven seasons. The project is expected to take around eight to 10 years to complete.
The second season, based on the second book, is currently in pre-production at Leavesden Studios near London.
The cast also includes John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid.
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