Harry Potter Not Just for Kids

Last weekend, movie fans and observers witnessed a real movie  phenomenon: The opening of the latest “Harry Potter” movie, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part II." 

The film grossed more money in a single weekend than any other film. It broke all box office records. Television networks showed young "Harry Potter” movie fans lined up for hours prior to the film’s opening.

Some of them were dressed in costume, mirroring the wizards and witches portrayed in the books and films. Seemingly, young people everywhere were excited to see this last film that was developed from author, J.K. Rowland’s popular book series.

What we didn’t notice in the long waiting theater lines or in the theater itself, were the many senior citizens who attended this weekend’s  opening.

There were several  senior adults in the audience of the movie theater where I attended and they were not all accompanied by children!

Apparently this series of books and films focusing on good versus evil has wide-spread appeal. The books, although written for children,  provides excitement and entertainment and has become a good read for both adults and children.

Some adults, particularly seniors, are reluctant to admit their fascination with the exploits of young Harry and his buddies, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley.

Some have been referred to as “closet” Potter fans. They pretend that they purchase the books for children or grandkids. But there’s no hiding the ones who show up at the movies sans children. Some adults are simply just as hooked as kids.

It’s true that many adults  began reading the books to youngsters, but  became interested in  Harry Potter’s progress as he discovered  his magical powers and entered  Hogwarts School  of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Some adult readers  are quite  familiar with “dementors“, “horcruxes,“ “You Know Who” and  “He Who Must Not be Named.” In fact it could be said that many adults and especially seniors would prefer that  “They Not be Known” as partakers of  this entertaining series. 

For those who don't mind that others know that they are Potter fans,  perhaps they would prefer a game of  “Quidditch”  instead of bridge or tennis?