Potter Fans Gather for Midnight Showings

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part II drew a crowd of hundreds of fans to the AMC Loews theater Thursday evening awaiting the long anticipated premiere of the series' final installment.

The film, which sold out days ago, attracted followers of all ages - many dressed in the costumes of their favorite characters.

Prior to the midnight showing, the Levittown theater showcased Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part I to give fans a little something extra on a day that many viewed as bittersweet.

Jessica Owen, 24, has been a fan of the Potter series for over a decade and made sure to attend one of the first viewings.

"I am expecting Harry Potter and all of Hogwarts to kick butt and kill Voldemort," she said. "I have a feeling this will be my favorite film so far."

Jesse Lyons, a Levittown resident, has also been a longtime fan and could not wait to get in the theater.

"I hope it ties up all the loose ends successfully," the 22-year old Potter-enthusiast said. "I know it has to end and I'm both excited and distraught that this adventure has finally come to a close."

Jocelyn Pascucci has been an avid fan for more than half of her life and felt confident the final portion will live up to the rest of the series. Pascucci also felt that some people look down upon the phenomenon before giving it a real chance.

"I think more people should give it a shot and not discard it before they read the books," the East Meadow resident said.

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