'Harry Potter' Fans Flock to Mattituck for New Movie

Moviegoers young and old filled on Friday night to see the first part of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows."

The movie, which is based on J.K. Rowlings seventh and last book in the Harry Potter series, already grossed $24 million from its midnight showings on Thursday. Potter fans have notoriously lined up early — often in costume — to see the series. In some theaters across the country, fans reported to wait over 11 hours in lines.

In Mattituck, Friday night's crowd was generally older with mostly teenagers and adults. The assistant manager of Mattituck Cinemas said that though he was expecting big crowds for the movie, lines there hadn't been too bad. He stated he hadn't seen any crazed fans or costumes yet but that several shows were already sold-out.

"It was dark and scary" said one teen. "But it was really good."

The Harry Potter books and movies have generated billions of dollars and fans as well as a good amount of controversy. Some Christian groups have protested the movies, stating that the series promotes the occult and are too dark and scary for children.

A 35-year-old woman who called herself an "adult who loves Harry" said that she thought people of all ages are fond of the movies because they have a moral ambiguity and adult themes.  

"Like a lot of childrens' movies and books, Harry Potter has something for adults too," she said.

Lauren Combs, 17, said that she loved the movie.

"I liked the characterisation and love the magic in it — it was a great escape," she said.  

Most of the moviegoers said they'd seen all of the prior movies and read the books.  

"If you've seen just a few of the movies, you'll get it," said Melissa, 15. "But if you have no idea who Harry Potter is, you'll be lost."

Michelle Rebentisch, 28,  of Cutchogue said that she wasn't familiar with the Potter books or movies and had come along with friends.

"There were some characters and plots that were really unfamiliar to me," she said. "But generally it was a good movie. I knew that this was an ongoing story, so I didn't expect to understand everything." 

Most people said that the 2 and 1/2-hour show went quickly and was entertaining the whole time.

Many people complained that the movie ended too abruptly and said they were anxious for the second movie to come out so they can know what happens. Many moviegoers said that they did not like that the movie was split into two parts.  

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" plays on Saturday at Mattituck Cinemas at 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 9:20 p.m. Call 631-298-7469 for more showtimes.

Fans will have to wait several more months to see what happens to Harry Potter. The second and final movie is set for release in July of 2011.