Final Harry Potter Ends With Emotional Bang

Moviegoers bid wistful goodbye to international phenomenon

July 15, 2011

Harry has a final confrontation with Voldemort in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 2,' the final installment in the film series.

The global release of “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows — Part 2,” brings the famous movie franchise to an emotional, action-packed end.

Thousands of fans are gathering at movie theaters the world over to say goodbye to “the boy who lived” as well as the magical world of Hogwarts, created by British author J.K. Rowling.

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 2” chronicles Harry's last battle with Voldemort, the most evil of all wizards.

This final installment is a fast-paced epic which offers grand special effects and a narrative packed with emotion. The Harry Potter series has captivated the planet. Billions of people have read the books and many are determined to watch Harry Potter's final journey on the large screen — in 3D no less.

The film first opened in London, where 8,000 people poured into Trafalgar Square to greet the actors who portrayed the beloved characters. J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter's creator, thanked the actors.

“They cannot know how much I love them," she said. "What amazing things they did to my favorite characters. I just thank them for lending us their talent and all their hard work.”