Can you believe this November will mark the 20th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire being released in cinemas? Two whole decades since we first watched the champions be chosen? Luckily, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London has the perfect way to celebrate this milestone with their brand-new feature dedicated to the fourth film.
Last night we had the chance to admire all the additions to the Studio Tour – from filmmaking secrets to creating our own origami dragon – here are just a handful of our highlights…
It’s all about those first impressions
The moment we stepped into the Studio Tour, we were transported back to the magic of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire – from the champions in the lobby to the Experience Corridor that left us feeling like we were in the maze from the third task. And that was all before we got to witness the Great Hall in all its fourth film glory – bringing Mad-Eye Moody’s arrival to life with dazzling lights and sound effects.
We uncovered some secrets at the new Backlot Stage
This was a new addition that we couldn’t wait to see – and it didn’t disappoint. For the first time ever, the Studio Tour have introduced their new Backlot Stage that showcases the Secrets of Special Effects. If you’ve ever wondered just how filmmakers were able to create a Hungarian Horntail or film a task that takes place entirely underwater, you won’t want to miss this. Honestly, it was one of the highlights of our evening. We don’t want to spoil the magic, but we will say that plenty of behind-the-scenes secrets were spilled… and you’ll never look at the second Triwizard task in the same way again.
Beauxbatons and Durmstrang show their school spirit
Who can forget the scene where we first met the other two schools competing for the Triwizard Cup? Their choreographed routines? Iconic. Yesterday, we got to relive that moment with a demonstration reminiscent of their arrival – and you definitely wouldn’t call their dance moves ‘Krum-my’! We always loved their school robes (they’re better than any Muggle uniform) and were pleased to learn more about what went into creating their memorable looks.
Do you dare to put your name in the Goblet of Fire?
Keep hold of your Activity Passport – it could be the key to your own eternal glory. In the wand room we plucked up the courage to put our own names into the Goblet of Fire (using a special page from the Passport). Are you worthy of becoming a champion? Ok, you might not end up in an actual Triwizard Tournament, but other rewards await…
A few familiar faces
Dotted around the Studio Tour were plenty of easter eggs for fourth film fans and we had a lot of fun trying to pick out all the details. We spotted Harry and Hagrid in the Forbidden Forest – recreating the scene where Hagrid revealed a few important first task details. Neville poised and ready to practice his dance moves in the Gryffindor Boys’ Dormitory – we’ll always give him top marks for enthusiasm. And even Rita Skeeter with her poison pen (ok, Quick-Quotes Quill) – her stories were horrible, but her outfits were spectacular.
We got to make our own dragon!
Who doesn’t love a dragon? We know we’ve always admired these fearsome beasts. On Platform 9 ¾ we had the chance to put our origami skills to the test – creating a dragon of our very own to bring home! Unlike the Hungarian Horntail that Harry faced, the worst thing this dragon could do is give us a papercut not accidentally incinerate us.
Speaking of dragons…
On Monday, London had a fiery friend roaming the streets in celebration of the launch of the Studio Tour’s new Triwizard Tournament feature. Did you spot the Hungarian Horntail in transit – whizzing past landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and King’s Cross Station before returning to its rightful home at the Studio Tour? Did you witness its fearsome roar as it tried to escape its chains? This huge (1.3 tonne), animatronic dragon was quite the spectacle. Don’t worry if you missed it – you can read all about this dragon adventure right here.
Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions will run from 15th May – 8th September and all new features are included in the ticket price.
For more information or to book tickets, don’t forget to check out the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London website.
