There are few cultural phenomena that inspire as much rabid devotion as beloved books and the movies they spawn. (I’ve been trying to think of something comparable for five to seven minutes and have so far only landed on Nutella. Or maybe peanut butter, but only if you’re an American traveling in Europe.) J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series is no exception, with faithful disciples all over the world demonstrating their loyalty by getting tattoos or investing in impressive wedding invitations or nicknaming their high school friend group “The HP Five” without realizing that, more than a decade later, people would still refer to them as such (no linkable proof on that one, but you can trust me because I’m talking about myself. And I’m thrilled about it).
Photograph by Will McCance
These are the types of fanatics who turned up at the Hollywood Bowl yesterday for a screening on Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone accompanied by the musicians of the LA Phil, cheering (when Harry finds the perfect wand; when Alan Rickman made his first appearance onscreen as Snape) and jeering (when Malfoy takes a dig at Ron; when Professor Quirrell is introduced) at all of the right moments. And, of course, they dressed for the occasion. Here’s a look at some of the best and most creative costumes from the night:
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
Photograph by Will McCance
