What Was the 1st Harry Potter Movie?

Actually, this is a bit of a silly question for a true Potterhead—they might just cast a Petrificus Totalus on you for even asking! 😂 Almost everyone knows that the first Harry Potter film is Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone—or, if you’re in the U.S., Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

Wait… why two different names? Let’s get into it!

Why Two Titles?

When J.K. Rowling’s book was first published in the UK in 1997, it was titled Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. This was a reference to the real-life legend of the Philosopher’s Stone, an ancient alchemical concept believed to grant immortality and turn metals into gold. Sounds pretty cool, right?

But when the book was set to be published in the U.S. in 1998, the American publisher, Scholastic, thought “Philosopher’s Stone” sounded too intellectual and not magical enough. They suggested Sorcerer’s Stone instead, thinking it would appeal more to young readers.

J.K. Rowling later admitted that she regretted agreeing to the change, but as a new author at the time, she didn’t have much say in the matter.

Did This Affect the Movie?

Yes! When Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was adapted into a film in 2001, Warner Bros. had to film two versions of several scenes:

1. Daniel Radcliffe and other actors had to say both “Philosopher’s Stone” and “Sorcerer’s Stone” in different takes.
   
   
2. Book covers, posters, and promotional materials were also changed for the U.S. release.
   
   3.  Even the script was adjusted, making sure all references to the Philosopher’s Stone were swapped out for the Sorcerer’s Stone in the American version.
   
   

Despite the title difference, the film itself remained the same—and it was nothing short of magical!

Bringing the Wizarding World to Life

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone introduced millions to J.K. Rowling’s magical world. We watched Harry, Ron, and Hermione step into the grand halls of Hogwarts, learn spells, face trolls, and uncover the mystery of the Philosopher’s Stone. From Diagon Alley’s cobbled streets to the Great Hall, the film truly brought magic to life.

The Brilliant Minds Behind the Film

1. Director: Chris Columbus (Home Alone, Mrs. Doubtfire)
2. Producer: David Heyman (who championed the Harry Potter films from the start)
3. Screenwriter: Steve Kloves (who stayed true to J.K. Rowling’s story)
4. Composer: John Williams (who gave us the legendary Hedwig’s Theme)

And let’s not forget the perfect cast:

1. Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter
   
   
2. Emma Watson as Hermione Granger
   
   
3. Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley
   
   
4. Maggie Smith as Professor McGonagall
   
   
5. Alan Rickman as Severus Snape
   
   
6. Richard Harris as Albus Dumbledore
   

Fun Facts About the Film

1.   Richard Harris (Dumbledore) almost turned down the role, but his granddaughter threatened never to speak to him again if he did! 😂

2.   Alan Rickman (Snape) was personally chosen by J.K. Rowling and was given secret details about Snape’s story arc that no one else knew at the time.

3.   The Great Hall set was actually built and still exists today as part of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London!

4.   The kids' reactions to the Great Hall were real—they were seeing the stunning set for the first time while filming.

A Magical Legacy

This film was just the beginning of an incredible journey. It grossed over $1 billion worldwide, setting the stage for seven more films, theme parks, spin-offs, and an ever-growing fanbase.

And if you’re a true Potterhead (or you’re shopping for one), why not treat yourself to some Harry Potter gifts? Whether it’s wands, house scarves, or limited-edition merchandise, we’ve got magical treasures waiting for you!

Visit our store or check out our website to explore fan-favourite Harry Potter goodies. Because no matter how many years pass, the magic of Harry Potter will always live on!