First Look Images At NYC's Harry Potter Store Opening in June

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Recently released photos from Warner Bros. provide an exclusive look at the new Harry Potter store in New York, which is scheduled to open in June. The much-beloved franchise, adapted from the titular series by J.K. Rowling, continues to bring in a new generation of readers and film lovers alike. Originally debuting in 2001, the film adaptation of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone kicked off an eight-installment run that spanned more than a decade. In conjunction with the wildly popular source material, the movies heavily shaped the broader pop culture realm, inspiring prequels, merchandise, and midnight parties to celebrate each new release. In 2011, the American Film Institute celebrated the franchise’s critical impact with a Special Award dedicated to the cinematic achievements of Harry Potter.

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While the series continues to endure, its legacy has currently undergone greater scrutiny in light of Rowling’s transphobic online writings and tweets throughout the past year. Despite rising criticism, Rowling doubled down on her anti-trans stance. In response, many actors from the series spoke up to openly condemn the author’s comments and re-establish their support for the trans community, including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint. Yet, despite the controversy, the Harry Potter franchise remains a popular staple of the Warner Bros. vault, resulting in multiple projects invested in exploring the world of wizards and wizardry.

RELATED:What JK Rowling's Anti-Trans Controversy Means For Fantastic Beasts 3

As reported exclusively by EW, new images of the Harry Potter flagship store, located near the Flatiron Building, offer a glimpse of what visitors can expect. Karl Durrant, VP and General Manager of Warner Bros. Retail Destinations, shared a breakdown of core items available to see in the space:

"We at Warner Bros. are in a very uniquely privileged position to work directly with the filmmakers…Thanks to this collaboration, we're bringing authentic props that come directly from the films and also authentic recreations. From the Harry Potter films, you'll be able to find Harry's authentic wand on display, as well as Ron's, Hermione's, and Dumbledore's wands. We have the original Golden Snitch, Harry's broomstick, Tom Riddle's diary with a basilisk's fang in the middle of it, and many other items."

 

The three-floor store is the first of its kind to include fifteen theme areas delving into magical arenas unavailable at other locations, such as an interactive wand table and virtual reality experiences. It also contains the largest collection of items from Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts, harboring unique products that can only be bought there. Aside from Ollivander’s at Universal, it is also the only other venue where visitors can purchase personalized wands. Durrant noted the long-lasting power of the Wizarding World, noting, "It's been a really tough period in people's lives and by opening the Harry Potter store in the heart of New York City, we're looking forward to bringing some magic back into people's lives.”

Undoubtedly, the Harry Potter store will draw in large crowds upon its summer opening. Many fans remain incredibly loyal and passionate consumers of any and all ventures related to the nostalgic magic of The Boy Who Lived. At the same time, fans must also grapple with the tarnished reality of Rowling’s legacy, one that rightfully continues to be questioned due to her transphobia. There is indeed magic in the series, but there are also real-life costs that deserve examination.