When you think of Harry Potter, you probably think of J.K. Rowling’s wildly popular series of novels and the eight blockbuster films based on them. But what about all the other people who love Harry Potter too?
There are tons of talented filmmakers out there who have made their own movies or YouTube videos inspired by the books and films – some even starring professional actors!
Some of these fan-made productions may not be as polished as Warner Bros., but they often provide a fresh perspective that is equally entertaining to die-hard fans and newcomers alike!
So, if you’ve ever wanted to see what would happen if Draco Malfoy was a good guy? Or how Neville Longbottom became the headmaster of Hogwarts? Well, thanks to the wonders of modern technology, you can explore these questions and more!
What is a Harry Potter Fan Film?
A Harry Potter fan film is a movie or video created by fans of the Harry Potter series, using elements from the books and films. These films are often creative, imaginative, and provide a new perspective on the characters and story.
The first Harry Potter fan film was made in 2001, just four years after the release of the first book. Since then, the fan film genre has exploded in popularity, with new films being crowdfunded or released every year.
What Makes a Good Harry Potter Fan-Made Film?
Not all Harry Potter fan films are created equal. In order to be successful, a fan film must capture the essence of the Harry Potter series while also adding something new and original without being too cheesy.
Plus, it helps if the fan film is well scripted, acted and directed to keep the viewers engaged and immersed in the storyline.
Are Harry Potter Fan Films Legal?
While it is not, per se illegal to shoot a Harry Potter movie, there are some copyright and trademark issues that could come up if you publish them publicly without acquiring the rights.
However, as long as the fan film or movie is not made with the intention of generating revenue, there are many production companies that do not take any legal steps to stop fan films.
The reason for this is because it’s free PR and a good way of connecting with their most committed fans, which can sell more merch in return!
If you like reading: Harry Potter Fanfics Good Enough to Be Canon
Why Watch Harry Potter Fan Films?
Harry Potter fan films are a great way to explore the wizarding world in ways that books and movies never could. They are also a great way to see how other people interpret the characters and storylines and develop new and original arcs.
Plus, these days they are often very entertaining and well made, providing a fresh perspective on the Harry Potter series. So, if you’re looking for some light-hearted entertainment, check out some of the best Harry Potter fan films out there!
What to Expect from Harry Potter Fan Films?
You can expect to see a wide variety of genres, styles and levels of quality in Harry Potter fan films. However, the best ones will always be well made, entertaining and provide a fresh perspective on the wizarding world.
Fan films are also made by fans so they will usually have a cool undertone in keeping with the original characters although there are some fan films that explore different relationships and dynamics between the characters or dive into backstory that was not explored in the original material.
What is the Future of Harry Potter Fan Films?
With all this talk about how exciting it is to watch people take beloved stories and characters into bold new directions; you might be wondering what sort of impact fan films will have on pop culture in the future. Well, that’s hard to say, but it’s definitely exciting to think about!
After all, fan films are a great way to show how powerful and creative the Harry Potter fandom is. So, if you enjoy watching them, with the technology that is readily available to almost everyone, don’t be surprised if they become even more popular in the years to come!
10 Best Harry Potter Fan Films
These productions are creative, imaginative and provide a fresh perspective on the characters and story. So, what are you waiting for? Check out some of the best Harry Potter fan films out there! You won’t be disappointed!
1. Mudblood
Director: Conrad Faraj
Total Runtime: 01:41:39
About: Step into the wizarding world of Mudblood! Broken down into 3 parts, this fan-made film set in the Harry Potter universe is a must-watch for all fans of the series.
Part 1 – After fleeing from Hogwarts, Muriel Warrington must use her magic to protect herself from the Death Eaters who are hot on her heels.
Part 2 – After avoiding capture by Bellatrix’s death eaters, Muriel Warrington finds herself haunted by dark memories as she recalls her time at Hogwarts. Meanwhile skilled Auror Merlin Evergreen must formulate a plan to save himself from his wretched past.
Part 3 – Muriel Warrington is being held hostage by The Sisters, but Merlin and Alvin have a chance to save her. They face certain dangers during their rescue mission as they uncover greater evil that will emerge from Muriel’s past; it all leads up to an epic battle for Voldemort’s horcrux in the shape of Helga Hufflepuff’s cup at Hogwarts School.
A conclusion where darkness meets light with fate hanging on every decision made…
Made by fans for fans and the love of the series is felt throughout. So grab some popcorn and settle in for a magical experience!
Project Fiction Says: This film feels professionally made, from the cinematography to special effects and acting, it certainly feels like a film with a far bigger budget than it likely had.
2. Mischief Managed
Director: Suzy Shepherd
Runtime: 00:27:10
About: Grab your wands and step back into the wizarding world with MISCHIEF MANAGED, an enchanting student-made fan film set in the Harry Potter universe.
This spellbinding short tells the story of Lily Evans, Severus Snape, and the Marauders during their 7th year at Hogwarts, on Valentine’s Day 1978. Watch as Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs put their mischievous skills to good use, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
A beautiful and nostalgic tribute to the Harry Potter universe, this short film is sure to keep you entertained!
Project Fiction Says: The set (even down to the moving paintings) and the costumes are excellent, and the casting is perfect making this feel extremely authentic.
3. Voldemort: Origins of the Heir
Director: Suzy Gianmaria Pezzato
Runtime: 00:52:40
About: Hold on to your broomstick, we go back, waaaaaay back to a magical but murky past.
The story follows the heir, Tom Riddle, in his quest to find out who he is and where he comes from. This fan film does an excellent job of giving us a back story that we never knew we needed and makes us absolutely crave more.
This story is considered by many to be the best prequel that exists in the world of Harry Potter and although it is not officially canon; it becomes headcanon for almost all that watch it.
Project Fiction Says: When you sit back and begin to watch this, you will be forgiven for forgetting that this is a fan film and not a big-screen blockbuster. The quality is so good, with extremely high production values and a gripping story that will keep you entertained all the way through.
4. Sisters of House Black
Director: Thomas Fisher & Petros Ioannou
Runtime: 00:42:38
About: Step into the world of Harry Potter and see things from a whole new perspective.
Sisters of House Black is an unofficial prequel fan film that tells the story of Bellatrix Lestrange, Andromeda Tonks, and Narcissa Malfoy – three sisters who must make some tough decisions in order to survive Voldemort’s first rise to power.
With stunning visuals and an engrossing story, this film is a must-see for any Harry Potter fan. More headcanon? You decide!
Project Fiction Says: The depth and complexity of this fan film are truly inspiring. The script, art direction (including the stunning visuals), casting; it’s all top-notch!
5. Severus Snape and the Marauders
Director: Justin Zagri
Runtime: 00:25:33
About: Step into the world of magic and wizardry with Severus Snape and the Marauders, an unofficial prequel fan film set in 1978.
Witness the exploits of James Potter and his friends Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew as they celebrate their graduation from Hogwarts and prepare for the coming war. But when Severus Snape enters the same bar, things take a turn for the worse, and James Potter decides he must finally confront his nemesis.
Featuring well-known characters from the Harry Potter series in their younger days, this is one fan film you won’t want to miss!
Project Fiction Says: The story is solid; the acting is great and the dialogue feels authentic. This short film has a high-budget cinematic quality about it; making it feel like an official release.
6. The Founders: The Ravenclaw Ghost
Director: L.A. Dubos
Runtime: 00:26:50
About: Experience the wizarding world of Hogwarts like you haven’t before with French-made The Ravenclaw Ghost, the first film in The Founders saga.
Follow Helena Ravenclaw as she flees her home country and returns to see her mother for the last time. This riveting tale of the Hogwarts founders will take you back in time and is sure to keep you entertained from beginning to end.
With English subtitles, you will be able to follow along as the story unfolds in this first installment of The Founders saga.
Project Fiction Says: The production values of this film are so high it’s as if they were making a big-budget studio film. Captivating from the very beginning.
7. Minerva & The Wicked Heist
Director: Rona Walter
Runtime: 00:04:29
About: Minerva McGonagall is one of the most legendary witches of all time, and this short film gives a glimpse into her career as a law enforcement agent for the Ministry of Magic.
In 1957, Minerva is investigating her final case while she waits for news from Hogwarts about her future. This film is full of magic, adventure, and suspense, and provides the first cinematic backstory for one of the Harry Potter franchise’s most beloved characters.
So if you’re looking for an exciting new fan film to watch, or just want to see more of Minerva McGonagall’s story, check out Minerva & The Wicked Heist today!
Project Fiction Says: This is a fantastic short that leaves you wanting more. Parts 2 & 3 are currently being crowdfunded so we will update once they are available.
8. Neville Longbottom and The Black Witch
Director: Kali Bailey
Runtime: 00:16:38
About: Step into the shoes of Neville Longbottom and join him on his quest to take down Bellatrix Lestrange in this exciting fan film.
Watch as Neville confronts his fears and takes on one of Voldemort’s most loyal and devoted followers. With stunning visuals, this engaging story of Neville Longbottom is a real tear-jerker.
Neville Longbottom and The Black Witch is the fan film we all needed.
Project Fiction Says: This film has been written, performed, and portrayed perfectly. The actress playing Bellatrix is absolutely bone-chilling in her portrayal of the dark witch.
9. Son of the Moon
Director: Linn Iren Oland
Runtime: 00:14:23
About: Step back in time to the time leading up to the first wizarding war and watch Remus Lupin fight for his life in this action-packed short fan film from the Potterverse.
Son of the Moon is an exciting addition to the magical world of Harry Potter. See how Lupin handles a deadly encounter with an old foe as they try and prepare for the dark times ahead.
With great acting and impressive visual effects, this film is sure to please all fans of Harry Potter. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy Son of the Moon today.
Project Fiction Says: This project shows what can be achieved with a shoestring budget and a lot of love. Imagine what these guys could achieve with just a 10th of a big-screen budget.
10. Lily Evans and the Stroke of Midnight
Director: Sarah Caldwell
Runtime: 00:26:59
About: Experience the Marauders Era like never before with Lily Evans and the Stroke of Midnight!
In this exciting fan film, you’ll get a snapshot of Lily and her friends during their final year at Hogwarts. With new friendships and relationships formed, loyalties will be tested as an unlikely enemy emerges.
Who is right, and who is wrong? It’s up to you to decide!
Project Fiction Says: Even the purist of fans of the original JKR books will love this film. It is a great production all around.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for more of that Harry Potter magic, these 10 unofficial Harry Potter films are definitely worth your time.
These are the Best Harry Potter fan films around at this time. Thanks to these talented filmmakers and their love of the Potterverse, you can explore new ideas and old ones! These films are creative, imaginative and will bring the missing magic back into your life.
Did You Know?
“At the time of writing, Voldemort: Origins of the Heir has over 18 million views on YouTube!”
“None of the above films are endorsed by Warner Bros or JKR. They are all made by fans, for fans!”
“The 3-part film Mudblood has a total runtime of 01:41:39 making it longer than the average length of a big-screen feature!”
FAQ’s
How many Harry Potter fan films are there?
It is impossible to answer how many Harry Potter fan films there are because with the advances in cinematic technology, the list continues to grow all the time.
Is it hard to make a Harry Potter fan film?
Although many of the films on this list were made with very limited budgets and resources, it still takes a great deal of skill to produce something spectacular. From acting to directing and editing, a lot of work goes into these films.
Are Harry Potter fan films endorsed by Warner Bros?
No, Harry Potter fan films are not endorsed by Warner Bros. or JKR. They are all made by fans, for fans!
