Watch Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts

"Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts" is a celebratory reunion special that invites fans and viewers to a magical, nostalgic journey, marking two decades since the release of the first film in the iconic Harry Potter film series, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." The special, released in 2022, brings together many of the beloved cast members and creative forces behind the film series for a warm-hearted look back at the making of cinematic history.

Stepping back into the hallowed halls of Hogwarts, the special is studded with the appearances of series veterans, among them Gary Oldman, who flawlessly portrayed the enigmatic and deeply complex character, Sirius Black. Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe, who grew up on screen as the intelligent and kind-hearted Hermione Granger and the brave and loyal Harry Potter respectively, also join the reunion, reminiscing about their experiences and the extraordinary journey they undertook together.

The reunion special offers viewers an intimate look at the bonds formed on set, the challenges overcome by the cast and crew, and the unforgettable memories created during the production of the eight-film series. Through candid conversations, the actors reveal insights into their characters, share personal stories from behind the scenes, and discuss how the films have affected their lives and careers.

Fans are given a unique opportunity to witness the franchise's most iconic moments through the eyes of those who brought them to life. The cast discusses how they navigated the pressures of growing up in the spotlight, the relationships they forged with each other, and how the themes of love, friendship, and courage from the Harry Potter series have resonated with audiences across the globe.

The cast is joined by the filmmakers, including directors, producers, and crew members who worked tirelessly to translate the magic of J.K. Rowling's beloved books onto the big screen. Their reflections dive into the creative processes that helped shape the films' success, from immense set design to innovative special effects, costume design, and the iconic musical score.

Gary Oldman and others pay homage to the brilliance of the storytelling within the Harry Potter universe, emphasizing the depth and humanity of the characters, even within the fantastical setting. Oldman's personal anecdotes about portraying one of the saga's most complex figures provide a highlight for many fans, as he discusses the nuances of bringing a sense of realism and empathy to the world of magic and wizardry.

Emma Watson revisits her role as the intelligent and determined Hermione, exploring how she infused elements of her own personality into the character and how Hermione's determination and loyalty turned her into a role model for an entire generation. Watson also reflects on the kinship and solidarity among the cast members, which echoed the themes of friendship celebrated throughout the Harry Potter series.

Daniel Radcliffe shares his experiences of embodying the series' protagonist, the boy wizard with a great destiny, Harry Potter. With heartfelt emotion, Radcliffe speaks about the weight of expectations he faced and the collaborative spirit that flourished among the cast and crew, enabling him to grow into the role that would define a significant part of his life and career.

Together, the cast and crew explore the cultural impact of the Harry Potter films, discussing how the universal appeal of the stories has created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire new generations. The special also considers the profound effects of the series' portrayal of the battle between good and evil, the importance of choice, and the power of love and sacrifice.

As viewers are taken on a behind-the-magic tour of iconic locations such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Gryffindor common room, the sense of nostalgia is tangible. The immediacy of standing in these spaces once more highlights the enduring charm of the fictional world, and the genuine affection the actors hold for their time at Hogwarts radiates through the screen.

"Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts" provides a heartwarming retrospective for fans who grew up with the films and those discovering them for the first time. The special serves as a thank you letter to the actors, the filmmakers, and the audience who have kept the magic alive for 20 years. It's an enchanting, touching celebration of the stories that capture the imagination and remind us of the wonder of childhood and the enduring power of magic, friendship, and love.

Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts is a 2022 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.