Inside Universal Studios Hollywood’s ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’
Touring Hogwarts is more than feeling like you’re on set of the “Harry Potter” films or in the world created by J.K. Rowling’s successful books. Walking past Dumbledore’s office snapping a picture led to a small mischievous adventure as I looked left and right to see my tour group had disappeared. No, the disappearance was no act of Hogwarts magic, but rather me falling behind while admiring the detail of the castle, as many hidden props from films could be found throughout. After reuniting with my group, I realized it made me feel like Harry, Ron and Hermione as first year students in the dark castle. Every experience is enhanced with the films’ scores playing in every corner of the wizarding world.
Universal Studios Hollywood is in its soft launch of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” until its official opening on April 7, and what better way to tour the grounds with set director Alan Gilmore?
Gilmore previously worked on “Harry Potter” films before leaving the film set to create an interactive wizarding world in the Orlando, Fla. theme park. Now, the magic can be experienced at Universal Hollywood. “Any time I get the call to do another ‘Harry Potter’ [project], I just say yes,” he said. “I feel like it’s my life in a way…I know so much about this world.” While muggles get to explore Hogsmeade, Gilmore points out that even though the architecture gives medieval vibes, it’s quite modern. “Everything is authentic from the films. We’ve brought the films to life,” he said. The shops in Hogsmeade Village replicated from the films give the retro feel while being completely up-to-date. Explaining how 90 percent of the technology is hidden, Gilmore said, “Below simple skin is a very high-tech world.”
Although there’s much to take in, everything in sight is purest in detail. Muggles’ eyes won’t know where to look, as there are many moving portraits that tower the walls of the dark school, just like in Rowling’s world. “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” would be nothing without Rowling’s approval, from handcrafted Potter-themed beer flavors to architectural and wardrobe designs, as merchandise includes buying clothing from all Hogwarts houses. Gilmore remains impartial as to which is his favorite wizarding house. While children and their parents try on robes and vests from their preferred houses, Gilmore said, “I like watching others experience it.”
He may not have a favorite house, but one of his favorite characters is Sirius Black, he reveals as he shows a wand in Ollivander’s shop. The store offers several options to choose from, as they’re all overwhelmingly (in a good way) stacked up from floor to ceiling.
Why visit? In the words of Gilmore himself: “You can’t buy this, you can’t find it in a catalog. It’s sculpture, it’s art,” and there’s so much more to see.
USC students can buy tickets to experience the Wizarding World here.
Originally published at www.uscannenbergmedia.com on March 19, 2016.
