We learn today that ABC is going to be showing a gaggle of Potter this Yuletide season. We get the following scoop thanks to our friends at the movieweb:
ABC Family continues the holiday cheer with its Harry Potter weekend on December 5-7, airing the first four installments of the popular film series as part of the network’s “25 Days of Christmas” programming event. In the world television premiere of the special extended edition of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, viewers will also see deleted scenes not included in the original film version.
To add to the magic, ABC Family will also be airing exclusive first looks at the new film, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (opening in theaters July 17, 2009), throughout the weekend’s three-day event. Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson and Michael Gambon discuss the upcoming film’s exciting storylines, as well as revealing insider information. ABC Family’s first looks at the latest Harry Potter feature film also offer viewers a sneak peek of never-before-seen footage of love running rampant through Hogwarts, a look into Tom Riddle’s past and an introduction of Hogwarts new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Horace Slughorn.
I think this is great. Harry Potter is a perfect film series for the pre-holidays. It’ s entertaining enough for the adults and children of all ages can enjoy the glory of level 10 wizardry (other than with polyhedrons in hand).
I’m also interested in seeing the promotional clips for the upcoming film. I think rescheduling the film a year on was still a ridiculous idea, but this ABC event is one hell of a promo in the meantime. I wonder if the studio did a straight swap with ABC, rights to air the show in exchange for Half-Blood Prince ads. That would be a win win for both parties in my opinion, but I have no idea how to put a value on ad time.
I look forward to checking out this event to hunt for any new insight into the upcoming film.
I wonder if Potter will become an ongoing Xmas institution much like egg nog, woolens and Santa himself.
