Movies

7 Harry Potter Fan Films, Ranked from Meh to Better Than the OG Movies

7 Harry Potter Fan Films, Ranked from Meh to Better Than the OG Movies
Image credit: StarKid Productions

Potterheads are a creative lot, and Harry Potter has lived well beyond the original books and movies for years.

In light of the new (and unnecessary reboot), here are seven fan creations within the Harry Potter universe that you might want to check out.

7. Severus Snape and the Marauders (2016)

OK, this one is for Snape-philes only. While the movie is beautifully shot, we rank it last solely because it heavily romanticizes Snape as a character. As you might’ve guessed, the Marauders are the villains in this story, and Snape is the victim who can do nothing wrong. Approach this movie with caution.

6. Lily Evans and the Eleventh Hour (2016)

The rare gem of a fan movie focuses on Lily Evans, rather than the Marauders or Snape. The film follows Lily during her sixth year at Hogwarts as she handles friendship, love, and an upcoming battle. It’s pretty innocent, fairly lighthearted, and proudly feminist – definitely worth a watch. By the way, there is also a sequel Lily Evans and the Stroke of Midnight.

5. The Day Muggles Found Out (2016)

This movie provides a much-needed twist to the story. There are no familiar characters – instead, two wizard friends explore the Muggle world (and recreational drugs play their part in the movie). It’s fresh and exciting, and many fans praised the filmmakers for coming up with something so original.

4. The Founders: The Ravenclaw Ghost (2019)

Medieval settings, magical atmosphere, and the fascinating story of Rowena Ravenclaw and her daughter – the movie has it all and more. Originally, The Founders was supposed to be a four-part series, but Warner Brothers didn’t let it go that far. Still, the film is quite professionally made, and it captures that Harry Potter essence that we all love.

3. The Battle of Hogwarts (2011)

This mockumentary show consists of just five episodes and offers us a glimpse into the lives of the survivors of the final battle. 20 years have passed since the end of the Second Wizarding War, and people remember what it was like back then.

This fan movie is different from the rest, and the fans enjoyed learning more about the aftermath of the Battle of Hogwarts.

2. Voldemort: Origins of the Heir (2018)

This is perhaps the most famous fan film of the Harry Potter universe. It tells the story of how Lord Voldemort first came to power and sought the Founders’ artifacts to turn them into Horcruxes. This film also faced issues with Warner Brothers, but they were eventually resolved. No wonder – it looks better than the original Harry Potter movies.

1. A Very Potter Musical (2009) and Its Sequels (2010, 2012, 2016)

Although not technically a fan film, A Very Potter Musical is definitely the best addition to the saga. It’s inherently funny, extremely inspired, and features Darren Criss (before he became Glee ’s Blaine).

If you haven’t seen it, you are missing out big time. Voldemort alone is a treasure… Oh, and the three sequels to the musical are just as brilliant!

Potterheads are truly something else!