“Respect the original material!,” Netizens agreed.
In a world where classic stories are often reimagined through the lens of modern audiences, the beloved Harry Potter franchise has found itself at the center of a rumor as its author, J.K. Rowling, may take legal action against Warner Bros due to the studio’s recent approach to diversity in its adaptations of the world-renowned book franchise.
Netizens, both potterheads and muggles, weighed in on the subject and had a resounding call for respect for the original materials.
Another Case of Ignoring the Source Material
Imagine spending 17 years writing a story with detailed character descriptions, and then having your own words completely ignored for varying reasons including “the duty to representation.” Well, hello, Disney!
For years, readers have connected deeply with the characters of the Wizarding World, particularly those from England, Scotland, and Wales. This connection allows fans to see themselves in the filming locations of the original movies as they embody their favorite characters. The distinct looks and accents of these characters further enrich the experience, prompting us, non-UK dwellers, to imagine their lines in such interesting manners, such as how we copy Ron’s pronunciation on the infamous line of, “Not me, not Hermione, YOU!.”
But, the trend of casting decisions that prioritize diversity over having a faithful adaptation to the source material is again on the table. Many fans argue that these choices are driven more by a desire for social clout than a genuine commitment to representation.
Is It Inclusivity or Wokeness?
Supporters of Rowling’s potential legal action shared on social media that her original vision deserves protection. Many feel that true diversity should not only include different faces but also honor the stories as they were written. And as you can recall, JK Rowling was very specific when they looked for cast for the speaking roles of the original HP movies where she shared that the actors must be of British or Irish origins. In addition, cast for the Durmstrang Institute and Beauxbatons Academy students were actors from their own countries; staying true to their own Wizarding World descents.
If the Rumor Is True, then JK Has a Contradicting Belief System
However, remember the “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” stage show? They casted a black Hermione Granger and JK shared on social media that, “Canon: brown eyes, frizzy hair, and very clever. White skin was never specified. Rowling loves black Hermione,” when in fact, there was a line in the original books indicating Hermione’s white face sticking out from behind a tree. But, it is also important to note that the rest of the cast of the Broadway show were adult copies of the original movie version characters; just, except for Hermione. In the event that JK pushes with the lawsuit, wouldn’t it be contradicting for her to do so, especially as she consented with the change in the theater version of her story?
In the end, whether or not Rowling follows through on her rumored lawsuit, the talks surrounding diversity in adaptations is likely to continue, pushing both new creators and audiences to consider what it truly means to honor the stories that stuck with us through the years.
So, what do you think, Sugboanons?
