Holy Hogwarts, Harry Potter in IMAX 3D

Hufflepuffs, witches, and even a Harry Potter impersonator were at the midnight premier of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 at AMC Avenue Forsyth 12 Friday night. Friday afternoon brought out witches and fans both young and old. Donning 3D glasses and standing in line for more than an hour, movie goers gave the film rave reviews.

The IMAX theater officially opened with a ticket-tearing by Cinta Berella, General Manager of the theatre, County Commissioner Chairman Brain Tam, and Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce President James McCoy. 

 “Avenue Forsyth is an entertainment destination, not just a shopping mall,” said Tam to the crowd. “We are very excited,” he continued and then shared that he was part of the 2005 zoning approval for the complex.

McCoy said, “We’re very proud of this facility.” He then offered his appreciation to the IMAX Corporation for “working to make this investment.”

Some of those in attendance were Patricia Martinez and her children Lydia, 11, and Adrian, 10, prize winners in the Photo Scavenger Hunt contest. Participation in the event was Lydia’s idea who shared that it was the flyer at Sharon Parks Library that inspired her. The Piney Grove Middle School student and her brother then traveled the county with their mother taking photos of the pair at SlapShots, Mia’s Pizza & Eats, Barnes & Noble Avenue Forsyth, Central Park, and the Sharon Parks Library.

“I didn’t know they only needed a few photos. We did five,” said their mom. “I wanted do to something fun. I wanted them to have a good time.”

Reactions to reading the e-mail announcing their win? Mom screamed to the kids,” we won! Kids come here. We won!” Adrian admitted to dancing in the front room and Lydia quickly sent her best friend a text with the news. 

Other winners included Stacy Trammell who, along with daughters Hayden, 7, and Cory, 3, came to pick up their prizes. Photos of the Trammells were taken at Mia’s Pizza & Eats, Hampton and Cumming libraries, and Central Park. 

“My husband and I will see the movie first,” said Trammell, adding that the girls would see it if appropriate.

Prizes included two $30 AMC gift cards to purchase tickets for the IMAX experience. 

Viewers of Friday afternoon shows gave the movie glowing reviews. 

“Awesome. It was off the book,” was how Forsyth resident Jake Barronton, 16, who attended with friend Austin May, 17, of Douglas County described the film.

Echoing those reviews were Pete Kirby, 14, who said, “I liked it,” and his mom Shelia said it was “amazing.” 

Self-proclaimed 'witch in general,' Jennifer Binkley said the movie was very true to the book. “They captured the emotions and essence of the characters,” she added. 

Ryan Hoffman, who attended the midnight preview with friends, came in costume because “it’s the end of an era.” Hoffman dressed as Harry Potter, complete with forehead scar.

Like most Potter fans, Hoffman learned some of life’s lessons along side the be-speckled protagonist. 

“Harry learned about life, love, sacrifice, and courage. The truth is, Potter will never truly end. Harry will never die because he’s only a book shelf away.”