Of Money and Muggles

Let me begin by saying that J K Rowling has earned her money. She created seven best-sellers and exercised great control over Warner Brothers to ensure that the film versions of her book came up to her standards. For the most part, Harry Potter merchandise has been of a high standard; control has been maintained over anything that could bring the productions or those working on it into disrepute.

This is no mean achievement.

J K Rowling has already done much good with her money and gives every indication of being the sort of person who will continue to do so. Looking at those who have very large amounts of money, getting rid of most of it as fast as one can appears to be the best way of surviving it.

Fame is a fickle friend, too. For the young cast, the association with such a phenomenal success can radically alter one's view of the world. The tabloids are full of those who have been unable to control their lives or cope with their success.

But let's not be unfair. All of them, Daniel, Emma, Rupert, Tom, Devon, Matthew, Bonnie and Evanna, know that being in these films will probably be the major event of their professional lives. Separating public affection for their roles from any regard for them personally, is very difficult. If half the world loves Hermione, how does that make Emma feel, whose character only partially overlaps that of the role she plays?

By all accounts (based on reports from my son who knows some of Emma's friends) she is a sensible, clever and witty young lady. It can only be hoped that these young people avoid the misery and public disapprobation that has been visited on so many erstwhile glamorous young stars.

In time, when The Deathly Hallows is in the can, I hope they can look back on the experience with pride and fondness, along with the remarkable satisfaction that their young selves are preserved forever on film.