Deathly Hallows Part 2

I was in Italy when the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 movie came out here in the states. I was also on hiatus, so I was unable to write a post about my experience! However, it just wouldn't feel right to NOT have a post on Part 2 when I have posted on the previous releases. So I decided to write about my experience of seeing Part 2 while in Italia.

First off, I was devastated when I found out that I would be missing the release! My friends and I have a thing where we always go (dressed up!) to the Harry Potter releases. Unfortunately I had to miss it this year due to the fact I was spending five weeks in Italy.

However, when I got to Italy, it turned out not only would I be able to attend the release but it was being release two days earlier in Italy (on the 13 rather then the 15). Of course I went out on an excursion to find a theatre near Montepulciano (where I was mostly staying while in Italy). Turned out there was a theatre that was about a half an hour away on bus! I looked up times and off I went!

(My ticket stub from the release day!)

Now, I wasn't sure if the movie would be in English with Italian subtitles or vice versa, but I went with hope. Thankfully, while it wasn't in English, it had subtitles. I can't even express how much I cried during that movie... I know there are a few people who did not enjoy it but I have to say that I loved it and if you haven't seen it by now (the DVD and Blu Ray are now released) then you need to go pick it up immediately!

(My roommate and I at the release outside of Chiusi-- I'm the one in purple!)

That was the first time I saw it in Italy. However, while spending a weekend in Florence, my friend and I happened across an old opera house--now turned into an English movie theatre! Not only were they playing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, but it was in English! That was the second time I saw Part 2 and I still cried my eyes out.

(A bus I saw in Rome)

I have been reading Harry Potter since I was nine or ten years old. Here I am, at twenty-three, watching the final installment of a series that changed my life. It was such a bittersweet moment.

It was my realization that my childhood was over.

On a more humorous note, this warning was pretty fitting:

And that was my Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 experience.

So now that I'm back...

How about a contest?

I am so happy to be able to come back to my blog and continue to receive kind comments from followers (even after my super long hiatus!) and I just want to thank you all SO much!

So, what shall I give away?

You name it, I'll consider it! Comment below on a newly released book that you would love to own! I'll take everything in consideration but if everyone seems to be naming the same book, there is a good chance that will be the book I give away! I will be only giving away one book (this isn't the contest for the book, just the post deciding on which book to give away! The contest post will be made after I've decided on which book everyone wants the most).

Just leave me the title and author. I'll decide by next week. :]