Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Production of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the 2010/2011 two-part finale of the Harry Potter film series, began in 2009. Both Part 1 and Part 2 were directed by David Yates, written by Steve Kloves, and from the screen adaptation of the 2007 novel of the same name by J. K. Rowling. The picture was produced by Rowling, alongside David Heyman and David Barron. It was originally set to be released as one, but due to its long-running time, Warner Bros. Pictures divided the film into two parts. Both parts were shot simultaneously, principal photography began on 19 February 2009 and was completed on 12 June 2010, with reshoots for the epilogue scene taking place in December 2010. Part 1 was released in 2D and IMAX on 19 November 2010, and Part 2 was released in 3D, 2D and IMAX on 15 July 2011. Development The idea to divide J. K. Rowling's final book into two parts came from "creative imperative" and was suggested by executive producer Lionel Wigram. David Heyman initially responded negatively, but Wigram asked, "No, David. How are we going to do it?". Having reread the book and discussed it with Steve Kloves when the 2007–2008 Writers Guild of America strike ended, and having Rowling's approval, he agreed with the division. Deathly Hallows was shot back to back, and treated as if it were one film during principal photography. Heyman said of the project, "Over ten years ago, we made a commitment to Jo Rowling that, above all else, we would be faithful and true to the spirit of her books, and ever since we have endeavored never to compromise on the creative ambitions of the films." Before David Yates was officially chosen to direct, others had expressed an interest in the job. Alfonso Cuarón, director of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, had said that he would be tempted to return to direct. Guillermo del Toro, who passed on Prisoner of Azkaban, had expressed interest in directing Deathly Hallows, but an increased workload over the production of The Hobbit ruled him out of the project. Chris Columbus, director of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, had longed to helm another instalment after just producing Prisoner of Azkaban and wished to return to direct Deathly Hallows, but Yates was chosen to direct it.