03/02/2011

The Harry Potter film series will receive the award for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema at this year’s BAFTAs.

Author JK Rowling and producer David Heyman will receive the award on behalf of the franchise during the ceremony on February 13. Past awardees include Mike Leigh, Kenneth Branagh, Derek Jarman, Working Title, Channel Four Films and Pinewood & Shepperton Studios.

The first six films in the series grossing over $5.4billion worldwide, making it the top-grossing film franchise of all time and together have garnered a total of 28 BAFTA nominations.

Finola Dwyer, chair of BAFTA’s Film Committee, said, “As this great British film success story draws to a close with this year’s eagerly anticipated final instalment, it’s fitting that BAFTA honours the Harry Potter films and their contribution to the British film industry.”

Heyman said, “On behalf of the over 2000 people who worked in front of and behind the camera on each of the Harry Potter films I would like to say how honoured we all are to receive this Award. And thank you to Jo Rowling for entrusting us to bring her magnificent books to the screen.”

Daniel Radcliffe, who plays the eponymous hero, said, “I have loved every minute of making these films and to me the real heroes are the crew and the huge team of craftsmen that have made all eight of them possible – this Award is a testament to their incredible work.”

Emma Watson, who plays Hermione Granger, said, “This is a huge honour! Thank you to Jo Rowling for writing such wonderful books, to David Heyman for shepherding us all through the past ten years and to all the loyal fans who have been with us throughout.”