Genios Article/Interview

June 2007

How did you become Harry Potter?
A year before the filming for the first movie, Harry potter and the Philosopher's stone began they were looking for the actor to portray Harry. I was 11 and although I was very nervious in the auditions, they gave me the part. Chris Colombus, the director of the first 2 movies calmed me down and told me what to pretend when saying my lines.

Did you have experience as an actor?
I had worked in the BBC televison production "David Copperfield" and in the film "The Tailor of Panama."

How has your life changed since you've taken the role of Harry?
My life hasn't changed a lot although at times it's difficult to go out. I have to put a baseball cap on so no one will recognize me! But generally, I always think about how many people there will be if I want to go to a specific place.

Who is your favorite character from the novels?
Obviously, Harry. I turned into a great fan of his.

And if not him?
Sirius Black because there's something very dangerous and fascinating about him.

Where and when did you film "Order of the Phoenix"?
From February to October of last year we filmed at Leavsden Studios outside of London. I would get up everyday at about 6:30 and travel from my house. It was very early but I liked it. We worked hard and we had fun.

Are you friends with all the actors?
Absolutely! Especially with Matthew Lewis who portrays Neville Longbottom.

What do you do when you're not working?
I love to go out with friends, listen to music, and read. Actually since you're from Argentina, I can say that I just read a book of stories by Jorge Luis Borges, "The Aleph". I really liked all the stories but "The Zahir" was my favorite.

I can't believe it!
I'm quite interested in the incredible language he uses.

Did you read it in spanish?
No, I know very little spanish...

What about music?
I like the English rock bands like "Mystery Jets."

Do you have a girlfriend?
No...

Is it difficult for someone famous like you to have a girlfriend?
Being famous doesn't make it harder or easier. I had a girlfriend in the past but not anymore.

What do you know about Argentina other than the stories of Borges?
I was sorry that the Argentina team did not advance in the FIFA World Cup last year because they were one of the best teams in my opinion. I know that Buenos Aires is the capital and I would like to visit the country one day.

To promote the movies?
No! To get to know the country and to enjoy my vacation.

There's much talk about Harry's death...
I don't know more about it than anyone else. JK Rowling knows how to guard her secrets.

How would you like the series to end?
At times I imagine that Voldemort kills Harry and by doing this kills himself due to the strong connection that exists between them.

Don't you think that's rather sad?
Yes but it's also an ending adequate for Harry. If he has to die, he should know that by doing so he is destroying Voldemort's world.

Which are your favorite installments?
"The Prisoner of Azkaban" because it doesn't portray Voldemort as the only enemy, and "The Order of the Phoenix" where there is a good glimpse at the relation between Sirius and Harry.