Magical 'Harry Potter' Movie Opens

By Elizabeth Darst

11/16/2001 at 03:37 PM EST

Many children and adult fans of author J.K. Rowling's massively popular book series probably raced home Friday afternoon (if they didn't already take the day off) to catch the film "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," released in many theaters first thing Friday morning. The movie, based on a story of Rowling's, was directed by Chris Columbus, who also helmed popular favorites "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Home Alone." So far, reviewers have approved of the director's adaptation of the beloved books, which have sold over 125 million copies worldwide. In anticipation of its popularity, theater owners have dedicated an unprecedented number of screens, reports Reuters. Let the stampede begin.