![Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, ...](https://cdn.statically.io/img/ew.com/thmb/DZc_f8aPo5pTiVOaHQ7_aIESj6I=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/171053__harrypotter_l-a42cb48be5b6428d8fe687a4cf3f7be4.jpg)
Get your broomsticks ready, Pottermaniacs: ”Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” the second installment of the titular young wizard’s seven-part adventures, is hitting theaters. So that Muggles and Hogwarts students alike can study up, here’s EW.com’s A to Z guide to the world of the new movie. BEWARE: SPOILERS LURK AHEAD.
A is for Albus Dumbledore, the kindly master wizard who serves as headmaster at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry — though in ”Chamber,” his job is threatened by a sinister plot. The movie marks Irish actor Richard Harris’ final turn as Dumbledore. Harris died of lymphatic cancer last month at the age of 72, and will be replaced in future ”Potter” films.
B is for the basilisk, the gigantic and unfriendly green snake that lurks within the Chamber of Secrets (a hidden passage underneath Hogwarts). Looking directly into the basilisk’s eyes causes death, while seeing their reflection freezes victims in a petrified state. And if all else fails, the monster’s venom kills almost instantly. So watch out.
C is for a flying car, a bewitched Ford Anglia that belongs to the father of Ron Weasley, Harry’s best bud. In a move befitting their almost-teenage status, Ron and Harry commandeer the vehicle for a hazardous trip to Hogwarts after missing their train. What’s next — ”Harry Potter and the Raging Kegger”?
D is for Dobby, a cringing, self-flagellating house elf who tries to prevent Harry from returning to Hogwarts. Like Jar Jar Binks in the ”Star Wars” galaxy, Dobby is a CGI creation — and as with Jar Jar, some may find his clownish mannerisms painful to watch. Then again, at least Dobby speaks English.
E is for Emma Watson, the 12-year-old actress who plays Harry’s know-it-all friend Hermione. Hermione and Harry’s relationship deepens in ”Chamber” — they hug, and Harry strokes her hand when she’s injured. There’s no mystical snogging, however.
F is for Fawkes the phoenix, Dumbledore’s supernatural pet. As legend suggests, Fawkes periodically bursts into flames and then rises from its ashes. Also, its tears heal wounds. Mommy, can we keep it?
G is for Rupert Grint, the 13-year-old thespian who portrays Harry’s pal Ron Weasley. The timid Weasley takes a more heroic stance this time around, and we meet other members of his family, including his sister, Ginny, who has a major crush on Harry.
H is for the still-bespectacled Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), who begins his second year at Hogwarts in ”Chamber.” He’s more confident in his abilities this time around, and has become a bona fide school celebrity. He even has a young fan who documents his every move for the school paper.