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November 19, 2005 – The Yorkshire Post

HE’S a star of one of the most successful film sagas of all time.

But when Matthew Lewis is not making spells in front of millions he’s working his magic on a football pitch in Yeadon. Sixteen-year-old Matthew, who’s from Horsforth, plays Harry Potter’s clumsy but loyal friend Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter series. This weekend sees the launch of the fourth film in the series, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

In the latest instalment Harry enters into a dangerous Triwizard Tournament, a thrilling international competition that pits him against two rival European wizarding schools.

Matthew said: “It’s a really, really good film. I enjoyed every minute of it.

“It’s a lot, lot darker than the previous films. But it’s got a good balance. There’s a lot of comedy as well.” And Neville plays a decisive part in Harry’s antics.

“He tries to help in the Triwizard Tournament. It doesn’t go according to plan, but it works out in the end.” Level-headed Matthew still can’t get over the excitement of his role.

“It’s absolutely unbelievable. Working with Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith. It’s really, really amazing. I’ve grown up watching these actors. I’ve watched all their old work and it’s amazing to think who you’re working with.” Alongside the human stars, Matthew also enjoyed working with all the animals on set.

“I’ve been acting since I was five but I’ve never worked with owls flying around everywhere before. It’s been so much fun.”

But Matthew had a few problems with Neville’s pet toad, Trevor.

“I don’t know if he liked me very much because he peed on me. And then they brought him back and he did it again.” Matthew modestly admits to being like the hapless character he plays.

“I’m too much like Neville I think. I’m always forgetting things. I’m always very, very forgetful and clumsy and I’m very late for stuff. But I like to think my standard of schoolwork is better than Neville’s.”

Despite his fame, the articulate teenager still manages to find time to study for his A-levels and play football with his friends.

“The only big difference is that I’m travelling all over the world. But my friends treat me exactly the same.” Matthew is now preparing for his role in the fifth Harry Potter film, which starts shooting in February.

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