In the noughties, you could divide the young population of the world into two categories. Some were in love with the antics of the pupils of Hogwarts, whilst others were enchanted by the wonders of Middle Earth. Whether they preferred Sauron or Snape, they were devoted to your chosen fandom and remain obsessed to this day. Any suggestion that the other series is superior, in literary or cinematic form, is still met with hostility, anger and at least one Bat-Bogey Hex. It has always been the case that pop culture fans have been fiercely loyal to their chosen obsessions, but the rise of Tumblr and other internet communities has given the debate constant scope. Both series are loved by many and so have their own followings online. They have engaged people like few other franchises in history, sparking ferocious debate.
Freelance film journalist and fan of professional wrestling. Usually found in a darkened screening room looking for an aisle seat and telling people to put away their mobile phones. Also known to do a bit of stand-up comedy, so I'm used to the occasional heckle.
