This weekend, the final installment of the "Harry Potter" franchise hits theaters, marking the end of an era for millions around the world who grew up with the brave boy wizard. The series handles some weighty issues, such as good versus evil and the nature of death, but Dumbledore constantly reminds Harry that the greatest magic of all is love. The professor correctly hypothesizes that Voldemort can never win, since he is incapable of this most innate human emotion.
In honor of the magical power of love, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite couples from the "Harry Potter" series. Take a stroll down memory lane with us, then vote for your favorite after the jump!
Ron and Hermione
Though Ron and Hermione got off to a rocky start, they became fast friends and, throughout their years at Hogwarts and beyond, a little something more. One of the film series’ most highly anticipated moments still awaits us: Ron and Hermione’s kiss! If it’s anything like the passionate embrace that Horcrux Harry and Hermione shared in "Deathly Hallows: Part 1," then we won’t be disappointed. "I ended up pouncing on Rupert [Grint]," Emma Watson told us about filming the scene. "After the first take he was like, 'Whoa there! Where did that come from?' I was like, 'Sorry!'"
Cedric and Cho
Tall, handsome Edward Cullen Cedric Diggory had his fair share of admirers during his time at Hogwarts, but it was Cho Chang who caught his fancy in "Goblet of Fire." The pair attended the Yule Ball together, much to Harry’s chagrin. Alas, their budding love was cut short when Voldemort killed Cedric, leaving Cho to run weeping into the arms of…Harry Potter.
Harry and Cho
It’s been said that there’s nothing like first love. Harry’s first few encounters with the pretty Ravenclaw Seeker are awkward, stumbling and completely adorable. Alas, the relationship is always overshadowed by Cho’s feelings for Cedric. When Cho’s friend betrays Dumbledore’s Army to Professor Umbridge in "Order of the Phoenix," Harry’s crush on her is snuffed out. Still, that Harry/Cho kiss under the mistletoe is a sweet, touching moment.
Ron and Lavender
They may have only dated for a few months in sixth year, but Ron and Lavender’s PDA-filled courtship is unforgettable, especially thanks to Jessie Cave’s hilarious portrayal of the lovesick Lavender in "Half Blood Prince." Their feelings are initially mutual, much to the ire of Hermione, but Ron, growing weary of the constant snogging, succeeds in getting Lavender to break up with him before the end of the year.
Viktor and Hermione
What was in the air at that Yule Ball? Viktor and Hermione were another couple to make their first appearance together at the school dance. Despite being an international Quidditch star who could have any girl he liked, Viktor Krum became enamored with Hogwarts’ resident know-it-all. The two shared plenty of private moments together, but once he returned to his native Bulgaria, their courtship softened into a more platonic pen pal relationship. At Bill and Fleur’s wedding, he’s dismayed to find that Hermione’s in a relationship with Ron.
Harry and Ginny
Like all adolescent girls, Ginny goes through many phases, from running away whenever Harry’s around in "Chamber of Secrets" to becoming a serial monogamist in "Order of the Phoenix," but it isn’t until "Half Blood Prince" that her attraction to Harry becomes mutual. Of course, there are plenty of obstacles in the way. Like, you know, Voldemort trying to kill Harry, and the fact that Ginny is Ron’s little sister. Still, these two lovebirds make it work, eventually marrying and choosing progressively sillier names for their children: James Sirius, Lily Luna and Albus Severus.
So, Crushers, which HP couple is your favorite? And don't forget to continue voting in MTV Movie Blog's Harry Potter World Cup!
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