Realistic Harry Potter Sword Replicas Recalled in Tokyo

Warner Bros Studios Japan Recalls 30,000 Yen Replicas Due to “Distribution Issue”

Warner Bros Studios Japan and local media have announced the recall of “authentic recreation” replicas of the Godric Gryffindor Sword, sold at the “The Making of Harry Potter” theme park in Tokyo.

Background: The Godric Gryffindor Sword

The pointed, silver sword is 85cm long and comes affixed to a wood display plaque, according to a company statement.

The Recall: A “Distribution Issue”?

The 30,000 yen (RM885) replicas were distributed to fans, but Japanese authorities considered the toy sharp-edged enough to constitute a possible violation of the country’s sword and firearms control laws.

Why the Recall?

The recall was triggered by a “distribution issue” with the replicas, Warner Bros Studios Japan stated. However, Japanese media reported that investigators considered the toy sharp-edged enough to constitute a possible violation of the country’s sword and firearms control laws.

Reaction from Fans

Fans who had to relinquish the sword took to social media to air their disappointment and heartache.

“The farewell was ‘frustrating’ and ‘very sad'”, one fan wrote on social media platform X, adding: “My fellow true Gryffindor students out there who agreed to the voluntary recall, I feel you.”

“I just handed over to police the Gryffindor sword which I once vowed to myself I will cherish for the rest of my life,” another wrote on X.

“I believe they will take good care of it until it is disposed of.”

Consequences for Fans

Fans who had purchased the replicas were required to relinquish them to authorities, sparking disappointment and frustration among fans.

FAQs

• Why was the recall issued? A “distribution issue” with the replicas was cited as the reason.
• Why was the replica considered a violation of the law? Japanese authorities considered the toy sharp-edged enough to constitute a possible violation of the country’s sword and firearms control laws.
• How many replicas were recalled? 30,000 yen (RM885) replicas were sold at the “The Making of Harry Potter” theme park in Tokyo.
• What happened to the replicas? Fans were required to relinquish the replicas to authorities, who will take care of them until they are disposed of.

Conclusion

The recall of the Godric Gryffindor Sword replicas has left fans of the Harry Potter series disappointed and frustrated. While the reasons behind the recall are unclear, it is evident that the Japanese authorities are taking a zero-tolerance approach to any item that could potentially be used as a weapon. As fans continue to await a resolution to this issue, it remains to be seen what steps Warner Bros Studios Japan will take to address the concerns of its loyal fan base.