Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (released in some territories with the alternative subtitle the Sorcerer's Stone)[4][5] is a 2001 fantasy film directed by Chris Columbus and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.[3] It is based on the novel of the same name by J. K. Rowling. The film, which is the first instalment in the Harry Potter film series, was written by Steve Kloves and produced by David Heyman. The story follows Harry Potter's first year at Hogwarts as he discovers that he is a famous wizard and begins his magical education. The film stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, with Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley, and Emma Watson as Hermione Granger. It is followed by seven sequels in total, beginning with Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.