And of course I've got kids of my own now, and they love me being in the Harry Potter films. I'm now part of a phenomenon. You become incredibly cool to your kids, and you get a young fan base. So you became the cool dad at school. You're suddenly hip.

In this quote, Gary Oldman reflects on his experience as an actor in the Harry Potter films and how it has impacted his relationship with his children. He acknowledges that being part of such a globally beloved franchise has given him a new sense of coolness and popularity, especially in the eyes of his kids. Oldman humorously notes that his role in the Harry Potter series has made him "the cool dad" at school, highlighting the way in which pop culture can change how parents are perceived by their children and their peers.

Oldman also mentions the unexpected benefit of gaining a young fan base due to his involvement in such a widely adored franchise. The Harry Potter films, with their massive appeal to audiences of all ages, helped Oldman connect with a younger generation of fans who may not have been familiar with his earlier roles. This shift illustrates the power of pop culture in bridging generational gaps and expanding an actor’s reach beyond their traditional audience.

The phrase "you become incredibly cool to your kids" speaks to the universal experience many parents face: their children often see them as less than cool or relatable. Oldman’s involvement in the Harry Potter films, however, gave him a unique opportunity to change that perception. It speaks to the way in which certain iconic films or roles can provide parents with newfound social capital in the eyes of their children.

Ultimately, Oldman’s quote captures the fun and ironic nature of fame. While he is an accomplished actor, it is his role in a children’s movie franchise that has earned him a sense of hipness that many actors might not experience in their careers. His humorous take on the situation reveals the way celebrity and pop culture intersect with everyday family dynamics.