Ever since the devastating end of the iconic Harry Potter series in 2011, Potterheads have been eagerly waiting for the wizarding world to return to the big screen. In 2016, J.K. Rowling granted their wish with the release of Harry Potter spinoff, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
The film takes place in 1926 New York, in a world where wizards and witches hide their magical ability to avoid conflict with muggles. It follows the story of Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) who arrives from England, but his brief layover turns into a mission to recover his lost briefcase full of magical creatures with the help of sibling witches Porpentina (Katherine Waterston) and Queenie (Alison Sudol) and an unsuspecting human named Jacob (Dan Fogler).
Fantastic Beasts is full of fantastic visuals. Director David Yates produces stunning imagery that fully encapsulate all of the mysticism this story deserves. Bringing J.K. Rowling’s universe to America adds a refreshing element that will intrigue new and old fans. Even though we never return to any of the iconic locations from the Harry Potter series, the magical elements still present provide a sense of nostalgia.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is full of magic, mystery, and supernatural wonders. Fans of Hogwarts will be dazzled, but there is enough here to entice new fans as well.