Magizoologist and Writer Newt Scamander’s escapades in New York are what urge him to pen the book ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them’, the catalyst of inspiration for a young Harry Potter. Far from the world of Hogwarts, we’re plunged into the smog of the Big Apple to rediscover the magic of the Harry Potter series in this heavily-anticipated prequel.
Newt (Eddie Redmayne) is a bumbling, sincere and determined young wizard who has taken it upon himself to preserve and promote the wonderful world of magical beasts in New York, and breaking wizarding codes in his endeavour to do so. Equipped with a briefcase in hand, things quickly begin to get out of control, and when dark forces descend upon the city he’s torn between recapturing the beasts that have escaped and defending them and himself from the wizarding council, with the help of the no-maj (American for muggle) Kowalski (Dan Fogler).
Redmayne completely makes the role his own, and is a complete joy to watch as he goes from the haphazard yet intelligent wizard to caring hero.
The most impressive thing about Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them is how director David Yates has adjusted the tone of the prequel to make it darker to suit an audience that has grown in parallel with the Harry Potter series. Add the unbelievable hype and scorns of die-hard fans and the prequel is one that could easily have missed the mark.
In spite of an increased adult tone, it brilliantly retains the magic and allure that was evident in the Harry Potter films.
Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them is an outstanding addition to the Harry Potter franchise and will definitely make you crave more. Redmayne is superb, the supporting cast are all breathtakingly brilliant, there’s oodles of magic and heaps of darkness to give the film contrast. Thankfully, another four films have been announced meaning we won’t have to wait too long for the next instalment.