Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is a fantasy film from 2016, directed by David Yates, who has also directed several films from the Harry Potter series. The film features an ensemble cast led by the talented Eddie Redmayne, who portrays the enchanting character, Newt Scamander, a magizoologist who is the author of the book Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them in the Harry Potter universe. Other noteworthy cast members include Katherine Waterston as Porpentina Goldstein, an employee of the Magical Congress of the United States, and Alison Sudol who portrays her free-spirited sister, Queenie Goldstein.

The film is the first in a series of adventures set in the Wizarding World invented by J.K. Rowling. This first offering predates the familiar tales of Harry Potter, taking place in 1920s New York, exploring a whole new side of the magical world familiar to fans of Rowling's work. The film, however, ensures that it feels fresh and original, even to those entrenched in the mainstream Harry Potter series.

Eddie Redmayne's character, British wizard Newt Scamander, arrives in New York City with a magical suitcase. This piece of luggage is unlike any other suitcase, as it is enchanted to house a vast array of magical creatures which Newt has either rescued or discovered on his travels. However, trouble ensues when some of his extraordinary beasts accidentally escape, causing a disturbance in the magical and non-magical communities, referred to as the 'No-Maj', the American term for Muggles.

This mishap embroils Newt in a tangled mess within the Magical Congress of the United States of America, where he crosses paths with Porpentina 'Tina' Goldstein (Katherine Waterston), who was recently demoted at work and sees in Newt's arrest a chance to regain her position. Then comes Queenie Goldstein, the mind-reading sister of Tina, and the No-Maj Jacob Kowalski, excellently portrayed by Dan Fogler, who’s accidentally exposed to this world of enchantment and quickly becomes embroiled in their magical shenanigans.

The film wonderfully balances humor and darker, more serious undertones. There's an undercurrent of tension due to an unknown entity terrorizing the city, causing widespread destruction and deepening the divide between the magical community and the No-Maj community. This element also introduces another faction — the Second Salemers, a group of No-Majs dedicated to eradicating witches and wizards.

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them greatly expands upon the magical universe introduced by Rowling, taking her British-based lore and transporting it to American soil, showcasing new magical creatures, spells, political systems, and terminology. It's a film that impresses with distinct 1920s aesthetics and costumes that remarkably add beauty and authenticity to the atmosphere and enhance the overall viewing experience.

Eddie Redmayne gives an outstanding performance as Newt Scamander, bringing a perfect blend of eccentricity, intelligence, and compassion to the character. He draws the viewer into his world with ease and grace. Katherine Waterston's Tina is serious and determined, and Waterston eloquently conveys Tina's stoicism and drive. Alison Sudol's Queenie is an instantly lovable character, bringing a lot of heart and warmth to the film.

In nearly every frame of the film, we can see the astounding special effects, bringing a host of magical creatures to life with remarkable believability, from the cuddly to the terrifying, most especially the array of fantastic beasts that Newt carries in his suitcase. Each is uniquely designed and realized, making for several of the film's most delightful and visually engaging scenes.

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is an enticing entryway into a larger narrative and its sequels while being an exciting stand-alone film. It's a magical ride, filled with adventure, intrigue, and a little romance, sure to entertain and captivate any viewer. It is a must-see for all Harry Potter fans and for those seeking an enchanting tale of magic and fantasy.