Warner Brothers new film, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” is the latest movie installment in the Harry Potter franchise. It was wildly anticipated by fans across the globe. This spin-off of the Harry Potter movies started out as a novella, also written by J.K. Rowling, and is expected to be the first movie of a trilogy. The plot revolves around the backstory of a famous wizard, Newton “Newt” Scamander, who is best known for his books on magical creatures.

Directed by David Yates, this fantasy/action film takes place in 1926, in the midst of panic from a dark wizard named Grindelwald. It follows the story of Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), a British wizard visiting New York with a case full of magical creatures. These creatures manage to escape, wreaking havoc in the muggle (non-magical person) world. While trying to save his fantastic beasts, Scamander meets the other protagonists of the film, Porpentina “Tina” Goldstein (Katherine Waterston), and Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler). Together, with the help of the Goldstein’s sister Queenie (Fine Frenzy), the gang uncover incredible surprises that have the audience on the edge of their seats. By combining the detailed plot with the sense of humor of the characters, the film gives the audience a magical feeling from the minute it starts to the minute it ends.

“Fantastic Beasts” budget was $180 million, and every cent was put to good use. The animation of the beasts is well-designed and realistic, along with the spells cast from the wands. The historically accurate costumes are spot on, and so is the set with the background of New York. Even the film score, composed by James Newton Howard, adds a huge amount of emotion with just a single measure.

On top of everything else, the characters are extremely lovable and relatable. Scamander is portrayed perfectly by Redmayne as a dorky, scruffy outcast who believes that the real beasts of the world are humans. He interacts with other people in an awkward, hilarious manner, and treats his creatures with so much love and care. Kuwolski is a funny sidekick of Scamander, being a muggle himself, and it is amazing to get to watch him react to the wizard world when all he wanted was to open up a bakery. The film also provides a strong female lead (Waterston as Goldstein) who cares for other people like Scamander cares for his creatures.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is a movie worth seeing. It is a refreshing experience for all Harry Potter fans, and a remarkable experience for people who didn’t formerly know anything about the wizard world. The movie is perfectly cast, and the plot is clear and easy to follow. The special effects are also stunning, especially towards the climax of the film. The sheer sense of amazement the film gives off is reason enough to go and see it more than once.