Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them is a well executed prequel that reinvigorates, an already great franchise. This 9th film in the Harry Potter universe pays its respects to its predecessors & successfully conveys new, thrilling experiences, unique to its own achievements.

Fantastic Beasts engrossing feats are thanks to the create genius of writer JK Rowling, & director David Yates. Its screenplay absolutely captivates, as it creates a new universe that prompts new imaginations, never before seen in the Harry Potter adaptations. From the premise that boasts of artistically designed creatures, to the fascinating magic, quirks & dark elements, the film's offerings are brand spanking new & peak wizarding world interesting. Amazingly, these are held together by brilliantly executed action sequences & striking special effects; both of which born from mastery of this always appealing universe. Also, well deserved props to the character setup that takes its time. Each backstory, motivation & peculiarity are given importance & never rushed, leading to quite an affinity towards its characters.

Apart from its filmmaking elements, Fantastic Beasts' casting also deserves mention. Colin Farrell, Ezra Miller, Alison Sudol & Katherine Waterston were absolutely stellar in their portrayals. It is however, Eddie Redmayne & Dan Fogler that takes the cake. Redmayne personifies Newt Scamander remarkably, conveying an overly likable character, driven, with a seemingly imperfect past that grants him a certain awkwardness that grounds & charms. Fogler meanwhile, dons the comic relief role to perfection. As Newt's Muggle comrade, he is the constant subject of both ire & intrigue, sparking interest or hysterical moments in his every interaction.

Overall, it is mind boggling that Fantastic Beasts has a meager 66 Metascore in IMDB. It is a film that stands on its own, a film that doesn't simply build on the success of the Harry Potter films rather, it earns its majesty through original, imaginative & praiseworthy writing & direction. With on point casting to boot, I for one, am enchanted on what comes next.