Review of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016) by Andre M — 15 Aug 2017

With a very simple plot that lacks the weighty feel and inherent sense of approaching catastrophe that the original Potter films had, a script that has trouble finding the balance between whimsical and dark, as well as somewhat bland (although very likeable) characters, 'Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them' certainly isn't the best entry into the Potter franchise.

That being said, when seen as a stand-alone project, it is still an enjoyable film in its own right, despite its shortcomings, and easier to follow if you know next to nothing of the Potterverse other than what you've seen on-screen.

Yes, its magic may still be dormant, but it is there and perhaps it's just waiting to burst forth in the next few films. Clearly meant as an introduction to a new world and characters, here's to hoping there is a whole backstory, full of intrigue, yet to be revealed.