Review of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016) by Johnny T — 26 Feb 2017

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them draws on Harry Potter's rich mythology to deliver a spinoff that dazzles with franchise-building magic all its own. Like the wizarding movies to which it's connected, Fantastic Beasts is better the darker it gets, especially in a robust final reel where the film fully hits its stride. The filmmakers beautifully balance goofy moments with Gothic darkness. Maintaining Yates as director lends a consistency to the project, and yet, it would have been refreshing to get a completely new take on Rowling's world with this series, especially considering how murky and self-serious they got in the final chapters. Still, Yates knows this world as well as anyone, and he excels at finding visual solutions for challenging ideas. Like the first chapter of any story, it has the burden of making you want to come back; and not just for the desperate satisfaction of knowing what's next. With impeccable production design and special effects it's always a feast for the eyes and Newt Scamander is such a decent sort, charmingly played by Redmayne, you never stop caring. As a world-building exercise, Fantastic Beasts often succeeds. It's charming, playful and welcoming in ways these movies haven't been since the first two installments, and the patchiness of the plot is often forgiven because these characters are likable, rather affable, and well-cast.

VERDICT: "In The Zone" - [Mixed Reaction] These kinds of movies are usually movies that had some good things, but some bad things kept it from being amazing. This rating says buy an ex-rental or a cheap price of the DVD to own. If you consider cinema, ask for people's opinion on the film. (Films that are rated 2.5 or 3 stars).