First, the Recap:
Life can be a tad–strange–when you’re a wizard! The year is 1926, before the days of a certain other well-known mage and his intrepid companions, and one Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) has landed temporarily in New York City after traveling the world documenting the various magical beasts found within it. However, his trip takes an abrupt turn when an innocent No-maj (or Muggle), Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler) accidentally absconds with Newt’s suitcase, which is far from normal in nature. Inadvertently setting loose a myriad of creatures, it is soon up to Newt, with the aid of Jacob, a demoted Auror, Tina (Katherine Waterston), and her sister Queenie (Alison Sudol) to track down and recapture the escapees. But, while chasing beasts, the group faces their own hunter in the form of Auror Graves (Colin Farrell), whose own agenda is questionable, as well as a sinister threat that could spell disaster for wizards and No-maj alike.
Worth Seeing: YES
From the creative mind of “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling and brought to, well, fantastical life by director David Yates, this first installment in what is surely to become a full-blown series of adventures for Newt Scamander on screen dazzles with its sublime visual prowess, swiftly paced narrative, excellent combination of drama, humor, and action, all while simply ushering us back into the otherworldly realms of wizards and extraordinary critters. Redmayne’s Newt is a wonderfully enacted character, showcasing both his adeptness at magic, his passion to preserve his friends and suitcase-based denizens, while also being one socially awkward guy! Fogler’s Jacob is a stitch, Waterston’s Tina is affecting and genuine, Sudol’s Queenie is another fun breath of fresh air, and Farrell’s Graves is perfectly presented as a man of ever-changing loyalties and deeply keen skills. Folks, this is a worthy first shot leading to what should be some serious fun to come!
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
