Welcome back to the Wizarding World!

Eddie Redmayne stars in the brand new addition of J.K. Rowling’s vast universe as the magizoologist Newt Scamander, who has a magical suitcase full of creatures. What will he do when some of them manage to escape in the busy streets of New York?

The Harry Potter prequel had special effects that truly made the fantastic beasts fantastic – and so real! My favorite part about the film is its focus on the magical creatures. Considering my love for animals and Harry Potter, it was very cool to see J.K. Rowling’s take on how they are in the Wizarding World.

Redmayne’s acting was so perfectly awkward yet simultaneously bold and heroic. It was refreshing to see a movie with a protagonist who was not the Gryffindor or otherwise too tough, strong man.

Seeing a Hufflepuff as the lead on screen was charming, especially one who called himself the “mom” of the creatures he cared for. I’m excited to see more about his character in future installments, as J.K. Rowling confirmed there will be multiple films.

It’s definitely become one of my favorite movies, perhaps more-so than the original Harry Potter films due to its main character being someone that appeals to me the most. However, the unravelling of the plot was obvious if you really thought about it throughout the film, and I found some characters a bit boring, like Tina. I couldn’t enjoy her character because of her personality. It seemed bland. Queenie and Jacob’s relationship made me very happy, though. Their chemistry on-screen was the most enjoyable to watch.

But overall, watching the film felt like coming home — as most reviewers would say. I can’t wait to buy it on DVD.