By Renee’ C.
Rating: 5 (Out of 5 Reels)
At the end of the first film, the powerful Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) was captured by MACUSA (Magical Congress of the United States of America), with the help of Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne). Nevertheless, making good on his threat, Grindelwald escaped custody and has set about gathering followers, most unsuspecting of his true agenda: to raise pureblood wizards up to rule over all non-magical beings. In an effort to thwart Grindelwald’s plans, Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help, unaware of the dangers that lie ahead (Rotten Tomatoes).
Having seen all of the Harry Potter films and the first Fantastic Beasts I was very much looking forward to seeing this latest installment for I am a total sci-fi/fantasy film junkie. The first installment was wonderful but had some elements I did not like surrounding some of the animals. This film on the other hand took the best parts of the first film and not only made them better but introduced several new characters who only add to the depth and richness of this genre. Casting Law as Dumbledore is a stroke of genius because he is a fantastic actor and perfect for this role. There are several sub-plots going on behind the main story and that is what keeps the moviegoer interested.
Writer J.K. Rowling is one of the best writers on the planet and I look forward to whatever she brings us into the future. As expected, the visual effects in this film are stunning because I am sure their budget was enormous and it shows. This film grabs you at the start and keeps you in the game until the end and, yes, they left the ending wide open for another installment, which I very much look forward to seeing.