A prequel to the international blockbuster Harry Potter series, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” transports the audience to New York, 1926. Its stunning visuals and outstanding cinematography makes the fantasy adventure film a masterpiece.

Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) is a clumsy self-proclaimed magizoologist, someone who breeds and nurtures magical creatures. While passing through New York, his suitcase–a portal into the creatures’ home–accidentally falls into the hands of a No-Maj, a non-magical human (American muggle). From there, Newt’s magical creatures are unintentionally released into the city.

The escaped creatures wreak havoc in the city during this highly strained period between No-Majs and Wizards who are on the brink of war. The intolerance for magic in America puts Scamander and his newfound friends in a tight spot, between protecting the city or not allowing any of the No-Majs to know his true identity.

Intolerance and trauma are a few heavier themes the directors dabble with. Witches and wizards are forced to suppress their powers because of their fear of persecution by anti-magic extremists called the Second Salem who want to bring back the witch trials, lending to the suspense and climax.

Character development was a bit lacking, preventing the audience from fully empathizing with the characters. A clearer understanding of their background is assured to be revealed in the following films by the director, David Yates, and J.K. Rowling in this five-part series.

“You don’t need to know anything about Harry Potter, and you will enjoy this. Of course if you do, it gives you a slightly different spin and different appreciation for it.” David Heyman, producer of all eight Harry Potter films, said in an interview with MTV.

The brief references to the Potter world is enough to satisfy even most hard-core Harry Potter fans while welcoming a new audience. This is a refreshing new take into the wizarding world outside of Hogwarts’s little bubble. J.K. Rowling’s first screenplay showcases her plot development and creativity.

The film brings back the childlike wonders of a fantasy world and is a must see movie for all ages.