Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A socially awkward wizard with a magical suitcase loses his pets in New York, teams up with a disgraced witch and a baker, and accidentally stops a dark wizard from exposing the wizarding world to the Americans, all while baking metaphors into pastries.

🍿 Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Newt’s Arrival and the Suitcase Mix-Up

In 1926 Newt Scamander, a magizoologist, arrives in New York City with a suitcase full of magical creatures. Due to a mix-up with a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob Kowalski, some of these creatures escape into the city. This sets off a chain of events that threatens to expose the wizarding world to the non-magical population. The scene establishes the central conflict of containing the magical world within the mundane.

The Hunt for the Escaped Beasts

Newt teams up with Tina Goldstein, a former Auror, and Jacob to recapture the escaped creatures. Their hunt takes them through various parts of New York City, showcasing the diversity of the wizarding world hidden within the city. Each creature’s recapture presents unique challenges, highlighting Newt’s deep understanding and affection for these animals. This section is filled with whimsical and action-packed sequences.

The Obscurus and Credence Barebone

Parallel to the creature hunt, a mysterious destructive force is terrorizing the city. This force is revealed to be an Obscurus, a dark magical entity formed when a young wizard or witch suppresses their magical abilities. The Obscurus is connected to Credence Barebone, an abused young man from an anti-witchcraft organization. The storyline adds a layer of social commentary and highlights the dangers of suppressing one’s true nature.

Graves’ True Identity and Intentions

Percival Graves, a high-ranking Auror, seems to be investigating both the escaped creatures and the Obscurus attacks. However, his true intentions are revealed when it’s discovered that he is actually Gellert Grindelwald in disguise. Grindelwald manipulates Credence to incite chaos and expose the wizarding world. The revelation sets up the larger conflict of the Fantastic Beasts series and connects it to the broader Harry Potter universe.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne): A kind and eccentric magizoologist who travels the world to rescue and document magical creatures.
• Tina Goldstein (Katherine Waterston): A determined and compassionate Auror who becomes an ally to Newt in New York.
• Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler): A good-hearted No-Maj baker who is accidentally swept up into the wizarding world.
• Queenie Goldstein (Alison Sudol): A free-spirited and empathetic Legilimens who develops a connection with Jacob.
• Credence Barebone (Ezra Miller): A troubled and abused young man who harbors a powerful and dangerous secret.
• Graves/Grindelwald (Colin Farrell/Johnny Depp): A high-ranking Auror revealed to be the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald in disguise, manipulating events to incite chaos.
• Mary Lou Barebone (Samantha Morton): The fanatical and abusive leader of the New Salem Philanthropic Society, who seeks to expose and eradicate witches and wizards.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Newt: “My philosophy is that worrying means you suffer twice.” – Newt shares his optimistic outlook, highlighting his ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Jacob: “I’m going to need a bigger case.” – Jacob says this in shock after seeing the inside of Newt’s magically expanded suitcase for the first time.
• Queenie: “Oh, I can’t wait to get you home, you’re absolutely exhausted. Put that kettle on, Tina.” – Queenie, using her Legilimens abilities, reads Jacob’s mind and expresses her kindness and hospitality.
• Graves/Grindelwald: “Are you sure you want to test me?” – Graves, who is secretly Grindelwald in disguise, threatens Credence when he begins to question his motives.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $180,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $234,037,575
• Worldwide Gross: $816,037,575

💥 Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Reviews

Personal Review

I was so excited to see this film, and it totally delivered! The creatures were amazing, especially the Niffler – I want one! Newt’s suitcase was like a magical zoo, and the way they captured the 1920s New York setting was perfect. Seeing Jacob’s reactions to everything was hilarious and heartwarming. I really loved how the story expanded the Harry Potter universe without feeling forced. Definitely going to watch it again!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Harry Potter fans”
  • “Fantasy adventure enthusiasts”
  • “Viewers who enjoy magical creature features”
  • “Those interested in historical fantasy settings”
  • “Anyone who enjoys a whimsical and heartwarming story”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild violence and peril”
  • “Some frightening images”
  • “Themes of child abuse and neglect”
  • “Brief suggestive content”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “Yates and Rowling successfully create a fascinating and whimsical film, seamlessly blending adventure and fantasy. Eddie Redmayne shines as Newt, making this a delightful return to the wizarding world. The creatures are fantastic, and the film’s message resonates.
• Variety: “A visually stunning and emotionally resonant film, ‘Fantastic Beasts’ captures the wonder of the Harry Potter universe while standing on its own. The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, making this a must-see for fans and newcomers alike. The visual splendor and storytelling is excellent.
• The Guardian: “While the film may lack some of the original series’ charm, it’s still an entertaining adventure with fantastic creatures and engaging characters. Redmayne’s performance is a standout, and the film’s exploration of prejudice adds depth to the magical world. Overall, the acting and the effects are done very well.

Audience Reactions

The Niffler stole every scene it was in; it’s a comedic genius!: Viewers consistently praised the imaginative creatures and their stunning visual designs.

Jacob’s wide-eyed wonder made me feel like I was discovering magic for the first time.: Many appreciated the blend of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, which made the film accessible to both children and adults.

Overall Consensus: A visually stunning and entertaining expansion of the Harry Potter universe, praised for its imaginative creatures, engaging characters, and a blend of humor and adventure.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Costume Design)- 2017

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “J.K. Rowling made her screenwriting debut with this film.”
• “The design of Newt Scamander’s suitcase was inspired by antique luggage.”
• “Eddie Redmayne worked closely with movement coaches to develop Newt’s distinctive physicality and mannerisms.”
• “The film’s 1926 New York setting was meticulously researched to ensure historical accuracy in costumes and set design.”

🖥️ How to Watch Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them?

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is widely available for streaming and purchase. You can find it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, where you can rent or buy the movie. It’s also available on Apple TV for purchase. For those who prefer physical media, the Blu-ray and DVD versions are readily available at major retailers. Check your local listings for possible theatrical re-releases or special events.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, you might like these similar films:

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001): Shares the same magical universe and introduces the audience to a world hidden from ordinary humans.
• Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016): Features a group of unique individuals with extraordinary abilities, similar to the magical creatures in Fantastic Beasts.
• The Golden Compass (2007): Presents a fantasy world with magical creatures and a battle against oppressive forces.
• Men in Black (1997): Deals with hiding the existence of fantastical creatures from the general public.

🛒 Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Related Products

• LEGO Fantastic Beasts: Newt’s Case of Magical Creatures: Build and play with Newt Scamander’s suitcase, featuring various creatures and minifigures for imaginative play. This playset allows young builders to recreate scenes or invent entirely new magical escapades within the wizarding world, fostering creativity and storytelling.
• Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Illustrated Edition: Explore the world of magical creatures with stunning illustrations and descriptions, perfect for immersing yourself in the lore. The detailed illustrations bring these creatures to life, providing a visual experience enhancing the magic.
• Fantastic Beasts: Cases From The Wizarding World: This unique set includes replicas of Newt’s case, along with various memorabilia from the movie. These are for display and use within the books, creating a physical connection to the characters and setting.
• Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Movie Poster: High-quality print capturing the movie’s essence, perfect for decorating any fan’s space. High resolution and vibrant colors ensure it looks great on any wall.

🎧 Soundtrack

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Titles – Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them” – performed by James Newton Howard
• “There Are Witches Among Us” – performed by James Newton Howard
• “You’re The Cream In My Coffee” – performed by Ruth Etting

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

The Life of Newt Scamander: Why He’s the Perfect Hero For HIS Franchise (Harry Potter Video Essay)

If you’re a fan of Newt Scamander, you’ll love this video essay that explores his character in depth and argues why he’s the perfect hero for the Fantastic Beasts franchise. It’s a great watch for anyone interested in the character or the wizarding world.

How powerful is Newt Scamander?

Ever wondered how powerful Newt Scamander is? This short video analyzes his magical abilities and gives him a power scale score. It’s a fun and informative watch for fans of the character.

Every Beast We’ve Seen So Far in Fantastic Beasts 1/2 (45 Creatures Explained)

If you’re a fan of the Fantastic Beasts movies, you’ll love this video that explains all 45 creatures from the first two films. It’s a great way to learn more about the magical beasts and their role in the wizarding world.

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