Fantastic Beasts: Crimes of Grindelwald is the second installment in a five movie series. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them came out in 2016 which is a part of the Wizarding World by J.K. Rowling. On Oct. 16, fans sat in the theaters to embrace the universe once again.

Many recognizable names were casted like Jude Law as Albus Dumbledore and Johnny Depp as Gellert Grindelwald. There are even some new names to the movie industry joining the film with young Newt Scamander being played by Joshua Shea. Shea resembles his older self, played by Eddie Redmayne, not only in appearance but in voice as well.

The story follows Newt Scamander and his band of misfits and outsiders from London to Paris, chasing after not only Grindelwald, but Credence Barebone (Ezra Miller). Barebone, on the search for his true identity, is wanted dead by many authorities. This is the story of false siblings, old friendships, reconnected love, and the “greater good”.   

New characters and storylines are introduced, following the friendships, romances, and tragedies of Newt, his brother Theseus, portrayed by Callum Turner, and Leta Lestrange, portrayed by Zoë Kravits. Although there are several complicated plotlines to follow, they all connect in the end.

The film covers many topics that can still be considered relatvent in some parts of the world today. Grindelwald tries to corrupt a member of the good side, by planting the idea of freedom to love whomever they choose. Many characters discuss miscommunications and basic complications of being an adult. However, things get even deeper when viewers realise that it is the 1920s and everyone is still traumatized by the war, even going to the lengths of predicting another one. Over all the messages of Fantastic Beasts are love, war, heartbreak, death, family, and decisions

There are many overlapping aspects from the Harry Potter series that make appearances in this film. Fans get to see young Dumbledore, famous Hogwarts headmaster, while he is still just a teacher. There is also a big reveal from the trailers that Voldemort’s right-hand snake, Nagini, played by Claudia Kim, makes mores than just an appearance and she is not quite how fans remembered her. Viewers get to see the nostalgic set of Hogwarts yet again, making them feel right at home.

James Newton Howard created a suspenseful and fantastical soundtrack that fits hand in hand with the scenes. Excitement, wonderment, and fear are all portrayed through the music.

Costumes fit the 1920s perfectly, from outwear, like coats and scarfs, to their actual outfits, such as three piece suits and elegant, but casual.

Special effects such as the magnificent creatures, mystical scenery, and all around magic were shown throughout the entire film. At points the effects were so realistic and believable.

The ending of the film left many of it’s viewer shocked and ready for more. The third edition to the series is planned to come out in around two years.