Fantastic Beasts

All the Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them promotions say the movie will premier in the US on November 18. But when I went to AMC.com to purchase the tickets, I found there would be several showings the evening of November 17. The early release, however, was missed by many because we enjoyed the newest Harry Potter film in a half-filled theater!

My short review is FB will be most enjoyed by those who have read all the Harry Potter books and/or seen the movies, several times. There were numerous references to the series, which the audience clearly loved. I also feel FB will be better enjoyed in a second viewing. The film is extremely fast-paced and I think it'll help to know what's coming. Of course, as expected, the special effects are amazing. And, with the newest technology, there is more magic in this one film than in all the other HP films combined. I won't spoil the "reveal" toward the end, although the media will do that I'm sure, but something happens that was a complete surprise to me and, apparently, the entire audience. So much fun!

I saw FB with my oldest grandson, Elliott, daughter, SIL, and son. Elliott wore his Halloween costume and was a big hit. A business marketing company was hosting a private showing for their clients and asked Elliott to pose with the full-size image they had of Newt Scamander. They then gave Elliott an official FB journal ($12.99 retail value) and bag of HP gummy slugs. Then the theater manager gave Elliott a FB poster. And one of the theater employees dressed as a Hogwarts student asked to shake Elliott's hand, showing a student's respect for a favorite author.

It was such a fun experience. And I'm so thrilled and pleased that the HP franchise is still alive and thriving. There will be five FB films with the next one due in 2018. Thank you J.K. Rowling!