'Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them' Reviews Are In; Gets Mixed Reviews; Special Effects Great But Plot Falls Flat?

Before "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" hits the theatres, some critics had a preview of the film. Here is a round-up of what they are saying about J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter spinoff "Fantastic Beasts" film.

The "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" is a good movie offering viewers imaginative and exciting magical world. The review adds that half of the movie was "overstuffed" with subplots that the movie starts losing shape. However, the review ends with admiration of "Fantastic Beasts" film's distinction from the Harry Potter series, and uncertainty if the spinoff movie requires four more films.

The Holywood Reporter thinks the movie "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" will be well-received by "Harry Potter" fans that are still craving for another Potter backstory. When it comes to originality and effects "Fantastic Beasts" is impressive, but citing a CG illusion in the scene seeming quite unconvincing. The review adds that while the character sometimes fail to bond in the movie, the "Fantastic Beasts" clearly shows J.K. Rowling still carries more stories up her sleeve.

While the film "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" looks fantastic special effects-wise, the critic finds the movie "lifeless." The cast performances, Redmayne's in particular, are "flat." Then, the critic finds the material "thin" and the entire "Fantastic Beasts" is not as magical as Hogwarts. The review ends with the optimism that with the "weird" and "wondrous" creatures, there will be a bigger story in the upcoming 5 chapters.

The Variety believes that J.K. Rowling's "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" will be loved by "Harry Potter" fanatics. The review adds that while a new director could give a refreshing view of the spinoff "Fantastic Beasts" film, David Yates exceeded expectations at challenging visual effects issues in the movie. The film's Queenie and Kowalski subplot, adds the review, is a charming detail, add to that hints of half-bloods, expect more from these details in the sequel of "Fantastic Beasts" movie.

Some of the reviews say that the most interesting part of "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" is its creatures. Sadly, these imaginative creatures fall short in recapturing the magic in "Harry Potter" adventures. It just doesn't add up critics say.

The "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them" releases on November 18, 2016.