Comparing Fantastic Beasts to the Harry Potter Series: A Critical Assessment

The Fantastic Beasts series, like its predecessor the Harry Potter series, has garnered a passionate fanbase and critical attention. It is often compared with the beloved Potter films, both for their magical audacity and storytelling styles. While some viewers enjoyed the first Fantastic Beasts film, concerns were raised regarding the inclusion of the Grindelwald plot and the perceived lack of cohesion. This article delves into the various aspects that differentiate these two series, providing a comprehensive comparison.

Production Quality and Acting

From a production quality standpoint, Fantastic Beasts indeed appears to have elevated the bar. It's been a decade since the first Potter film, which means a wealth of experience and resources are now available. The primary difference is the casting, with Fantastic Beasts featuring adult actors in all major roles, a stark contrast to the young cast of the Potter series. Emma Watson, Rhbilder Grint, and Rupert Grint, despite their talents, were still adapting to their roles early in their acting careers. Daniel Radcliffe, while having some weaker moments, has delivered standout performances that resonate with audiences.

Storytelling and Screenplay

The flow of the narrative differs significantly between the two series. J.K. Rowling, who penned the novel series, is now writing the screenplay directly for the Fantastic Beasts films. This approach results in a smoother and more unified storytelling experience, unlike the Potter films, which were a series of interconnected scenes. The screenplay in Fantastic Beasts feels more cohesive and natural, where details and plot points are woven seamlessly.

Special Effects and Visuals

In terms of visual effects, Fantastic Beasts has an undeniable edge. The series benefits from the latest, more advanced technology that was unavailable during the Potter era. While the difference is not as vast as between the two eras, the effects in Fantastic Beasts feel more polished and well-executed. A particular highlight is the use of CGI in the first Fantastic Beasts film, such as the firestorm scene in the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, which required an arduous eight-month process. Similarly, the entire cave scene in Beasts is also entirely CGI, showcasing the technical prowess of the filmmakers.

Cinematography and Soundtrack

Harry Potter has the edge in cinematography, with Bruno Delbonnel's work standing out. The visuals in Fantastic Beasts are also impressive, but they lack the same level of detail and beauty that Delbonnel brings to the Potter films. As for the soundtrack, while James Newton Howard does an excellent job in Fantastic Beasts, it often falls short compared to the more dramatic and intense scores from the Potter series. James Ejler and Patrick Doyle, who worked on the Harry Potter films, created a soundtrack that suited the tone of the story perfectly.

Content and Personal Preferences

Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role when comparing these two series. Harry Potter's rich content and intricate plotlines have a loyal following. With only one Fantastic Beasts film to evaluate, its content is still under scrutiny. Time will tell how the series will evolve and whether it will find its place alongside the beloved Potter series. For now, the jury is still out on the ongoing comparison, with both series offering unique experiences for fans of the magical world.

Conclusion: Both the Harry Potter series and Fantastic Beasts have their strengths and weaknesses. While Fantastic Beasts excels in acting, special effects, and storytelling, the Harry Potter series garners praise for its exceptional cinematography and immersive soundtrack. The comparison isn't just about the films themselves but also about the evolution of the storytelling and the filmmakers' approach to these magical worlds.