The Case of Beasts by Mark Salisbury

January 14, 2018     erinthebooknut     Book review

The Case of Beasts by Mark SalisburyThe Case of Beasts: Explore the Film Wizardry of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Mark Salisbury
Published by Harper Design on November 18th 2016
Pages: 160
Goodreads

New York Times bestseller

Take a front-row seat and witness the filmmaking magic that brought J.K. Rowling’s script for Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them to the screen.  Explore the realm of fantastical creatures that roam the wizarding world and discover the magical cast of characters in pursuit of them.

Officially licensed by Warner Bros. Consumer Products, and designed by MinaLima, designers of the graphic props for the Harry Potter films as well as Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, The Case of Beasts delivers an enchanting interactive experience by sharing filmmaking secrets, film photography and artwork, and behind-the-scenes stories from cast and crew. Full of removable, facsimile reproductions of props and paper ephemera from the movie, along with some very special effects, this collectible volume offers a unique look from the talented group who created this movie magic.

4.5 Nuts

I’ve always been really interested in how films are made. I studied acting in college, I love watching all the extra features and extended appendices about the process. I own dozens of books about the making of high budget franchises like Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter. So seeing the Case of Beasts for $12 meant I’d be adding another book to the collection.

But this isn’t any regular old movie book. The Case of Beasts is way cooler than that. This book gives you everything. Character profiles, wands, concept art, filmmaking facts, even details about the props. But none of that olds a candle to what makes this book a must have for the biggest Potterverse fans.

Along with all the usual film junk are removable reproductions of actual pieces from the film. MACUSA IDs, reprinted leaflets, maps, wand permits, and more! I love going through each piece, it’s so much fun. They’re all so detailed, all for a mass produced book. Imagine how detailed the originals are.

This is one of those books that will show you something new every time you open it. You’ll never catch everything all in one read. It’s a great conversation starter, a coffee table book, and perfect for that random boring moment.

Hardcore Potter world fans would love this book, film nerds too! Other folks? Well maybe a few reads but unless it’s on sale the $45 regular price tag might be a little steep. But $12 in BAM’s Clearance section? Unbeatable.

What would you do with a book like this? Share your thoughts in the comments.

From my shelf to yours,

Erin

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