‘Fantastic Beasts’ Already Has A Sequel In The Works? Plus, Eddie Redmayne Talks Wand Specifics

A lot more thought and work went into making Newt Scamander’s wand than Eddie Redmayne ever anticipated.

While fans wait anxiously for the premiere of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, the award-winning actor sat down with Entertainment Weekly to discuss the intricate process of wand making.

“I sort of assumed that I would have a wand sort of plopped in my hand,” Redmayne admitted.

According to Time, the process of designing Newt’s wand was a lot more intensive that Redmayne originally thought and included a sit down with director David Yates.

“But the reality is that these amazing props designers come, and then you have really a quite intricate discussion with [director] David Yates about what qualities Newt has. He’s not a showy guy, Newt, so I wanted it to be quite simple.”

In the end, Yates and Redmayne chose to make the wand out of ashwood. Although they didn’t incorporate anything fancy into the prop, they did make sure it displayed plenty of wear and tear.

“So we decided to have the wand be made out of ashwood, and it has quite a few scratches and sort of burn marks — so that you could get the sense that he’s been traveling the world with it, and it’s got quite a history to it,” Redmayne explained.

The actor also discussed what to feature in the wand’s handle. According to Yahoo, Redmayne thought about his character’s career and convictions before deciding on the proper handle material.

“But for the handle, they were sort of talking about whether it should be horn or leather, and I didn’t like the idea of animal products being used, given that he’s a zoologist,” Redmayne shared.

As a compromise, the prop makers on Fantastic Beasts decided to go with sand shell, which Redmayne described as having a “mother-of-pearly feel.”

Once the wand was created, Redmayne could hardly contain his excitement. In fact, his inner child came out after being presented the wand, which is a testament to how Redmayne is a huge Harry Potter fan himself.

“So we had all these discussions and went back and forth with designs, and when the thing arrived I was pretty excited. My inner 9-year-old was having a disco, and then I was actually presented with it!” he exclaimed.

Although fans have to wait a couple more months before the movie’s premiere, NY Daily News is reporting that the sequel to Fantastic Beasts is already in the works.

Warner Bros. recently announced the premiere date for the second film in the franchise, confirming reports that the movies will be part of a trilogy.

Redmayne has yet to confirm his involvement in the second film.

Fantastic Beasts is a spin-off of the Harry Potter franchise, created by J.K. Rowling, who is also serving as a screenwriter for the project.

While fans wait to become immersed in the magical world of Harry Potter once more, Rowling recently released her newest book in the hit franchise, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

The book is the printed version of the play that is currently showing in London.

The story takes place 20 years after Harry left Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and focuses on Harry’s son.

Unfortunately, Rowling confirmed that this will be the final book in Harry’s story.

“He goes on a very big journey during these two plays and then, year, I think we’re done,” Rowling revealed. “This is the next generation, you know. So, I’m thrilled to see it realized so beautifully but, no, Harry is done now.”

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is set scheduled to premiere in theaters on Nov. 18. The sequel is set to open in theaters on Nov. 16, 2018.

Tell us! Are you excited to see Newt’s wand in Fantastic Beasts? Let us know in the comments and check out the latest trailer below.

[Image via Warner Bros.]