Beautiful Creatures is the kind of movie you want to see multiple times so you can catch every ounce of detail that was put into it. Fans of the book and fans of movies will enjoy this fantastic adaptation.

Richard LaGravenes, who wrote and directed the adaptation, clearly made a connection with the material that fans of the book will appreciate. He also added his own twists that only enhance the original material.

The cast is well rounded with Jeremy Irons, Viola Davis, and Emma Thompson holding down the main adult characters. Davis brings a depth and realness to Amma that enhances the character. Emma Thompson lets loose as Mrs. Lincoln, a closed minded evangelical who believes Lena and her family should be banished from town, even though they own it. But it is the moments when she is Sarafine that are truly captivating.

There is a scene between Thompson and Irons that is absolutely wonderful. Watching the two argue and banter over Lena’s fate is a truly enjoyable moment. Jeremy Irons plays Macon, Lena’s over protective uncle. Irons was a fantastic choice and one who many fans already pictured in the role.

The best casting choice of all however was Alden Enrenreich who plays Ethan. Enrenreich’s narrative is what drives the film just as it drives the novel. His ability to connect to the audience and make them want to know more about him is a strength of the movie. Enrenreich embodies Ethan Wate and fans of the books will appreciate just how right he gets it. He and Alice Englert definitely have on screen chemistry and a gift with banter.

Fans of the book should know a few things before seeing the movie. First, it is not an exact replica of the book. The movie takes the best part of the book and brings them to life. Yes things are different. Amma and Marian are one person and it doesn’t really change much. Yes the ending is different but not in a way that takes away from the story. Second, the movie is funny. There is an entire conversation about how in Titanic Leo could have been saved.

Lastly, you really feel like you are in Gatlin. The small town vibe and beautiful scenery bring small town life to a vivid reality. For those of you wondering about seeing the film without having read the book, do not fear. This movie was crafted to satisfy the book lovers without alienating the movie lovers. It should also be noted that while this is an adaptation of a young adult novel, it is not meant to be a replacement for other adaptations. Beautiful Creatures stands on its own.

Beautiful Creatures is a fantastic coming of age story set against a magical backdrop of good versus evil. Alden Enrenreich steals the show and will mostly likely be stealing hearts with his turn as Ethan Wate. This is a must see film for lovers of paranormal tales with a side of romance.

Grade: A-

Rated: PG-13 (for violence, scary images and some sexual material)

Beautiful Creatures opens in theaters on February 14, 2013.