Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald just had a "fans first" preview screening at Universal Studios Hollywood, and reactions have been largely positive.

It’s important to note that this is a fan screening, so many in attendance were already massive fans of the franchise. Still, if those who enjoyed the mainline Harry Potter films are on board with this spinoff sequel, it could be a positive sign for those on the fence about seeing the film.

Some reactions point towards Johnny Depp’s performance as Grindelwald as a particular highpoint while others praised the visuals and a story with many unexpected moments and a strong ending. Others found it to be particularly dark, and a major improvement over the original Fantastic Beasts film. All viewers were asked to keep spoilers and details to a minimum, however, as many tweeted out their reactions with the promotional hashtag #ProtectTheSecrets.

For more on The Crimes of Grindelwald, check out how much the sequel is expected to make in its opening weekend, and how a recent trailer confirmed long-held fan theories about Nagini.

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald hits theaters on November 16, 2018.

Colin Stevens is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Twitter.