This is a standard cinema screening review for Warner Bros. Pictures ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore’ – Starring Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, Ezra Miller, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, Jessica Williams, Callum Turner, Richard Coyle, William Nadylam and Mads Mikkelsen.
Synopsis
The movie continues some time on from the sequel Crimes of Grindelwald. This is where Gellart Grindelwald is creating a plot to take control of the wizarding world, as well as his dark plans for the Muggle world. The fate of both worlds are in danger, and Newt Scamander will need to assemble a team to protect them.
Review
The movie has a strong plot and is filled with dramatic and exciting action sequences. There are beautifully designed sets and clothing. As well as music and many scenes, that are very nostalgic to the Harry Potter movies. There is also an impressive supporting cast, that are a delight to watch and steal every scene they are in.
Eddie Redmayne has kept very consistent acting for his role as Newt. It was wonderful to see him back, after 4 years since the previous movie.
Although, Eddie Redmayne’s character is bringing everyone together. The focus has somewhat drifted away from Newt quite often, as the film now leads onto the perspective of Albus Dumbledore. The sub-title does of course imply; this is leaning into his secrets… as well as another person’s!
The creatures in the movie still play a huge part in piecing together the entire plot. It’s surprising how some of the scenes can be; when featuring these beasts. Especially, the squeamish moment where Grindelwald interacts with them.
Jude Law as Albus Dumbledore delivers strong acting in every scene that he’s in. Law has really continued to nail the younger mannerisms and the way Albus speaks, respectfully similar of Michael Gambon’s performance in the Harry Potter movies. It was facinating to see the movie delve more into his family. Specifically; the connection with his brother Abelforth (played by Richard Coyle).
Mads Mikkelsen was incredible in the role of Gellert Grindelwald. His appearance was a subtle, smartly dressed wizard (actually dressed similar to the Hannibal TV series and ‘Bond movie’ Casino Royale). Mikkelsen has always been superb for playing a villain. This character is very cold and manipulative in nearly every scene in this third installment.
Ezra Miller’s character Credence is still appearing lost in this world. There’s a very cool fighting scene that and the story near the end for him is very satisfying in this movie.
Jessica Williams was a standout role for me in the film, her performance was refreshing as Lally Hicks. Williams conveyed so much charisma and energy into her scenes.
Dan Fogler brings a great performance as Jacob Kowalski. His scenes are contrasted between humour and heartbreak. They really wrote him rather well in this movie! Jacob’s scenes are also what builds stronger empathy; for the wizards to stand up for the Muggles.
It was very disappointing, that Katherine Waterston’s role was reduced so much in this movie. There was hardly anything for the character, apart from two brief scenes! If Warner Bros. Pictures intend on making another sequel, they should include this character more. Newt had great chemistry with Tina Goldstein in the previous movies and this should have been perfect.
The pacing wasn’t rushed, there was plenty of time and focus on so many characters to develop within this story.
Final thoughts
Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore is a worthwhile movie to watch. The movie was so much better than expected, and I would be interested in seeing a sequel, that continues to focus more on Newt as well.
