As a fan of the Harry Potter universe, the Fantastic Beasts films have been, unfortunately, underwhelming. But with a little bit of magic thrown into the screenwriting, I can finally say I’m a fan.
The series has always been lacking, well… Magic. Fortunately, The Secrets of Dumbledore sparks some charm.
It begins with a backstory of Dumbledore (Jude Law) and Grindelwald’s (Mads Mikkelsen) relationship and why the two men cannot make a threatening move against each other. As Grindelwald edges in on conquering the Wizarding World, Dumbledore forms his own army, so to speak. Newt (Eddie Redmayne) is back along with the fan-favorite Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler). With them are Theseus (Callum Turner), Newt’s brother, Yusuf (William Nadylam), and the elegant professor Eulalie Hicks (Jessica Williams).
The chemistry on screen among all the characters is off the charts. Everyone plays off of each other so well. A lot of that has to do with the material they’re given. The script is expertly written. Screenwriter Steve Kloves thrives with the foundation set by the other two films. The story is rich and charismatic as well as charming.
Director David Yates is no stranger to the Wizarding World and makes magic come to life once again. The pacing is gripping with an almost cat and mouse game played between Dumbledore and Grindlewald. Each scene is powered by a magnificent score with a few hidden melodies that bring a sense of nostalgia.
I felt like a kid again watching a Harry Potter film at a midnight screening, especially when they brought in the classic sweeping theme music that touches your heart.
On its third attempt, the Fantastic Beasts franchise finally gets it right. It may never receive the love Harry Potter had, simply because those movies were like catching lightning in a bottle. But it holds its own. Plus, it’s pretty awesome to see how experienced wizards use their magic. Unfortunately, I think it will suffer from the backlash of its creator. But for those who do give it a chance, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Review: Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore
Score
Review Nation Score
had, simply because those movies were like catching lightning in a bottle. But it holds its own. Plus, it's pretty awesome to see how experienced wizards use their magic. Unfortunately, I think it will suffer from the backlash of its creator. But for those who do give it a chance, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.