Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore is spell-binding!
Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” is the newest adventure in the Wizarding World. The film features an ensemble cast led by Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, Ezra Miller, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, Callum Turner, Jessica Williams, Katherine Waterston, and Mads Mikkelsen. Unfortunately, much controversy has been surrounding this franchise, from replacing Depp, J.K. Rowling’s public statements, and Ezra Miller’s continued police trouble. Still, this movie is highly anticipated by Harry Potter fans and will be in theaters starting April 15th.
Synopsis
Set in the 1930s, the story leads up to the Wizarding World’s involvement in World War II. It will explore the magical communities worldwide. With Grindelwald’s power rapidly growing, Albus Dumbledore entrusts Newt Scamander and his friends on a mission that will lead to a clash with Grindelwald’s army. He will lead Dumbledore to ponder how long he will stay on the sidelines in the impending war.
The Secrets of Dumbledore is easily the best film in the Fantastic Beasts franchise. It is full of action-packed wand battles, clever humor, more exotic location, and dangerous beasts. Jude Law as Dumbledore has been an excellent casting choice since day one, and his ability to bring the younger Professor Albus Dumbledore to life is majestic.
Eddie Redmayne’s Newt Scamander and Dan Fogler’s Jacob Kowalski are a staple of the franchise. These two are responsible for the most fun and humor we have seen in this trilogy. I hope they utilize Newt and Jacob together more in future installments. Not seeing Johhny Depp return as Grindelwald was very strange, but Mads Mikkelsen, who takes the mantle in this film, does a great job. There is no arguing about Mikkelsen’s talent and bringing tons of charisma to this role. I am delighted to see him finally in the Wizarding World, which is long overdue.
In addition, the film’s plot is fantastic as the focus turns to the Dumbledore family, and we finally return to Hogwarts. Ultimately, I think the franchise is now aware of which characters the future installments to focus on and give more screen time to so that they can fully satisfy Harry Potter fans.
Verdict
I give Fantastic Beast: The Secret of Dumbledore 4 out of 5 stars. It is a visually impressive action adventure that offers magical entertainment. Harry Potter fans will love the return to Hogwarts, which this spin-off series should have done from the beginning.
If you are a Harry Potter/Fantastic Beasts fanatic or know of one, then check out The Noble Collection who sent us this poseable Bowtruckle and Newt Scamander’s Journal.
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis. He is a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.