Director
David Yates

Starring
Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, Ezra Miller and Mads Mikkelsen 

The latest instalment of the Fantastic Beasts films might just be the best one yet. With Mads Mikkelsen coming on board to replace Johnny Depp as Gellert Grindelwald, there is a distinct tonal shift from the previous films. Mikkelsen brings a more subtle approach to the menacing character which in extension brings about a more emotional nuance to other characters such as Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law). 

As the title would suggest, the third film focuses very much on the Dumbledore family, with revelations about Albus and Gellert’s past, as well as the true lineage of Credence Barebone (Ezra Miller). All the while we have Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) and his regular cohorts on a mission to stop Grindelwald from taking over the Ministry of Magic and waging war on Muggles everywhere.  

Purists of the series may not enjoy the shift that Mikkelsen’s presence creates. His version of Grindelwald is vastly less cartoonish and obviously ‘evil’, but it seems almost necessary for the exploration of his and Dumbledore’s past. There could be some criticism that The Secrets of Dumbledore lacks in the action department in contrast to its predecessors, but ultimately, it’s the focus on character that makes it the most charming of the three. There is some real heart to this film that goes beyond the traditional fantasy that we’re accustomed to, and I for one think it makes it all the richer. 

The cast continue to bring their A-game, and the addition of Jessica Williams as Lally Hicks to the crew adds a little more spark. Overall the film adds a nice little segue into the remaining chapters in series. Its character and plot development are not only needed but also very much appreciated and it certainly sets us up for a brilliant crescendo when the series comes to its conclusion. 

Fantastic Beast: The Secrets of Dumbledore is in cinemas now.