Directed by David Yates and written by J.K. Rowling in collaboration with Steve Kloves, Fantastic Beasts: Dumbledore's Secrets is the third installment in the Fantastic Beasts saga. Starring Eddie Redmayne, JudeLaw and Mads Mikkelsen, the film once again plunges viewers into the fascinating and tumultuous world of wizards. After a mixed box-office performance and various controversies, this chapter could mark the conclusion of the series initially planned in five parts.
The plot follows Professor Albus Dumbledore, played by Jude Law, who, aware of the threat posed by the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald, played by Mads Mikkelsen, cannot stand up to him alone. So he entrusts Norbert Dragonneau, the courageous and slightly awkward magizoologist, with the task of putting together a team of wizards, witches and a Muggle baker. Together, they must thwart Grindelwald 's plans to dominate the wizarding world. Their quest is fraught with pitfalls and revelations, from fantastic animals to fearsome enemies.
Aimed at fans of the extendedHarry Potter universe and new viewers alike, this film enriches the magical lore with new elements and engaging characters. The introduction of new fantastical animals and the deeper development of relationships between key characters, such as Dumbledore and Grindelwald, add an extra layer of engagement and complexity to the story.
The television premiere of Fantastic Beasts: Dumbledore's Secrets on TF1 on Sunday April 28, 2024 is an event not to be missed by fans of magic and adventure. Despite the challenges the franchise has faced, this film remains a captivating piece of themagical universe that J.K. Rowling began weaving decades ago. While the future of the saga remains uncertain, this third installment offers an opportunity to rediscover and savor the magic, emotion and adventure that are the hallmarks of this enchanting universe.
Our spoiler-free review of Fantastic Beasts: Dumbledore's Secrets (2022):
We've been waiting a long time to meet up with our favorite wizards, including the hilarious Norbert Dragonneau and his suitcase full of fantastic animals! Now it's here. The story picks up shortly after The Crimes of Grindelwald, as the wizarding world seeks to elect supreme leader of the International Confederation of Wizards. Albus Dumbledore, still bound by his blood pact with his former lover Gellert Grindelwald, tries to thwart his evil plans without confronting him directly. Rest assured, I won't say any more about the story!
This new adventure takes place in an extremely tense political context, where our heroes will have to show a great deal of cunning and skill. While the script goes into greater depth on the (often hidden) intentions of the characters, the film can sometimes be criticized for its lack of action, or even suspense. There are a few action scenes scattered here and there, but let's face it, they don't capture the attention of young teens over the film's 2h23 running time.
We regret the lack of action in this new opus. Admittedly, the special effects are as spectacular as ever, and the general atmosphere is much less sombre than in the previous episode (which for us is a good thing), but you sometimes have to hang on to follow the characters' adventures. And while we're on the subject of fantastic animals, while we're sure that viewers will be happy to welcome back Pickett, Norbert Dragonneau's favorite botruc and Teddy the niffleur, as well as a few new critters, we'd have liked to discover even more incredible new species to blow our minds.
On the casting front, however, the actors have outdone themselves! Mads Mikkelsen is vibrant with determination and bad faith as Grindelwald, Ezra Miller gives new depth to the character of Croyance and Eddie Redmayne is hilarious as the eccentric Norbert Dragonneau. And let's not forget Victoria Yeates as the sweet, generous Bunty.
In conclusion, the magic of this third episode lies in its well-crafted, captivating plot and top-notch acting.
Cinema: which film to see today, this Sunday December 22, 2024?
Not sure which film to see today? Well, we've got plenty of films to show near you. [Read more]
Feeling like curling up in front of the TV today? We've got the week's releases on your favorite streaming platforms, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+! [Read more]
Cinema: which film to see today, this Sunday December 22, 2024?
Streaming: what are we watching this Sunday December 22, 2024 on Netflix, Amazon and Disney+ platforms?
