Watch Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018) - Movie Peek
IMDB Rating: 6.5/10
Title: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Director: David Yates
Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Johnny Depp, Jude Law, Katherine Waterston, Ezra Miller, Dan Fogler, Zoë Kravitz
Overview:
"Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" is the second installment in the Fantastic Beasts series, a prequel to the Harry Potter films. Set in the 1920s, the movie follows magizoologist Newt Scamander as he gets caught in the growing conflict between the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald and those who seek to stop him. With its darker tone and deeper dive into the Wizarding World's past, the film expands upon J.K. Rowling’s magical universe.
Plot and Themes:
The story picks up after Grindelwald’s escape from custody. He begins gathering followers to advance his vision of magical dominance over non-magical beings. Meanwhile, Albus Dumbledore enlists Newt Scamander to oppose him. The film delves into themes of loyalty, identity, and the moral complexities of power. While the expansion of the Wizarding World's lore is intriguing, the plot can feel convoluted due to numerous subplots and character arcs.
Performance:
Eddie Redmayne continues to bring charm and quirkiness to Newt Scamander, making him a unique and likable protagonist. Johnny Depp delivers a chilling and charismatic performance as Grindelwald, portraying him as a manipulative yet compelling villain. Jude Law’s portrayal of young Dumbledore is a highlight, capturing the character’s wisdom and mysterious nature. However, some supporting characters feel underutilized, particularly Katherine Waterston’s Tina and Ezra Miller’s Credence.
Cinematography and Technical Aspects:
Visually, the film is stunning, with detailed set designs, mesmerizing magical effects, and atmospheric cinematography. The darker color palette aligns well with the film’s serious tone. James Newton Howard’s score enhances the magical ambiance, though it lacks a truly standout theme. The action sequences are well-executed, but at times, the fast-paced editing makes them overwhelming.
Strengths:
- Impressive world-building and expansion of Wizarding lore
- Strong performances by Johnny Depp and Jude Law
- Stunning visual effects and cinematography
- Darker and more mature themes add depth to the series
Weaknesses:
- Overly complicated narrative with too many subplots
- Some characters feel underdeveloped or sidelined
- Pacing issues, with some slow moments dragging the story
- Lack of a clear emotional core compared to the first film
Verdict:
"Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" is an ambitious entry in the Wizarding World franchise, offering a visually stunning experience with strong performances. However, its convoluted plot and underdeveloped characters may leave some viewers frustrated. Fans of the Harry Potter universe will appreciate the lore expansion, but casual viewers may find it less engaging.
⭐ Rating: 3.5/5