Film Review: The Secrets Of Dumbledore

I was so excited to hear that Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore was finally coming out, and I couldn’t wait to see it at the cinema.

My verdict? It was fun, action-filled and entertaining!

The Secrets of Dumbledore contained more of the magic of the original Harry Potter series that we love so much compared to the first two films of this production (Fantastic Beasts And Where to Find Them, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald).

This HP companion series feels a little lost, to be completely honest. And the three episodes that make it up so far haven’t been consistent. The focus of the story has shifted from the MC and his stunning and unique magical creatures to Dumbledore’s backstory. Which is what we want of course, but it’s a weird ride.

Saying that, The Secrets of Dumbledore was very engaging and I preferred it to The Crimes of Grindwald by a mile. This one wasn’t as dark and gloomy, and the storyline was gripping.

Snippet from the Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore movie. Albus Dumbledore and other main characters.
Albus Dumbledore and his team (image source: The Guardian)

In Fantastic Beasts And Where to Find Them, Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler) and Queenie (Alison Sudol) captured my heart. In this one, they were just as adorable, strong and funny. The Hufflepuff MC showing awkwardness and compassion is something I find refreshing to watch since he isn’t your “typical” hero. We’re also introduced to other characters in The Secrets of Dumbledore who are vital to the plot to stop Grindelwald, and Lally (Jessica Williams) quickly became the favourite for me. The acting is on point throughout by all, but Dan Fogler as Jacob still manages to steal the show despite being a side character.

Something not to leave out in the review, of course, is the replacement of Johnny Depp as Gellert Grindelwald. Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen did an admirable job of stepping up as our villain. Though he didn’t have the flare that Depp brought to role. The energy nor appearance of Grindelwald as a character matched the previous films, which was a little disappointing.

Overall, the style, magic, cgi creatures and cinematography was a delight and again reminded me of the HP series. Stepping back into Hogwarts was nostalgic and always feels like a lovely treat.

Fantastic Beasts 3 wasn’t perfect by any means, but it was a great fantasy film to watch on the big screen.

Lets hope the next one follows suit, and doesn’t digress any more. Nor go back to the wishy-washy feel of The Crimes of Grindelwald. I am actually excited to see the story develop and come to what will no doubt be an epic conclusion.

Side note: I’m still conflicted about the situation with Rowling, yet decided to separate the story from the author. People might feel differently and will not want to continue seeing or supporting what she writes and that’s understandable.

Until Next Time,

M

12 responses to “Film Review: The Secrets Of Dumbledore”

  1. Thanks for sharing your great review! I really enjoyed the first 2 films in this series so I’m looking forward to eventually watching this one although it probably won’t be until we can rent it digitally at home.

    1. Thanks Hayley! That’s fair enough – make sure you have some popcorn at the ready and you’re set 🙂

  2. I am not a fan but loved the first Fantastic Beasts, I found it quite funny so after reading your review I might have to give this a shot!

    1. Yes the first one was fun, magical, light-hearted but deep in some moments, whereas the second I thought was all doom and gloom. Luckily this one finds a balance – hope you love it!

  3. I saw that this is in the cinema and wondered about it. You have written a great review! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experience.

    Lauren – bournemouthgirl

    1. Yes – it’s a weird one, but I did enjoy it 🙂 Thank you!

  4. Great review! I was on the fence about watching this as I didn’t enjoy Crimes Of Grindelwald as much as the first one but you’ve convinced me to give it a go. I was really sad to Johnny Depp replaced though! Thank you so much for sharing x

    1. It definitely has picked up again – I hope you enjoy it! And yes, it’s sad, Grindelwald is lacking Johnny Depp’s touch for sure x

  5. Great review! I will definitely be watching it soon!

  6. Thanks for your review! We’ve been wondering if this movie is worth seeing.

  7. I have yet to watch this (still) but my husband and I have wanted to since it came out — thanks for the review; I think we will give it a go!

    1. It really is worth watching, I hope you both enjoy it 🙂

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