Despite the catchy subtitle, “Fantastic Beasts: Dumbledore’s Secrets”the third film J.K. Rowling of the franchise, is similar to the first, which is to say it feels like an extended prologue to a better movie that has yet to materialize.
Looking back, Rowling should have funneled her efforts from the Harry Potter sequel into a limited series, where the slow pace dictates the story.
In theory, a “young Dumbledore” movie would address some of the shortcomings of “Fantastic Beasts” by providing a more dynamic anchor than the shy and hesitant Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne).
Plus, the author has added more help this time around, partnering not just with director David Yates, but co-writer Steve Kloves, another franchise veteran. “Harry Potter”.
Still, the plot essentially revolves around Dumbledore (Jude Law), by virtue of his romantic bond with the evil Gellert Grindelwald (Mads Mikkelsen, deftly replacing Johnny Depp), who – in classic authoritarian fashion – seeks to dominate the wizarding world and wage war against Muggles.
Since Dumbledore cannot confront Grindelwald and his minions directly, he must recruit not just Newt, but an eclectic group of wizards and witches, as well as Newt’s Muggle friend Jacob (Dan Fogler).
But aside from Jessica Williams’ enhanced role as Eulalie “Lally” Hicks — who sports a 1940s gangster accent that takes some getting used to — they’re a pretty elusive bunch.
Above all, the latest “Fantastic Beasts” unfolds without much sense of urgency, showing a series of adventures and detours towards an anticipated showdown to thwart Grindelwald’s plans.
Having played villains in James Bond, Marvel and now Harry Potter films, Mikkelsen stands out as one of the franchise’s biggest surprises, as he scoffs, “With or without you, I’ll burn their world to the ground.” Thus, he introduces a sense of menace that trumps almost everything in the film.
However, even with this contribution and the production design with its characteristically impressive effects, “Fantastic Beasts” hardly comes to life.
The real misstep may have come when Warner Bros. let Rowling outline a five-film format, as opposed to at most a more conventional trilogy — though “Variety” has disclosed that the fourth and fifth films may depend on how “Dumbledore’s Secrets” fares at the box office.
Whatever the commercial verdict, the film delivers a mix that leaves you wanting more.
Like “The Crimes of Grindelwald”, “The Secrets of Dumbledore” is well done, but ultimately not exciting. And the compelling plot again takes us to a less-than-magical film.
Source: CNN Brasil
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