Having binged the first two films almost immediately before seeing this one, The Secret of Dumbledore is hands down the best of the series. The first two films feel like mere backstory as this one has the highest stakes and the trilogy’s culmination. Like the Potter series, Rowling places little messages within the story, like Dumbledore’s urging to do what is right over what is easy, and expounds upon true leadership qualities versus being the angriest and the strongest.
I must throw out there that I was disappointed with two significant cast changes. The not-so-obvious one is Tina. Though Katherine Waterston appears in the film in a heartwarming moment, her replacement in Lally was bland. Although Tina was a wonderful and exciting character in the first two, no effort was made in giving this new role any equally exciting traits, other than she’s a strong, confident witch.
Secondly, there’s no denying that Mads Mikkelsen is amazing, but his portrayal of Grindelwald is so different (and “normal”) than what Johnny Depp initially brought to the role. Mikkelsen portrays Grindelwald as just a variation of himself, though he’s good as the evil magic wielder. On the other hand, Depp’s quirkiness made Grindelwald stand out as a visually interesting villain and gave the character depth and dimension. I’m not just referring to Grindelwald’s dead eye.
“…there’s a larger message about society and politics…”
It also goes without saying that Rowling does not have the depth of Tolkein, but her appeal is undeniable. Yes, the storytelling weaknesses within the very first book exist here. Harry Potter was a series written for children that enchanted adults. Fantastic Beasts was written for adults and happens to contain cute animals for the kids. Rowling is an acquired taste, but there’s no denying her ability to create a fantastic and enchanting world, which is on full display throughout The Secret of Dumbledore.
I appreciate that Fantastic Beasts does not directly connect with the Harry Potter series (not yet) outside of the presence of Dumbledore. There is more story to be told, and Rowling does not resort to cheap nostalgic winks and distasteful member berries as cheap moments to pop an audience.
In the end, the story won me over to the Fantastic Beasts series. Yes, Rowling’s trademark silly adventures and magical mishaps are littered throughout the series. Still, like the Harry Potter series, there’s a larger message about society and politics and that as individuals, the good in us can overcome a multitude of evil. That message is heard loud and clear in The Secret of Dumbledore.
"…hands down the best of the series."
