The third film in the "Fantastic Beats" series finds most of the original cast back for a new adventure. Eddie Redmayne returns as Newt Scamander as does Dan Fogler as the "muggle" Jacob Kowalski. Albus Dumbledore is played again, with great charm by Jude Law in an expanded role from the previous film. Also returning are Ezra Miller, Alison Sudol, and in what amounts to a cameo, Katherine Waterston. Jessica Williams joins the cast as Professor "Lally" Hicks. A welcome addition this time out is Mads Mikkelsen as Grindelwald, replacing Johnny Depp. He brings more depth and menace to the role than Mr. Depp.
Directed again by David Yates from a screenplay by J.K. Rowling, the film moves along at a calm almost leisurely pace (even the action sequences seem calm and lacking a real sense of excitement) with an engaging story, that at its core, is about a rigged election. The most exciting sequence involves Newt rescuing his brother, Theseus from a wizard prison. The CGI work is impressive creating a sense of magic throughout the film.
The series was originally planned as five films. This film does have its charms (pun intended) and a clear ending in case the decision is made not to move forward with more films.
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