Review of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018) by Dave C — 16 Nov 2018

Please, do not let yourself be discouraged by the mainstream, professional movie critics cited here. They do not comprehend the historical arc of the Dumbledore vs. Grindelwald plot. See the film while it's still in theatres.

Movie critics only know how to review one movie at a time, as if it were a stand-alone experience. "The Crimes of Grindelwald" is an essential part of the Potter/Scamander saga. ### It's not a typical movie experience -- it's something new -- a beautiful bridge to the next chapter. The critics don't understand the need for this second chapter to be full of exposition -- J.K. Rowling has to lay out the history that has preceded Grindelwald's escape from Ministry custody and the beginning of his political ascendancy. In my opinion, her exposition takes the form of compelling revelations about the many new characters we meet here in "Fantastic Beasts II." Each new character's history is intertwined with the building conflict between the former intimate friends, Dumbledore and Grindelwald. It's a lot of information to pack into one film, and I think David Yates visualizes it beautifully. In addition, we begin to know the charismatic Gellert Grindelwald, and I feel that Johnny Depp is the perfect actor to portray him.

If you care about the world Rowling has created -- in books, and now on film -- go back to Book Seven, "Deathly Hallows." Review the history of the Dumbledore family and the deadly impact of Albus's infatuation with Grindelwald. (It's not all there, in the two "Hallows" movies.) Rowling is weaving an important narrative, connecting the fantasy world of magic and the very real political catastrophes of 20th-century Europe and America. The shy, unassuming Newt Scamander must be the central character of this epic drama, as Harry was for the turn-of-the-millenium conflict with Voldemort. For the story to proceed, I think we need to support Rowling and David Yates -- at the box office.