Fantastic Beasts: the Crimes of Grindelwald

The first movie theatre report of the year, as me, Noshi and her brother went to see the latest Wizarding World instalment right before new year.

And with the first movie being such great fun, I wondered what this would bring.

The movie starts with Grindelwald's escape in America, and he sets chase after Credence, residing now in Paris.  Here he has teamed up with Nagini, yes, the same that would become Voldemorts companion in a few decennia.

Newt in the meantime is forbidden to leave London, but as we learn he works for Dumbledore, he travels to Paris after all, joined by Jacob who is looking for Queenie.  Here he traces the trail of Tina and Grindelwald, leading to the Lestrange tomb where Grindelwald wants to show the wizard community why they should rule.  A large fight ensures, costing the lives of some dear friends, but it unveils the big secret of the Lestrange family... and in the aftermath, the true identity of Credence.

It's not a feel good movie with a lot of fun beasties like the first one, but a far more grim, setting up the pieces story.  While I liked a lot of references to the latter movies, even with Nicolas Flamel appearing, I am going to get the wrath of the female audience over me with the following statement: I think Johnny Depp was miscast for the role.  His charisma is present, but he doesn't carry that sort of "regal presence" the character needs as a pureblood.

But that doesn't mean I'm not waiting for the third part...