Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (4K Ultra HD)

I love this Series. Excellent Movie.

This film Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald is an action packed and suspenseful fantasy film that my husband and I fortunately had a chance to initially see in the theaters and fortunately now my husband and I can view this film as often as we like because I purchased the digital version via Amazon. The film features a vast group of actors/actresses who are well-known by many moviegoers:Eddie Raymane (Newt Scamander), Dan Fogler (Jacob Kowalski), Allison Sudol (Queenie Goldstein), Zoe Kravitz (Leta Lestrange), Johnny Depp (Gellert Grindelwald), Jude Law (Albus Dumbledore), Callum Turner (Theseus Scamander)Katherine Waterston (Tina Goldstein) and more actors/actresses. The way that the character of Grindelwald features significantly in the film relates to the charismatic/persuasive nature that Seraphina Picquery (Carmen Ejogo) gives a heads up to the other characters involved in the beginning of the film. This event foreshadows why Grindelwald is able to build up a team of people around him despite his history. Multiple leaders affiliated with the Ministry of Magic try to convince Newt Scamander to take up the mantle of dealing with Grindelwald. They even go as far in enlisting Theseus Scamander to convince Newt Scamander, however Newt Scamander has understandable reasons why he is initially hesitant. I refrain from saying more to be considerate to those taking the time to look at this review who are completely new to seeing this film. It was an easy choice for my husband and I to see this film in theaters and for I to purchase Fantastic Beasts Crimes of Grindelwald for my husband and I to see this film however much we prefer to for multiple reasons. My husband and I both enjoyed watching the first film and I have even had a Fantastic Beasts poster since later 2016 hanging on the apartment wall of where my husband and I live so naturally I had an inclination towards seeing this film when it was released. However, even if you are a complete novice to seeing this film, Fantastic Beasts Crimes of Grindelwald is worthwhile to see if you enjoy watching fantasy time films with magical and action packed slants.

Good movie

You can read movie reviews everywhere, if you’re like me, you wanted a review of the product/bonus content so here goes... If you’re wondering about different versions/retailer exclusive sets, as far as I know, only B&N has actual, exclusive content: a bonus clip on Nicholas Flamel. The other retailers seem to have different versions of fancy packaging with the same exact film/bonus content. Huge fan of the franchise and I was really hoping for some extensive bonus content being that these stories have no book to reference. Although it wouldn’t have stopped me from purchasing the DVD set, the bonus features are slim and somewhat unsatisfying. All told, there are 9 behind the scenes clips, sadly, most are rather short, ranging from 6-12 minutes with one exception. The exception being the 19 minute clip with Ezra Miller (Credence) and Evanna Lynch (Luna) geeking out watching a couple scenes from the movie. Arguably the two biggest Harry Potter nerd actors from the franchise, this was a treat to watch; I would love to see them do a whole movie commentary from the HP geek perspective! Disappointingly, there is no commentary version of the film from them or anyone else. Spoiler Alert! I’m certain these two have theories about things not being what they seem (ahem, another Dumbledore sibling, really?), or at least Evanna would...they do not discuss this even though the point is hit upon. Evanna (on camera, anyway) accepts the information at face value and Ezra plays coy that he can’t comment further because he knows too much. Jo Rawling herself is in several of the bonus clips, which is nice and not something I recall much from previous films. Random observation: her eyes are such a vivid and unnatural shade of blue in the clips that I found myself distracted from what she was saying wondering if they oversaturated in the editing process or if they digitally enhanced her eyes and why (weird, I know). The deleted scenes are short, only 7 minutes worth total. Most are inconsequential, save maybe two. I’m still scratching my head why the ballroom scene (seen in the movie preview before release) was ultimately cut from the film, it’s one of the scenes that makes a lot more sense being in the film. The digital download version is the only place you can watch the deleted scenes spliced back into the film, neither the Blu-ray or the DVD have this content. The deleted scenes appear in the digital extended release version with white lettered small font “Deleted Scene” in the lower left corner. Some people might find this distracting, but it didn’t bother me and I liked having the information. Some of the scenes are so short, blink and you would miss them. In one of the bonus features, Jo talks about the art department and how meticulous they are with every detail from papers, books, and small props to posters and sets and how accurately they match the (Art Nouveau) time period in Paris. She said it was her favorite department to visit and the clip showed tiny tidbits of what they do. I wanted more! I could easily have watched a full length documentary on how they created this new geography of the Wizarding World and the sumptuous, jaw dropping, immersive Art Nouveau stunner that is the French Ministry of Magic! I’m sure other HP nerds would be right there with me on that. In closing, if you had to have this for your collection, it is what it is. I suspect in a decade or so when this second storyline in the franchise wraps up, they might release some really fancy set with all of the Fantastic Beast films and (hopefully) much more bonus and behind the scenes footage. I just wish we didn’t have to wait so long for it.

Good watch

"Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" is a spellbinding journey that masterfully expands the wizarding world we all adore. Directed by David Yates and written by the legendary J.K. Rowling, this film is a visually stunning and narratively rich addition to the Harry Potter universe. **Plot and Storyline** The story picks up where the first film left off, diving deeper into the complex and darkening world of magical creatures and wizarding politics. Johnny Depp delivers a chilling performance as Gellert Grindelwald, embodying the sinister charisma of the dark wizard. Jude Law's portrayal of a younger Albus Dumbledore is equally compelling, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved character. The plot twists and turns, revealing secrets and setting the stage for an epic showdown between good and evil. **Characters and Performances** Eddie Redmayne returns as the endearing Newt Scamander, whose quirky charm and deep empathy for magical creatures continue to make him a standout character. The ensemble cast, including Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, and Ezra Miller, each bring depth and nuance to their roles, enriching the film's emotional landscape. Zoë Kravitz's portrayal of Leta Lestrange adds layers of intrigue and complexity, making her one of the film's standout characters. **Visuals and Special Effects** Visually, "The Crimes of Grindelwald" is a feast for the eyes. The special effects are breathtaking, bringing to life an array of magical creatures and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Paris to the majestic halls of Hogwarts, the film's settings are immersive and beautifully crafted. The magical duels are particularly spectacular, showcasing cutting-edge visual effects that enhance the film's action sequences. **Themes and Messages** The film delves into deeper themes of loyalty, identity, and the moral complexities of power. It raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of good and evil, and the choices that define us. These themes resonate strongly, adding depth to the fantastical elements of the story. **Overall Experience** "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" is an enchanting and thrilling addition to the Harry Potter saga. It balances intricate storytelling with stunning visual effects, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Fans of the series will appreciate the connections to the wider wizarding world, while newcomers will be drawn in by the compelling narrative and rich character development. In conclusion, "The Crimes of Grindelwald" is a magical adventure that captivates and excites. It is a must-see for anyone who loves the wizarding world and a testament to the enduring appeal of J.K. Rowling's creation. Prepare to be spellbound!

I like these movies best the characters are very likable. Enjoyed it.

It's November 1927, six months after the end of "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them", when Macusa finally captured Grindelwald. Now he's being transferred to Europe to stand trial for his crimes on their continent. Remember, as they tied his arms six months before, Grindelwald said, "Do you think you can hold me?" His confidence was not wishful thinking. There's a great escape sequence, and it all takes place before the opening credits, like a James Bond film. The Ministries of Magic in England and France now have two urgent jobs: recapture Grindelwald, and find Credence Barebone. Like the first Fantastic Beast film, this movie has lots of foreshadowing of the days of Voldemort and Harry Potter to come. The best is Nagini, but Nicolas Flamel is a nice touch (see what he has in his cupboard!), and the story of Dumbledore as a young man is a long time coming. The biggest surprise for me, though, and it wasn't a pleasant surprise, was Queenie. Say it isn't so! This set has both a BluRay and a DVD disc (as well as a code for downloading). Both discs have the movie, but the BluRay has many more Bonus Features. If you buy the movie on disc, subtitles and audio are available in several languages, on both the movie and the Bonus Features. Audio Options: English, English Descriptive Audio, French, Spanish. Also Portuguese on BluRay only (not on DVD) Subtitle Options: English, French, Spanish. Also Portuguese on BluRay only (not on DVD) Bonus Features: ...A... "J.K. Rowling: A World Revealed" (10 minutes) Commentators include J.K. Rowling, David Heyman (producer) and David Yates (director). Heyman: "I think Grindelwald is a much more interesting villain than Voldemort.... Grindelwald is, for me, immeasurably scarier, because he persuades, he makes sense, he talks in seemingly rational terms." ...B... "Wizards on Screen, Fans in Real Life" (14 minutes) This is a fun feature – but if you haven't seen the movie, it has spoilers. In August, 2018, Ezra Miller (plays Credence) and Evanna Lynch (played Luna Lovegood) get together to view preview scenes from "Crimes of Grindelwald". One thing they bring up, that I hadn't remembered, was that the first mention of Grindelwald in the movies is in the very first, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone". On the train, Harry and Ron open chocolate frog cards. The back of a card with Dumbledore states, "Professor Dumbledore is particularly famous for his defeat of the dark wizard Grindelwald in 1945." ...C... "Distinctly Dumbledore" (10 minutes) New commentators include Jude Law (plays Dumbledore), Colleen Atwood (costume designer), Eddie Redmayne (plays Newt) and Jonny Depp (plays Grindelwald). ...D... "Unlocking Scene Secrets" (49 minutes) If you like the how-they-did-that of films as much as the films themselves, you will really love these. Scenes include Return to Hogwarts, Newt's Menagerie, the Circus Arcanus, Paris and Place Cachée ("hidden square"), the French Ministry of Magic, and Grindelwald's escape and his ring of fire. The French Ministry of Magic feature is the only on on the DVD. If you're wondering, there is a real statue at the location for the entrance to the magical hidden world, but it looks nothing like the skirted woman in the movie. She's 100% CGI. I was disappointed! ...E... "Deleted Scenes" (15 minutes) Ten short scene-lets. Jonny Depp, in Bonus Feature D, says, "No one no matter who they are or how horrible they are, how evil they are, they don't wake up in the morning, look in the mirror and say, 'I'm going to go out and do really bad things today.' No, he's doing what he believes is right at whatever cost." Depp wouldn't have been my first second third or twenty-third choice for Grindelwald, but he did really understand his character. So his Grindelwald grew on me. 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5! "Magic blooms only in rare souls." Happy Reader