Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore is a 2022 fantasy film directed by David Yates and produced by Warner Bros. Pictures. It is the third installment in the Fantastic Beasts series, which serves as a prequel to the Harry Potter films, and is based on a story by J.K. Rowling. The film features returning characters played by Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander, Jude Law as Albus Dumbledore, and Mads Mikkelsen as Gellert Grindelwald, who replaces Johnny Depp in the role.
Set in 1932, the film begins with a brief encounter between Dumbledore and Grindelwald in a Muggle teashop, where they acknowledge their past relationship and differing ideologies. Grindelwald expresses his intent to dominate the Muggle world, while Dumbledore denounces this plan as madness. Due to a blood pact made in their youth, Dumbledore cannot confront Grindelwald directly, so he recruits Newt Scamander and his allies to thwart Grindelwald's ambitions.
The plot follows Newt and his companions as they embark on a mission to stop Grindelwald from gaining power during the election for the new Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards. Newt's brother Theseus, along with Jacob Kowalski and Lally Hicks, join him in this endeavor. They face numerous challenges, including rescuing Theseus from the Erkstag prison and preventing an assassination attempt on one of the candidates.
A significant aspect of the story revolves around a magical creature called the qilin, which possesses the ability to see into one's soul and predict the future. Grindelwald seeks to use this creature's powers for his own gain. The climax occurs during the election ceremony in Bhutan, where Grindelwald manipulates events to secure his position but is ultimately thwarted by Newt and his team.
The film explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the consequences of power. It culminates in a dramatic showdown that reveals Credence's true parentage and his connection to Dumbledore's family. In a twist of fate, the surviving qilin bows to Vicência Santos, who becomes the new Supreme Mugwump, while Grindelwald's plans are foiled.
Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its visual effects and performances but criticism for its convoluted plot and pacing. The film grossed over $400 million worldwide and aimed to further develop the Wizarding World narrative while setting up potential future installments in the franchise.