Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay continues J.K. Rowling’s magical narrative, further expanding the wizarding world established in the Harry Potter series. The story picks up from where the first film left off, with the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald escaping custody and beginning to gather followers for his cause: to elevate wizards above all non-magical beings.
Magizoologist Newt Scamander is recruited by Albus Dumbledore, his former Hogwarts professor, to thwart Grindelwald’s plans. Newt is joined by Tina and Queenie Goldstein, and No-Maj Jacob Kowalski. The plot weaves through Paris and explores the growing threat posed by Grindelwald. The narrative is rich with twists and turns, delving into the characters’ complex relationships and revealing shocking secrets about their pasts.
The Crimes of Grindelwald deepens the lore of the wizarding world, introducing new magical creatures, spells, and locations, while exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and the moral complexities of power and choice.
Characters
- Newt Scamander: The compassionate magizoologist, tasked with a mission that tests his courage and loyalty.
- Albus Dumbledore: The revered Hogwarts professor with a complex past, who opposes Grindelwald’s vision for the wizarding world.
- Gellert Grindelwald: The dark wizard with a charismatic and manipulative nature, aiming to dominate the world.
- Tina Goldstein: An Auror with a strong sense of justice, who reconnects with Newt in their fight against Grindelwald.
- Queenie Goldstein: Tina’s sister, whose choices put her at odds with those she loves.
- Jacob Kowalski: The lovable No-Maj who finds himself once again caught up in magical adventures.
- Credence Barebone: A young man with a mysterious heritage that plays a pivotal role in the unfolding events.
- Leta Lestrange: Newt’s former Hogwarts classmate, whose past holds significant secrets.
Themes
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald explores several key themes:
- Power and Responsibility: The struggle between Grindelwald’s pursuit of power and those who oppose him highlights the moral responsibilities that come with power.
- Identity and Heritage: The film delves into the characters’ backgrounds, revealing how their identities and heritage shape their actions and choices.
- Loyalty and Betrayal: The complex relationships and shifting alliances among characters underscore themes of loyalty and betrayal.
- Love and Sacrifice: The narrative explores the sacrifices characters make for love and the impact of those choices on their destinies.
Publication History
Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald – The Original Screenplay was published on November 16, 2018, the same day as the film’s release. The screenplay was published by Little, Brown and Company in the United Kingdom and by Scholastic in the United States, ensuring that fans across the globe could delve into the intricacies of the story.
The screenplay is beautifully designed, featuring intricate illustrations and art that complement the magical narrative. It serves as a vital companion to the film, providing deeper insights into J.K. Rowling’s story and the wizarding world’s expanded lore.