Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald (2018)

J.K Rowling's ultra-popular "Wizarding World" has taken the world by storm. For almost 20 years, her magical works have entertained millions worldwide. With this being the second film in the spin-off series, "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald", is another magical film entry into the self proclaimed "Wizarding World", but isn't as thoroughly enjoyable as "Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them". 

Unlike the predecessor, the follow-up is slow to start, drags on a little but is entertaining, even if it's not the likes of the 2016 film. David Yates director of the film, is no stranger to directing films in this saga. For this film, he ups the magic, and adds compelling set pieces and a riveting story, that may consist of wandering off abruptly with plot and story holes. This sequel will do anything and [succeedingly] cater to the fans of the beloved films. 

Resuming his magical duties as Newt Scamander once again is Eddie Redmayne. Redmayne gives another charming go at Scamander. Co-starring alongside him are returning cast members: Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol and playing the eponymous foe, Grindelwald, Johnny Depp. Viewers also see the likes of characters they've seen before and some that get a backstory. Playing a young Professor Dumbledore is Jude Law and playing the cursed woman who turns into a snake, [Voldemort's Nagini] is Claudia Kim. This cast is a magical one even if the performances get a little dry and boring at times. 

One of the best parts about this film, is not only its special effects, but a riveting story and adds more to character arcs and offers audiences an ending you did not see coming. You'll be begging for more once it ends. 

Giving the film a magical score once more, is film composer James Newton-Howard. Howard makes a lively and contemporary plethora of scores to accompany the film and all of its magic. [Howard]  also brings in a new spin on the iconic "Harry Potter" theme made famous by John Williams. 

This franchise has been known for its stunning special effects and CGI, this film adds even more stunning and creative creatures that fit right into the zest of any installments in the franchise. This film boasts its creativity and special effects constantly, which audiences will enjoy. 

Creating magic, one filmmaker at a time. This film is delightful in its presentation and succeeds in offering more to audiences as far as character development goes. Despite the lack of a consistent wow factor, and a slow start, this film is another magical achievement in the "Wizarding World" even if it doesn't quite make the mark that the other films in the saga had made. 

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. 

Rate: B- 

Director: David Yates 

Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Johnny Depp, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol

MPAA Rating: PG-13-(for sequences of fantasy action)

Runtime: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

Synopsis: In an effort to thwart Grindelwald's plans of raising pure-blood wizards to rule over all non-magical beings, Albus Dumbledore enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help, unaware of the dangers that lie ahead. Lines are drawn as love and loyalty are tested, even among the truest friends and family, in an increasingly divided wizarding world.

Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

One of the most prolific singers of all time and the frontman of Queen, Freddie Mercury, gets a highly anticipated film. While watching this film, you feel as if you are at one of the many concerts. The overall excitement and heart this film has is astounding. This film gives audiences an inside look at the upbringing one of rocks most flamboyant singers of all time. One of the most iconic rock bands of all time gets the film treatment it so long deserved.

Is there anyone who could possibly resemble the iconic singer in such a way? Not only does Rami Malek (Mr. Robot) resemble the late singer, he plays him in an unbelievable way. Malek puts all into this take on as Queen's leading man. Not only does Malek look like the iconic singer, but the rest of the cast resemble their real-life counterparts.

X-Men director Bryan Singer helms this biopic. Singer crafts an amazing film with depth and realness that make this film resonate with those who grew up with the sounds of Queen and those who didn't. Singer has made one of his best films to-date. The utter flashiness of the film is a sight to see and is one hell of a ride.

Though this film doesn't have a score, it has the discography of the band instead. The film uses the bands hit songs in a way that is uniquely fit in the film and also gives viewers an inside look at the crafting of each iconic song.

Mercury was a very eccentric and undoubtedly fashionable man. This film shows audiences that very aspect of the singer, while also adding a comedic light to all of the film, which is successfully incorporated here.

This film not only delves into the early days of Queen, but also the life of leading man Freddie. He's considered to be a gay-icon for many people but also a person who couldn't give a damn what people thought of him. What's so inspiring about this film is the struggle of the band in their early days. They faced adversity head on and overcame that flawlessly. Seeing this portrayed in film is unique and empowering.

"We will. we will. rock you!" One of the most iconic bands of all time gets the film treatment long overdue. You will be rockin' out to the film as this isn't just a biographical film, but a concert film. Showcasing the roller coaster career and personal life of Freddie is one of the greatest parts of this film. So grab your tickets to this film, because you'll want to see just how amazing this band and leading man Freddie Mercury really are.

Photo courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox

Rate: A 

Director: Bryan Singer 

Starring: Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, Ben Hardy, Mike Myers, with Joseph Mazzello and Gwilym Lee

MPAA Rating: PG-13 -(for thematic elements,suggestive material, drug content and language) 

Runtime: 2 Hours & 15 Minutes 

Synopsis: Bohemian Rhapsody is a foot-stomping celebration of Queen, their music and their extraordinary lead singer Freddie Mercury, who defied stereotypes and shattered convention to become one of the most beloved entertainers on the planet. The film traces the meteoric rise of the band through their iconic songs and revolutionary sound, their near-implosion as Mercury's lifestyle spirals out of control, and their triumphant reunion on the eve of Live Aid, where Mercury, facing a life-threatening illness, leads the band in one of the greatest performances in the history of rock music. In the process, cementing the legacy of a band that were always more like a family, and who continue to inspire outsiders, dreamers and music lovers to this day.