The third “Fantastic Beasts” movie from Warner Bros. did not have a fantastic weekend here in the U.S.
“The Secrets of Dumbledore” made $43 million domestically. That sounds like a lot but the prior two “Beasts” films had opening weekends significantly higher. It may be time to call it a day on this franchise.
Abroad, however, people who don’t understand English but like a good wanding went to their theaters. The film has already made $110 million internationally. They really liked it in China once any reference to Dumbledore having once been in love with Grindewald was removed — $12 million!
Japan was also a big customer — over $8 million. I’m tempted to make a joke but will refrain. (It was a good joke, too. Call me.) And in the UK, where English is presumably spoken, over $7 million worth of tickets were sold.
Very talented “Beasts” star Eddie Redmayne, who already has an Oscar, just won an Olivier (like a Tony Award) for the revival of “Cabaret” in the West End. He just turned 40. He’s got awards and he’s loaded from these films. So now what? I don’t know, but this ship has sailed. Time to put away the wands. Maybe he can be the new Q or M or X in James Bond movies. (Actually he needs some good romcoms.)
