While Warner Bros.' expansion of the Harry Potter cinematic universe through its Fantastic Beasts prequel series may have hit a slight snag with the mixed reception to last year's The Crimes of Grindelwald, the studio intends to move forward with its plans for three more films.
As pre-production on the third Fantastic Beasts film enters its final stages to prepare for principal photography this spring, the studio has no plans to abandon filmmakers David Yates and J.K. Rowling's vision of five films in the series. The studio initially revealed its ambitious, multi-film plans while promoting the first prequel in the series in 2016.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them earned $814 million at the worldwide box office upon its theatrical release, bringing fans back to the Wizarding World, albeit decades before the events of the Harry Potter films. In comparison, The Crimes of Grindelwald only earned $653.8 million while facing a far more mixed critical reception.
While details on the upcoming sequel are currently under wraps, it's expected to be set primarily in Rio de Janeiro, with an increased emphasis on classic Harry Potter elements, including a more prominent role for the iconic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry.
Franchise veteran David Yates is attached to direct Fantastic Beasts 3, with Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling writing the script with Steve Kloves. The film stars Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogler, Ezra Miller and Jude Law. The release date for the film is set for Nov. 12, 2021.
(via Variety)