Universal`s kid-friendly caper 'The Bad Guys' pulled off a heist for the ages, capturing the No. 1 spot at the domestic box office.

 
The animated comedy has collected $24 million from 4,009 North American theaters in its debut, enough to take the crown from "Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore." In its second weekend of release, the latest chapter in the "Harry Potter" prequel series plummeted to third place with $14 million, a troubling sign for the Warner Bros.` Wizarding film franchise. 
 
"The Bad Guys" may have towered over the competition, but it was not the only newcomer to movie theater marquees. "The Northman," a blood-soaked Viking epic from director Robert Eggers, and "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent," a meta comedy in which Nicolas Cage plays a fictionalized version of himself, opened in theaters nationwide to varying results. With three original movies in wide release, this weekend indicates that Hollywood does, indeed, still have new ideas -- but audiences aren`t always willing to make the trek to watch them. 
 
"The Bad Guys" carries a $70 million price tag, so although the Dreamworks Animation film has topped the box office, it may have to claw its way to profitability in its theatrical run. The international box office will be critical to getting into the black. Already, the movie has grossed $63 million overseas, bringing its global tally to $87.1 million. It helps that in addition to strong reviews, audiences appear to be high on the film, which secured an "A" CinemaScore from ticket buyers. Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Anthony Ramos, Craig Robinson and Awkwafina lead the voice cast of "The Bad Guys," which follows a crackerjack crew of animal outlaws as they attempt their most challenging con yet -- becoming model citizens. 
 
"The Northman" opened in fourth place, generating $12 million from 3,865 locations. That`s a great result for an arthouse film, but alas, "The Northman" does not carry the budget of an arthouse film. The movie reportedly cost $90 million, though sources close to the production say the final number was closer to $70 million after factoring in tax incentives. And Focus Features, who split the cost with New Regency, did not skimp on promotional efforts. "The Northman" has posters with stars Alexander Skarsg?rd, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy, Ethan Hawke, Bj?rk and Willem Dafoe plastered in Times Square. 
 
"Reviews are excellent, but with a budget of around $75 million, 'The Northman'&nbsp;will struggle to recover costs," said David A. Gross, who runs the movie consulting firm Franchise Entertainment Research. 
 
"The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent," from Lionsgate, took the No. 5 spot with $7.1 million, a wobbly start given its reported $30 million budget. Directed by Tom Gormican, the wacky buddy comedy of sorts follows Cage, whose star is declining as a billionaire super fan (played by Pedro Pascal) offers him $1 million to attend a birthday party in the Maldives. When events take a turn, Cage teams up with the CIA and channels his most beloved movie characters to save his family from his biggest fan, who may be a dangerous arms dealer. 
 
Despite stacked competition, Paramount`s family-friendly sequel "Sonic the Hedgehog 2" sped past "Fantastic Beasts 3" and others to land in second place with $15.2 million from 3,809 venues. After three weeks in theaters, the "Sonic" follow-up has generated a mighty $145.8 million. The film is less than $3 million away from surpassing its predecessor`s $148 million pre-pandemic domestic box office total, though 2020`s "Sonic the Hedgehog" likely would have enjoyed a longer run on the big screen without COVID-19 spoiling those plans.

Universal`s kid-friendly caper 'The Bad Guys' pulled off a heist for the ages, capturing the No. 1 spot at the domestic box office. The animated comedy has collected $24 million from 4,009 North American theaters in its debut, enough to take the crown from "Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore.

Universal`s kid-friendly caper 'The Bad Guys' pulled off a heist for the ages, capturing the No. 1 spot at the domestic box office. The animated comedy has collected $24 million from 4,009 North American theaters in its debut, enough to take the crown from "Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore." In its second weekend of release, the latest chapter in the "Harry Potter" prequel series plummeted to third place with $14 million, a troubling sign for the Warner Bros.` Wizarding film franchise. "The Bad Guys" may have towered over the competition, but it was not the only newcomer to movie theater marquees. "The Northman," a blood-soaked Viking epic from director Robert Eggers, and "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent," a meta comedy in which Nicolas Cage plays a fictionalized version of himself, opened in theaters nationwide to varying results. With three original movies in wide release, this weekend indicates that Hollywood does, indeed, still have new ideas -- but audiences aren`t always willing to make the trek to watch them. "The Bad Guys" carries a $70 million price tag, so although the Dreamworks Animation film has topped the box office, it may have to claw its way to profitability in its theatrical run. The international box office will be critical to getting into the black. Already, the movie has grossed $63 million overseas, bringing its global tally to $87.1 million. It helps that in addition to strong reviews, audiences appear to be high on the film, which secured an "A" CinemaScore from ticket buyers. Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Anthony Ramos, Craig Robinson and Awkwafina lead the voice cast of "The Bad Guys," which follows a crackerjack crew of animal outlaws as they attempt their most challenging con yet -- becoming model citizens. "The Northman" opened in fourth place, generating $12 million from 3,865 locations. That`s a great result for an arthouse film, but alas, "The Northman" does not carry the budget of an arthouse film. The movie reportedly cost $90 million, though sources close to the production say the final number was closer to $70 million after factoring in tax incentives. And Focus Features, who split the cost with New Regency, did not skimp on promotional efforts. "The Northman" has posters with stars Alexander Skarsg?rd, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy, Ethan Hawke, Bj?rk and Willem Dafoe plastered in Times Square. "Reviews are excellent, but with a budget of around $75 million, 'The Northman' will struggle to recover costs," said David A. Gross, who runs the movie consulting firm Franchise Entertainment Research. "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent," from Lionsgate, took the No. 5 spot with $7.1 million, a wobbly start given its reported $30 million budget. Directed by Tom Gormican, the wacky buddy comedy of sorts follows Cage, whose star is declining as a billionaire super fan (played by Pedro Pascal) offers him $1 million to attend a birthday party in the Maldives. When events take a turn, Cage teams up with the CIA and channels his most beloved movie characters to save his family from his biggest fan, who may be a dangerous arms dealer. Despite stacked competition, Paramount`s family-friendly sequel "Sonic the Hedgehog 2" sped past "Fantastic Beasts 3" and others to land in second place with $15.2 million from 3,809 venues. After three weeks in theaters, the "Sonic" follow-up has generated a mighty $145.8 million. The film is less than $3 million away from surpassing its predecessor`s $148 million pre-pandemic domestic box office total, though 2020`s "Sonic the Hedgehog" likely would have enjoyed a longer run on the big screen without COVID-19 spoiling those plans.

Box Office: 'The Bad Guys' topples 'Fantastic Beasts 3' with $24 million debut

'Dasvi' to 'Fantastic Beasts 3': What to watch on theatres/OTT this weekend

First look of Mads Mikkelsen as Gellert Grindlewald is here! 
 
Mikkelsen stepped into the villainous role previously played by Johnny Depp. Mikkelsen took the role from Depp, who played the iconic character for the past two films. Depp was asked to resign after the 57-year-old actor lost his libel suit against a British tabloid, who called him a "wife beater," referring to Amber Heard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-benedict-cumberbatch-starrer-the-power-of-the-dog-picks-up-best-film-at-new-york-film-critics-436604" hreflang="en">Benedict Cumberbatch starrer 'The Power of the Dog' picks up Best Film at New York Film Critics</a> 
 
Recently, makers have dropped the first look of the forthcoming 'Fantastic Beasts: The Secret of Dumbledore'. 
 
"The world as we know it is coming undone," says Jude Law's Albus Dumbledore in the short teaser. "Things that seem unimaginable today will seem inevitable tomorrow. Should you agree to do what I ask, you'll have to trust me, even when every instinct tells you not to." 
 
Ezra Miller will appear as Credence/Aurelius Dumbledore, Callum Turner as Newt's brother Theseus, and Jessica Williams as Ilvermorny professor Eulalie 'Lally' Hicks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-spider-man-no-way-home-advance-ticket-sales-creates-history-436597" hreflang="en">Spider Man No Way Home advance ticket sales creates history</a> 
 
The movie is helmed by David Yates, who previously directed the final four 'Harry Potter' films and the first two 'Fantastic Beasts' films. 
&nbsp; 
The third instalment in the Harry Potter prequel series is set to premiere in April 2022.

First look of Mads Mikkelsen as Gellert Grindlewald is here! Mikkelsen stepped into the villainous role previously played by Johnny Depp. Mikkelsen took the role from Depp, who played the iconic character for the past two films.

First look of Mads Mikkelsen as Gellert Grindlewald is here! Mikkelsen stepped into the villainous role previously played by Johnny Depp. Mikkelsen took the role from Depp, who played the iconic character for the past two films. Depp was asked to resign after the 57-year-old actor lost his libel suit against a British tabloid, who called him a "wife beater," referring to Amber Heard. Benedict Cumberbatch starrer 'The Power of the Dog' picks up Best Film at New York Film Critics Recently, makers have dropped the first look of the forthcoming 'Fantastic Beasts: The Secret of Dumbledore'. "The world as we know it is coming undone," says Jude Law's Albus Dumbledore in the short teaser. "Things that seem unimaginable today will seem inevitable tomorrow. Should you agree to do what I ask, you'll have to trust me, even when every instinct tells you not to." Ezra Miller will appear as Credence/Aurelius Dumbledore, Callum Turner as Newt's brother Theseus, and Jessica Williams as Ilvermorny professor Eulalie 'Lally' Hicks. Spider Man No Way Home advance ticket sales creates history The movie is helmed by David Yates, who previously directed the final four 'Harry Potter' films and the first two 'Fantastic Beasts' films. The third instalment in the Harry Potter prequel series is set to premiere in April 2022.

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore: Mads Mikkelsen first look as Gellert Grindelwald is here

JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ latest spinoff film released its title and release date.&nbsp;

The film will be called ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’.&nbsp;

Based on the life of one of the most important characters in the Harry Potter franchise, Dumbledore, the film’s title has raked a unique reaction from internet users. Many joked&nbsp;that the film will show&nbsp;Dumbeldore as gay and the film will reveal the&nbsp;secret of his sexuality.&nbsp;

There was then an onslaught of gay jokes and rumours about the titular wizard and Hogwarts headmaster. The topic for this speculation is rooted in JK Rowling’s previous statements that some say she made to sound ‘woke’. Weeks after the announcement of her Harry Potter book in 2007, the author had said that Dumbledore was gay, despite the books themselves offering no clues as to the wizard’s sexuality. Furthermore, she suggested that Dumbledore once had a homosexual relationship with Gellert Grindlewald, who features in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ movies. However, none of the films have mentioned this either.

JK Rowling was criticised for inserting a ‘woke’ subtext to her stories when in fact they had no such mention in the books. She had also said that there was at least one Jewish wizard at Hogwarts and that Hermoine may have been black despite the author describing her as a white girl in her books.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowling-busts-myth-around-the-origin-of-the-harry-potter-series-and-its-characters-301171">JK Rowling busts myth around the origin of the Harry Potter series and its characters</a>

The Harry Potter author is now not in good books of the trans community too after she opposed gender-neutral languages arguing that it “erases” the concept of sex and thus womanhood. She has, since then, got <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jk-rowlings-handprint-vandalised-with-red-paint-amid-transphobic-row-312886">death threats from some trans activists</a> and faced backlash on the internet by many of her fans.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the new spinoff film ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’ will release on April 15, 2022. The franchise of films has been adapted from a guidebook on the magical creatures of Harry Potter’s world. This was released in 2001 and served as prequels to the main Harry Potter story.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-new-jk-rowling-childrens-book-coming-in-october-377347">Also Read:&nbsp;New JK Rowling children's book coming in October</a>

JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ latest spinoff film released its title and release date. The film will be called ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’. Based on the life of one of the most important characters in the Harry Potter franchise, Dumbledore, the film’s title has raked a unique reaction from internet users.

JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ latest spinoff film released its title and release date. The film will be called ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’. Based on the life of one of the most important characters in the Harry Potter franchise, Dumbledore, the film’s title has raked a unique reaction from internet users. Many joked that the film will show Dumbeldore as gay and the film will reveal the secret of his sexuality. There was then an onslaught of gay jokes and rumours about the titular wizard and Hogwarts headmaster. The topic for this speculation is rooted in JK Rowling’s previous statements that some say she made to sound ‘woke’. Weeks after the announcement of her Harry Potter book in 2007, the author had said that Dumbledore was gay, despite the books themselves offering no clues as to the wizard’s sexuality. Furthermore, she suggested that Dumbledore once had a homosexual relationship with Gellert Grindlewald, who features in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ movies. However, none of the films have mentioned this either. JK Rowling was criticised for inserting a ‘woke’ subtext to her stories when in fact they had no such mention in the books. She had also said that there was at least one Jewish wizard at Hogwarts and that Hermoine may have been black despite the author describing her as a white girl in her books. JK Rowling busts myth around the origin of the Harry Potter series and its characters The Harry Potter author is now not in good books of the trans community too after she opposed gender-neutral languages arguing that it “erases” the concept of sex and thus womanhood. She has, since then, got death threats from some trans activists and faced backlash on the internet by many of her fans. Meanwhile, the new spinoff film ‘Fantastic Beasts 3: The Secrets of Dumbledore’ will release on April 15, 2022. The franchise of films has been adapted from a guidebook on the magical creatures of Harry Potter’s world. This was released in 2001 and served as prequels to the main Harry Potter story. Also Read: New JK Rowling children's book coming in October

Harry Potter spinoff 'Fantastic Beasts 3' title starts a thread on gay jokes, targets JK Rowling

Actor Mads Mikkelsen, who has replaced Johnny Depp in upcoming film 'Fantastic Beasts' has said that he wished he could have spoke to Depp about playing dark wizard Grindelwald.&nbsp; 
 
Depp played the character in the previous two films of the popular franchise and was replaced in the third part after he lost a major libel suit relating to domestic abuse allegations by his former wife Amber Heard against a UK newspaper last November.&nbsp; 
 
In a recent interview Mikkelsen spoke about the film and stepping into Depp's shoes. The Danish star steered away from commenting on whether Depp losing the role was fair or not but mentioned that he would have loved to talk to the American actor about the character.&nbsp; 
 
"I mean, obviously, they were going to do the film, and obviously he was not involved any more. But I didn't have a dog in that fight. And I don't know what happened (in his private life), and I don't know if it was fair, him losing the job, but I just knew that the show was going on, and I would've loved to have talked to him about it if I had the chance, but I just don't know him in that sense," Mikkelsen, 55, told The Times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-johnny-depp-to-get-full-salary-for-fantastic-beasts-3-despite-being-fired--342136">Johnny Depp to get full salary for 'Fantastic Beasts 3' despite being fired &nbsp;</a> 
 
Rumours of Mikkelsen playing Grindelwald started floating soon after it was reported that Depp had been asked to leave the project. A week after the reports surfaced online, Warner Bros Pictures confirmed his casting. 
 
Mikkelsen revealed the makers were in a 'hurry' to get the project going. 
 
"But they called me and they were obviously in a hurry, and I loved the script and so said yes. And I know it was controversial for many people, but that's just the way it plays out once in a while," he added. 
 
The actor reiterated that he wants to add his own touch to the character of Grindelwald while retaining a few links with how Depp played the role. 
 
"I didn't want to copy what Johnny had done. I think he's a masterful actor, so copying him would've been creative suicide," he said.

 
"I had to figure out something that was definitely my own, and yet also act as a bridge to what he had done. My take is different, and the look is a little different, but we'll have to wait for the film's release (next year) to find out," he added. 
 
Mikkelsen is currently working on 'Indian Jones 5'. Fronted by Hollywood veteran Harrison Ford, the fifth film in the popular action adventure franchise is set to be released in the summer of 2022.&nbsp;

'Fantastic Beasts' features Eddie Redmayne in the lead role and is based on JK Rowling's writing. It is part of the 'Harry Potter' universe.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-vanessa-paradis-to-amber-heard-a-look-at-johnny-depps-dating-history-312251">From Vanessa Paradis to Amber Heard: A look at Johnny Depp's dating history</a>

Actor Mads Mikkelsen, who has replaced Johnny Depp in upcoming film 'Fantastic Beasts' has said that he wished he could have spoke to Depp about playing dark wizard Grindelwald.

Actor Mads Mikkelsen, who has replaced Johnny Depp in upcoming film 'Fantastic Beasts' has said that he wished he could have spoke to Depp about playing dark wizard Grindelwald. Depp played the character in the previous two films of the popular franchise and was replaced in the third part after he lost a major libel suit relating to domestic abuse allegations by his former wife Amber Heard against a UK newspaper last November. In a recent interview Mikkelsen spoke about the film and stepping into Depp's shoes. The Danish star steered away from commenting on whether Depp losing the role was fair or not but mentioned that he would have loved to talk to the American actor about the character. "I mean, obviously, they were going to do the film, and obviously he was not involved any more. But I didn't have a dog in that fight. And I don't know what happened (in his private life), and I don't know if it was fair, him losing the job, but I just knew that the show was going on, and I would've loved to have talked to him about it if I had the chance, but I just don't know him in that sense," Mikkelsen, 55, told The Times. Johnny Depp to get full salary for 'Fantastic Beasts 3' despite being fired Rumours of Mikkelsen playing Grindelwald started floating soon after it was reported that Depp had been asked to leave the project. A week after the reports surfaced online, Warner Bros Pictures confirmed his casting. Mikkelsen revealed the makers were in a 'hurry' to get the project going. "But they called me and they were obviously in a hurry, and I loved the script and so said yes. And I know it was controversial for many people, but that's just the way it plays out once in a while," he added. The actor reiterated that he wants to add his own touch to the character of Grindelwald while retaining a few links with how Depp played the role. "I didn't want to copy what Johnny had done. I think he's a masterful actor, so copying him would've been creative suicide," he said. "I had to figure out something that was definitely my own, and yet also act as a bridge to what he had done. My take is different, and the look is a little different, but we'll have to wait for the film's release (next year) to find out," he added. Mikkelsen is currently working on 'Indian Jones 5'. Fronted by Hollywood veteran Harrison Ford, the fifth film in the popular action adventure franchise is set to be released in the summer of 2022. 'Fantastic Beasts' features Eddie Redmayne in the lead role and is based on JK Rowling's writing. It is part of the 'Harry Potter' universe. From Vanessa Paradis to Amber Heard: A look at Johnny Depp's dating history

Mads Mikkelsen on replacing Johnny Depp in 'Fantastic Beasts': I would've loved to talk to him about the character

‘Fantastic Beasts’ star Kevin Guthrie has been sentenced to three years in prison for sexual assault.&nbsp; 
 
Kavin, who appeared&nbsp;as Abernathy in 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them' as well as its sequel, 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald', has been jailed for sexually assaulting a&nbsp;woman in Glasgow, Scotland apartment in 2017.&nbsp; 
 
As per reports in the BBC, the 33-year-old denied the charges, saying that he "helped" the woman after she became sick. However, the jury was told Guthrie's DNA was discovered inside the woman's underwear.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/friends-reunion-is-here-a-trip-down-the-memory-lane-with-25-iconic-quotes-from-the-hit-show-251006" hreflang="en">'Friends' reunion is here! A Trip Down The Memory Lane With 25 Iconic Quotes From The Hit Show</a> 
 
Reports say, Tom Hughes, the sheriff of the court, told Kevin that “the court must show that women can be protected from domestic sexual offenses. The offense you have been convicted of caused distress and consequences to the young woman involved in this case.” 
 
“She was unwell and thought her drink had been spiked elsewhere that night,” he went on. “The jury accepted that you committed these heinous crimes and the only appropriate sentence is imprisonment.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-free-guy-shang-chi-to-get-exclusive-theatrical-releases-in-move-to-revamp-box-office-385164" hreflang="en">'Free Guy', 'Shang-Chi' to get exclusive theatrical releases in move to revamp box office</a>

Kevin was also part of the 2020 Netflix sports drama 'The English Game' and Christopher Nolan’s Oscar-winning 'Dunkirk'.

‘Fantastic Beasts’ star Kevin Guthrie has been sentenced to three years in prison for sexual assault. Kavin, who appeared as Abernathy in 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them' as well as its sequel, 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald', has been jailed for sexually assaulting a woman in Glasgow, Scotland apartment in 2017.

‘Fantastic Beasts’ star Kevin Guthrie has been sentenced to three years in prison for sexual assault. Kavin, who appeared as Abernathy in 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them' as well as its sequel, 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald', has been jailed for sexually assaulting a woman in Glasgow, Scotland apartment in 2017. As per reports in the BBC, the 33-year-old denied the charges, saying that he "helped" the woman after she became sick. However, the jury was told Guthrie's DNA was discovered inside the woman's underwear. 'Friends' reunion is here! A Trip Down The Memory Lane With 25 Iconic Quotes From The Hit Show Reports say, Tom Hughes, the sheriff of the court, told Kevin that “the court must show that women can be protected from domestic sexual offenses. The offense you have been convicted of caused distress and consequences to the young woman involved in this case.” “She was unwell and thought her drink had been spiked elsewhere that night,” he went on. “The jury accepted that you committed these heinous crimes and the only appropriate sentence is imprisonment.” 'Free Guy', 'Shang-Chi' to get exclusive theatrical releases in move to revamp box office Kevin was also part of the 2020 Netflix sports drama 'The English Game' and Christopher Nolan’s Oscar-winning 'Dunkirk'.

'Fantastic Beasts' star Kevin Guthrie jailed for three years for sexual assault

The shoot for Warner Bros` `Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them 3` has come to an unexpected halt after an unspecified crew member tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. 
 
Out of an abundance of caution, `Fantastic Beasts 3` paused production and will be back up in accordance with safety guidelines.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/mads-mikkelsen-opens-up-about-replacing-johnny-depp-in-fantastic-beasts-3-347233" hreflang="en">Mads Mikkelsen opens up about replacing Johnny Depp in 'Fantastic Beasts 3'</a> 
 
A Warner Bros. spokesperson told Variety "A team member from Fantastic Beasts 3 has tested positive for COVID-19."He further added, "The diagnosis was confirmed as a result of required and ongoing testing that all production employees receive, and the team member is currently in isolation." 
 
It was due to begin shooting in March 2020, but the first wave of the pandemic pushed shooting back to September. Based on characters created by J.K. Rowling, the `Harry Potter` spinoff was in production at the Warner Bros. studio facility in Leavesden, U.K. 
 
It is directed by David Yates, who also directed the first two instalments of the franchise and several "Harry Potter" films, and stars Eddie Redmayne and Jude Law. 
 
As per Variety, the `Fantastic Beasts` franchise is a money-spinner for Warner Bros. The first film, `Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them` (2016), grossed 814 million dollars worldwide, while the second, `Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald` (2018), collected 655 million dollars. The movie is expected to release on July 15, 2022.&nbsp;

The shoot for Warner Bros` `Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them 3` has come to an unexpected halt after an unspecified crew member tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.

The shoot for Warner Bros` `Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them 3` has come to an unexpected halt after an unspecified crew member tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Out of an abundance of caution, `Fantastic Beasts 3` paused production and will be back up in accordance with safety guidelines. Mads Mikkelsen opens up about replacing Johnny Depp in 'Fantastic Beasts 3' A Warner Bros. spokesperson told Variety "A team member from Fantastic Beasts 3 has tested positive for COVID-19."He further added, "The diagnosis was confirmed as a result of required and ongoing testing that all production employees receive, and the team member is currently in isolation." It was due to begin shooting in March 2020, but the first wave of the pandemic pushed shooting back to September. Based on characters created by J.K. Rowling, the `Harry Potter` spinoff was in production at the Warner Bros. studio facility in Leavesden, U.K. It is directed by David Yates, who also directed the first two instalments of the franchise and several "Harry Potter" films, and stars Eddie Redmayne and Jude Law. As per Variety, the `Fantastic Beasts` franchise is a money-spinner for Warner Bros. The first film, `Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them` (2016), grossed 814 million dollars worldwide, while the second, `Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald` (2018), collected 655 million dollars. The movie is expected to release on July 15, 2022.

'Fantastic Beasts 3' shoot suspends after crew member tests Covid-19 positive

It's been a month since actor Mads Mikkelsen was named as Johnny Depp's replacement in the 'Fantastic Beasts' series. Depp, who was ousted from the third film after he lost the libel case against a UK tabloid which had called him a wife beater, had famously played Grindelwald in the fantasy series based on JK Rowling's books.&nbsp; 
 
Mikkelsen, 55, spoke to Associated Press about the transition and admitted he had not spoken to Depp, 57, about the portraying the wizard villain.&nbsp; 
 
"No, I don’t know him. I met him once," Mikkelsen said. "I wish I had his phone number but unfortunately, that’s not the case." 
 
"The only approach I can have is to connect the bridge of what he did and what I'm going to do and we’ll see what it is," Mikkelsen added. 
 
In an interview to Entertainmnet Weekly a few weeks back, Mikkelsen has opened up about the differences between his and Depp's portrayals of Grindelwald. 
 
"Well it's going to be me, so that's a difference," he joked and added, "No, this is the tricky part. We're still working it out. There has to be a bridge between what Johnny did and what I'm going to do. And at the same time, I also have to make it my own." 
 
Mikkelsen&nbsp;said he was hoping to make the two versions of the character connect. "We have to find a few links (to the previous version of the character] and some bridges so it doesn't completely detach from what he's already masterfully achieved," Mikkelsen added.&nbsp; 
 
Mikkelsen will be the third actor to portray the wizard in the franchise. In the first installment, Colin Farrell played a disguised version of the villain while Depp appeared in the part in a small portion at the end of the first film. He had a full fledged role in the second film.&nbsp;

It's been a month since actor Mads Mikkelsen was named as Johnny Depp's replacement in the 'Fantastic Beasts' series. Depp, who was ousted from the third film after he lost the libel case against a UK tabloid which had called him a wife beater, had famously played Grindelwald in the fantasy series based on JK Rowling's books.

It's been a month since actor Mads Mikkelsen was named as Johnny Depp's replacement in the 'Fantastic Beasts' series. Depp, who was ousted from the third film after he lost the libel case against a UK tabloid which had called him a wife beater, had famously played Grindelwald in the fantasy series based on JK Rowling's books. Mikkelsen, 55, spoke to Associated Press about the transition and admitted he had not spoken to Depp, 57, about the portraying the wizard villain. "No, I don’t know him. I met him once," Mikkelsen said. "I wish I had his phone number but unfortunately, that’s not the case." "The only approach I can have is to connect the bridge of what he did and what I'm going to do and we’ll see what it is," Mikkelsen added. In an interview to Entertainmnet Weekly a few weeks back, Mikkelsen has opened up about the differences between his and Depp's portrayals of Grindelwald. "Well it's going to be me, so that's a difference," he joked and added, "No, this is the tricky part. We're still working it out. There has to be a bridge between what Johnny did and what I'm going to do. And at the same time, I also have to make it my own." Mikkelsen said he was hoping to make the two versions of the character connect. "We have to find a few links (to the previous version of the character] and some bridges so it doesn't completely detach from what he's already masterfully achieved," Mikkelsen added. Mikkelsen will be the third actor to portray the wizard in the franchise. In the first installment, Colin Farrell played a disguised version of the villain while Depp appeared in the part in a small portion at the end of the first film. He had a full fledged role in the second film.

Mads Mikkelsen did not speak to Johnny Depp about playing Grindelwald in 'Fantastic Beasts' series 

It was a "shocker" of a moment says Danish star Mads Mikkelsen after he was asked to step in to play the dark wizard Gellert Grindlewald following Johnny Depp's exit from 'Fantastic Beasts 3'. 
 
The actor, known for films 'Casino Royale'&nbsp;and 'Doctor Strange', and playing the titular villain in the series 'Hannibal', has broken his silence on taking up the role from Depp a week after the studio Warner Bros Pictures confirmed his casting. 
 
Depp, who had played Grindlewald in the first two installments of the fantasy film series, exited the third chapter after losing a major libel suit relating to abuse allegations by former wife, actor Amber Heard against a UK newspaper last month. 
 
The challenge, Mikkelsen said, is to add his own touch to the character of Grindlewald while retaining "a few links" with how Depp played the role. "This is the tricky part. We're still working it out. There has to be a bridge between what Johnny did and what I'm going to do. And at the same time, I also have to make it my own. "But also we have to find a few links (to the previous version of the character) and some bridges so it doesn't completely detach from what he's already masterfully achieved," the 55-year-old actor told Entertainment Weekly. 
 
Mikkelsen also said while landing this job opportunity was "obviously super interesting and nice", it was also sad that the casting came in the aftermath of a very public legal dispute. "It's also a shocker that it came after what happened, which is just super sad. I wish both of them the best. These are sad circumstances. I hope both of them will be back in the saddle again really soon," he added. "Fantastic Beasts 3", the third film spin-off in JK Rowling's Harry Potter universe is currently in production in the UK. 
 
The shooting on the film had shut down in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. David Yates is directing the film from a screenplay by Rowling and Steve Kloves. Rowling, Kloves, David Heyman, and Lionel Wigram are producing. Depp first played Grindelwald in 2016's "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them". 
 
He reprised the part in 2018's "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald". Featuring franchise stars Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Jude Law, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol and Ezra Miller, "Fantastic Beasts 3" is scheduled to be released on July 15, 2022.

It was a "shocker" of a moment says Danish star Mads Mikkelsen after he was asked to step in to play the dark wizard Gellert Grindlewald following Johnny Depp's exit from 'Fantastic Beasts 3'.

It was a "shocker" of a moment says Danish star Mads Mikkelsen after he was asked to step in to play the dark wizard Gellert Grindlewald following Johnny Depp's exit from 'Fantastic Beasts 3'. The actor, known for films 'Casino Royale' and 'Doctor Strange', and playing the titular villain in the series 'Hannibal', has broken his silence on taking up the role from Depp a week after the studio Warner Bros Pictures confirmed his casting. Depp, who had played Grindlewald in the first two installments of the fantasy film series, exited the third chapter after losing a major libel suit relating to abuse allegations by former wife, actor Amber Heard against a UK newspaper last month. The challenge, Mikkelsen said, is to add his own touch to the character of Grindlewald while retaining "a few links" with how Depp played the role. "This is the tricky part. We're still working it out. There has to be a bridge between what Johnny did and what I'm going to do. And at the same time, I also have to make it my own. "But also we have to find a few links (to the previous version of the character) and some bridges so it doesn't completely detach from what he's already masterfully achieved," the 55-year-old actor told Entertainment Weekly. Mikkelsen also said while landing this job opportunity was "obviously super interesting and nice", it was also sad that the casting came in the aftermath of a very public legal dispute. "It's also a shocker that it came after what happened, which is just super sad. I wish both of them the best. These are sad circumstances. I hope both of them will be back in the saddle again really soon," he added. "Fantastic Beasts 3", the third film spin-off in JK Rowling's Harry Potter universe is currently in production in the UK. The shooting on the film had shut down in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. David Yates is directing the film from a screenplay by Rowling and Steve Kloves. Rowling, Kloves, David Heyman, and Lionel Wigram are producing. Depp first played Grindelwald in 2016's "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them". He reprised the part in 2018's "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald". Featuring franchise stars Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Jude Law, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol and Ezra Miller, "Fantastic Beasts 3" is scheduled to be released on July 15, 2022.

Mads Mikkelsen opens up about replacing Johnny Depp in 'Fantastic Beasts 3'

After weeks of speculations, Warner Bros has finally zeroed in on an actor who would take up the role of evil wizard Gellert Grindelwald in 'Fantastic Beasts 3' post Johnny Depp's exit. Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen has been confirmed to play the character.&nbsp; 
 
Mikkelsen's name was being speculated ever since the studio asked Depp to leave the film post losing a libel case in Britain. 
 
Mikkelsen, 55, who is known for his role as serial killer Hannibal Lecter in the US television series 'Hannibal,' will play the evil wizard in the spinoff movie from 'Harry Potter' author JK Rowling. 
 
Depp was forced to exit the role earlier this month after losing a libel case in Britain against a tabloid newspaper that branded him a "wife beater." The three-week trial in July heard evidence from Depp and his former wife Amber Heard about a tempestuous marriage marked by violence on both sides and of heavy drinking by Depp. 
 
Depp, who had earlier begun production on the third 'Fantastic Beasts' movie in London, said he was asked to leave by Warner Bros. 
Mikkelsen also played roles in action movies 'Doctor Strange' and 'Casino Royale' as well as taking roles in Danish dramas such as 'The Hunnt' and 'A Royal Affair.' 
 
The 'Fantastic Beasts' movies, based on the magical adventures of Newt Scamander, are set some 60 years before the 'Harry Potter' films but feature several of the same key characters when they were younger. Eddie Redmayne plays Scamander in the series.&nbsp; 
 
The third as yet untitled movie in the series is set for release in July 2022. 
&nbsp;

After weeks of speculations, Warner Bros has finally zeroed in on an actor who would take up the role of evil wizard Gellert Grindelwald in 'Fantastic Beasts 3' post Johnny Depp's exit.

After weeks of speculations, Warner Bros has finally zeroed in on an actor who would take up the role of evil wizard Gellert Grindelwald in 'Fantastic Beasts 3' post Johnny Depp's exit. Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen has been confirmed to play the character. Mikkelsen's name was being speculated ever since the studio asked Depp to leave the film post losing a libel case in Britain. Mikkelsen, 55, who is known for his role as serial killer Hannibal Lecter in the US television series 'Hannibal,' will play the evil wizard in the spinoff movie from 'Harry Potter' author JK Rowling. Depp was forced to exit the role earlier this month after losing a libel case in Britain against a tabloid newspaper that branded him a "wife beater." The three-week trial in July heard evidence from Depp and his former wife Amber Heard about a tempestuous marriage marked by violence on both sides and of heavy drinking by Depp. Depp, who had earlier begun production on the third 'Fantastic Beasts' movie in London, said he was asked to leave by Warner Bros. Mikkelsen also played roles in action movies 'Doctor Strange' and 'Casino Royale' as well as taking roles in Danish dramas such as 'The Hunnt' and 'A Royal Affair.' The 'Fantastic Beasts' movies, based on the magical adventures of Newt Scamander, are set some 60 years before the 'Harry Potter' films but feature several of the same key characters when they were younger. Eddie Redmayne plays Scamander in the series. The third as yet untitled movie in the series is set for release in July 2022.

Confirmed! This actor will replace Johnny Depp in 'Fantastic Beasts 3'

Johnny Depp may not be a part of the 'Fantastic Beasts'franchise anymore but reports suggest that the Hollywood actor would be paid almost $10 million for filming one scene of the third part of the film.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/johnny-depp-dropped-from-fantastic-beasts-after-losing-wife-beater-case-341322">Depp was ousted last week by Warner Bros </a>after the actor lost the UK libel case against a tabloid which had called him a 'wife-beater'.&nbsp; 
 
While the studio has ousted him from the film owing to the allegations of domestic violence levied upon him, it will still pay the actor his full salary. The film's production began in UK from September 20 onwards and Depp had shot for one scene only.&nbsp; 
 
Depp had played Gellert Grindelwald in the first two parts of the franchise which is based on JK Rowling's series. 
 
Due to the ongoing pandemic and multiple changes, the film's release has been pushed to July 2022. The film was earlier scheduled to release in November 2021.&nbsp; 
 
The studio is yet to announce who would replace Depp in the film which has Eddie Redmayne playing the lead role and Jude Law in a key role.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-factbox-johnny-depp-loses-wife-beater-libel-case-key-parts-of-the-judgment-339974">Factbox: Johnny Depp loses 'wife-beater' libel case: key parts of the judgment</a> 
 
According to reports, the decision was delayed as the studio wanted to wait till the court decision came through. Depp is also known for his portrayal of Jack Sparrow in hit series 'Pirates of the Caribbean'.&nbsp; 
 
The actor reportedly has a special provision in his contract called pay-to-play which entails him to get full salary regardless of what happens to the film- even it is not completed or he is replaced by another actor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-johnny-depp-down-but-not-entirely-out-after-losing-wife-beater-case-339980">Johnny Depp down but not entirely out after losing 'wife beater' case</a>

Johnny Depp may not be a part of the 'Fantastic Beasts'franchise anymore but reports suggest that the Hollywood actor would be paid almost $10 million for filming one scene of the third part of the film.

Johnny Depp may not be a part of the 'Fantastic Beasts'franchise anymore but reports suggest that the Hollywood actor would be paid almost $10 million for filming one scene of the third part of the film. Depp was ousted last week by Warner Bros after the actor lost the UK libel case against a tabloid which had called him a 'wife-beater'. While the studio has ousted him from the film owing to the allegations of domestic violence levied upon him, it will still pay the actor his full salary. The film's production began in UK from September 20 onwards and Depp had shot for one scene only. Depp had played Gellert Grindelwald in the first two parts of the franchise which is based on JK Rowling's series. Due to the ongoing pandemic and multiple changes, the film's release has been pushed to July 2022. The film was earlier scheduled to release in November 2021. The studio is yet to announce who would replace Depp in the film which has Eddie Redmayne playing the lead role and Jude Law in a key role. Factbox: Johnny Depp loses 'wife-beater' libel case: key parts of the judgment According to reports, the decision was delayed as the studio wanted to wait till the court decision came through. Depp is also known for his portrayal of Jack Sparrow in hit series 'Pirates of the Caribbean'. The actor reportedly has a special provision in his contract called pay-to-play which entails him to get full salary regardless of what happens to the film- even it is not completed or he is replaced by another actor. Johnny Depp down but not entirely out after losing 'wife beater' case

Johnny Depp to get full salary for 'Fantastic Beasts 3' despite being fired  

The filming of the third chapter of 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them', the Harry Potter prequel spin-off, has resumed with safety measures in place amid the coronavirus pandemic, series lead Eddie Redmayne confirmed. 
 
The actor, who plays Newt Scamander in the fantasy franchise based on JK Rowling's books, said the cast and crew have been shooting since "two weeks", getting used to the new normal. 
 
"It's interesting because we've started shooting now. We're two weeks in, and again, it's a whole new process. It's a whole new normal. Testing frequently, masks. 
 
"And I wondered, actually, whether the masks would affect creativity, in some ways. Maybe that was a bit ignorant, but I just thought, as humans, do we need interaction to spark from each other?" Redmayne told Cinema Blend. 
 
Despite working under a different process, the Oscar winner said, it is reassuring that "everyone is working at the top of their game". 
 
"You're always trying to make the best work possible, so I feel like it has been helpful in some ways," he added.

Warner Bros put the production on 'Fantastic Beasts 3' on hold in March due to the pandemic. 
 
Also starring Jude Law, Johnny Depp, Katherine Waterston and Dan Fogler, the film is still slated to be released on November 12, 2021.

The filming of the third chapter of 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them', the Harry Potter prequel spin-off, has resumed with safety measures in place amid the coronavirus pandemic, series lead Eddie Redmayne confirmed.

The filming of the third chapter of 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them', the Harry Potter prequel spin-off, has resumed with safety measures in place amid the coronavirus pandemic, series lead Eddie Redmayne confirmed. The actor, who plays Newt Scamander in the fantasy franchise based on JK Rowling's books, said the cast and crew have been shooting since "two weeks", getting used to the new normal. "It's interesting because we've started shooting now. We're two weeks in, and again, it's a whole new process. It's a whole new normal. Testing frequently, masks. "And I wondered, actually, whether the masks would affect creativity, in some ways. Maybe that was a bit ignorant, but I just thought, as humans, do we need interaction to spark from each other?" Redmayne told Cinema Blend. Despite working under a different process, the Oscar winner said, it is reassuring that "everyone is working at the top of their game". "You're always trying to make the best work possible, so I feel like it has been helpful in some ways," he added. Warner Bros put the production on 'Fantastic Beasts 3' on hold in March due to the pandemic. Also starring Jude Law, Johnny Depp, Katherine Waterston and Dan Fogler, the film is still slated to be released on November 12, 2021.

'Fantastic Beasts 3' resumes production amid COVID-19

fantastic-beasts-3

Fantastic Beasts 3, News on Fantastic Beasts 3, stories on Fantastic Beasts 3, articles on Fantastic Beasts 3, Fantastic Beasts 3 stories at Wion, Fantastic Beasts 3 news, Fantastic Beasts 3 latest news

fantastic beasts-3