‘Fantastic Beasts’ Sequel to Begin Filming in August

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them was met with overwhelming success at the box office in November. Many fans were left with a deep satisfaction, perhaps a sense of relief, and most overwhelmingly an insatiable (for now) hunger for more. The sequel to Fantastic Beasts is slated to release in 2018, and Warner Bros. is preparing to dive back into the case and begin production. MinaLima recently revealed to us that they had started work on the second film, and according to Heroic Hollywood, filming will begin in August 2017.

Very little is known about the second film in this five part series. It is assumed that the plot will revolve largely around Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) and the First Wizarding War, however Newt Scamander’s role in this story remains to be seen. Not even actors in the film know much about the plot yet, as revealed by Zoe Kravitz (portraying Leta Lestrange) in a recent interview with Variety.

After confirming that she has yet to read the script, Kravitz discussed her audition process for Fantastic Beasts and revealed how excited she is to meet J.K. Rowling:

“What was it like meeting J.K. Rowling?
I haven’t met her yet. I’ve only heard things about her through Eddie and David [Yates, the director]. I know she was involved in my casting. After my screen test, they were waiting for her to watch it and get her approval. It’s cool to see how hands on she is on these projects. I can’t wait to meet her.

Was it a long audition process?
It wasn’t too long. I sent in an audition tape, and went in again into a casting office in L.A. and worked with a dialect coach. I think they were shooting already; I went there [to London] and worked with Eddie. I was nervous, especially doing a British accent in front of these English people. They were very welcoming. I think that helped me feel confident enough.”

David Yates, director of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, has said that the upcoming movie will be set in Paris, although it is unknown whether or not it will be filmed on location. Before filming the first Fantastic Beasts movie, plans to film on location were scratched and a massive 1920s New York set was built at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios. Perhaps another incredible set is in the works… Stay tuned for updates on the Fantastic Beasts sequel!

Read the full report and interview with Zoe Kravitz – who speaks more about her role in Gemini and American politics over at Variety.