Ranking the Fantastic Beasts Films by Their Soundtracks

The Fantastic Beasts trilogy, released between 2016 and 2022, broadened the magical universe well beyond the familiar corridors of Hogwarts. With James Newton Howard at the helm of the music, the series found a new sonic identity, following in the considerable footsteps of John Williams, whose original compositions set the tone for the entire franchise. The challenge was considerable: to create something both fresh and respectful of what had come before.

Even with a cast boasting Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, and Johnny Depp (later replaced by Mads Mikkelsen), the films required a score that could match the scale and ambition of their performances. Here, we take a look at how each soundtrack measures up, from the least memorable to the most enchanting.

Key Details of the Trilogy

Before delving into the rankings, it’s worth noting a few facts about the three instalments. All were directed by David Yates. The first, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, arrived in November 2016, earning a 7.2/10 on IMDb and a 74% Rotten Tomatoes score, with box office takings of $816.03 million. The second, The Crimes of Grindelwald, released in November 2018, saw ratings dip to 6.5/10 and 36%, with $655.75 million at the box office. The third, The Secrets of Dumbledore, premiered in April 2022, scoring 6.2/10 and 46%, and grossed $407.15 million.

The Secrets of Dumbledore: A Subdued Finale

Although The Secrets of Dumbledore comes in last, its soundtrack is by no means forgettable. Howard’s score, the lengthiest of the trilogy with 39 tracks, was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in late 2021. The music mirrors the film’s more sombre atmosphere, focusing on subtle motifs of politics, loyalty, and secrecy rather than grand magical flourishes.

Tracks such as

“We Can Free Each Other,” “Same Blood,”

and

“The Room We Require”

highlight a gentler approach. The bonus song

“Heaven”

, which was in the running for Best Original Song at the Oscars, brings a surprisingly personal note. However, the score lacks the instantly recognisable themes that made the first film’s music so memorable, instead reworking familiar ideas in a more understated fashion.

The Crimes of Grindelwald: Embracing Darkness

In second place is The Crimes of Grindelwald, where the music takes a distinctly darker turn. Released in 2018, the film moves away from the light-hearted curiosity of its predecessor, and the soundtrack follows suit almost immediately. Howard’s compositions here are weightier, with a palpable sense of tension running throughout.

Standout pieces include

“Leta’s Theme”

and

“Dumbledore,”

which anchor the film, while

“Spread the Word”

leans into a mood of unease and impending threat. This is not background music for a casual listen; it’s dense and, at times, rather intense. The score’s strength lies in its commitment to atmosphere, drawing the audience into a more complex and shadowy world, even when the film itself proved divisive among fans.

Where to Find Them: A Magical Debut

Taking the top spot is Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, and the choice is quite clear. The soundtrack is vibrant and full of life, perfectly capturing the sense of discovery that defined the film’s introduction to a new corner of the magical world. Released in 2016, the music is playful, inquisitive, and brimming with energy.

Tracks like

“Main Titles,” “Newt Says Goodbye to Tina,”

and

“The Demiguise and the Occamy”

encapsulate a blend of wonder and warmth. The themes for the various magical creatures are especially distinctive, each with its own character. Unlike the later scores, these melodies linger in the mind, easy to recall and hum long after the credits roll. It’s this memorability that secures its place at the top of the list.

Which soundtrack stands out for you? Share your thoughts below. All three films are currently available to stream on HBO Max.