The fourth Die Schule der magischen Tiere film keeps the series' dependable combination of friendship, talking animals and gentle lessons. It also plays things noticeably safe. The familiar ingredients are intact, but fresh ideas are harder to find.
Ida's friend Miriam temporarily joins her at Winterstein School, initially unaware of the magical animals. Miriam receives the lively Fitzgeraldo, while Max is paired with the wise owl Muriel. At the same time, falling enrolment threatens the school's future, leading to a competition intended to help save it.
Some of the challenges feel arbitrary. The stronger material lies in Miriam's experiences of bullying because of her reading difficulties. Her bond with Fitzgeraldo is warm and believable, giving the film emotional substance beyond the competition. Max's growing connection with Leonie also benefits from Muriel's gently ironic observations.
The characters still travel along predictable tracks. Ida remains reliably sympathetic, Miriam is the vulnerable newcomer, and Torben supplies opposition. Those roles work, but after several films they can feel worn rather than developed.
The animals' animation has improved in places, especially Fitzgeraldo's expression and timing. Muriel is stiffer, partly in keeping with her quieter personality. The directing partnership of Bernhard Jasper and Maggie Peren brings worthwhile craftsmanship without radically changing the tone.
I give the film 6 out of 10 points. For younger children and viewers already attached to the series, its humour, warmth and emphasis on courage and solidarity remain appealing. For anyone hoping the fourth instalment would break away from the formula, there is less to discover. It is comfortable family entertainment, with only a modest amount of new magic.