Where Wicked could feel baggy and uneven, For Good moves with noticeably stronger pacing and leaner storytelling. Scenes transition with more purpose, and songs are allowed to stand on their own. Chu keeps a firmer grip on the narrative threads. His flair for movement and spectacle shines brightest in the big set pieces. There’s a fluidity to how the camera sweeps through musical set pieces.

At the same time, For Good can occasionally stumble into tonal whiplash. The franchise’s inherent tug-of-war between soaring musical sentiment and quieter moments becomes more pronounced here. When the film jumps quickly from heartfelt confessionals to looming authoritarian dread to its connection to The Wizard of Oz, the contrast can feel abrupt. And in the final act, a few plot transitions rush by so quickly that you wish the story had flowed better.

Wicked: For Good wraps up Elphaba and Glinda’s journey with sincere emotion, memorable song performances, and a heartfelt finale to the saga.

But the emotional center of the film is the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda. Cynthia Erivo delivers a more vulnerable, internalized performance this time around. There’s a quiet ache behind every decision she makes, and her control over even the smallest emotional beats gives the film real weight. Ariana Grande, meanwhile, levels up dramatically from her already solid first outing. Her Glinda is more grounded, earnest, and emotionally readable.

When the two share the screen, the movie finds its sweet spot. Their voices blend beautifully in every duet, but “For Good” is the undisputed emotional apex. The duet is sincere, mature, and devastating in the way only a bittersweet goodbye can be. Chu’s decision to avoid overediting pays off here; he lets the performers sing, enables the scene to play, and trusts the audience to sit with the moment. It’s rare for a modern musical number to feel intimate rather than overproduced.

If the film has one lingering frustration, it’s that some supporting characters still feel underused—threads teased in Part One don’t always pay off with the depth they deserve. But even that can’t dim the impact of a finale that understands its emotional priorities.

Overall, Wicked: For Good doesn’t just wrap up the story; it earns the tale its conclusion. It’s heartfelt, visually dynamic, and anchored by two stellar performances from Erivo and Grande. This is a finale that soars where it matters most.

Rating: 4/5 atoms

Wicked: For Good hits theaters on November 21st.

The post Wicked: For Good Review – Defying Gravity on the Yellow Brick Road appeared first on Nerd Reactor.

The movie held a special Los Angeles screening with the voice cast, and Nerd Reactor had the chance to interview the actors about the project.

The Voice of Ne Zha

Crystal Lee voices the titular character, Ne Zha, and the character has experienced struggles in the two films, whether it’s an inner struggle as a demon boy or helping those he cares about. In relation to struggles, Lee had her own when moving to LA to pursue acting.

“I grew up a child of immigrants,” Lee tells Nerd Reactor. “I think a lot of people who grew up with my background would consider a pretty typical path of doing some kind of STEM field. Get a stable career going. No problem with that. And then I fell in love with acting.

“It was this wrestling that I had to do for a while with my identity and being like, ‘How bad do I want this? How much is it a part of me? Can I ignore it?’ The answer was no. And eventually the answer came out being, I knew I’d regret it for the rest of my life if I didn’t do this, because this is what’s true to me. I love telling stories more than anything.”

Ao Bing, the Dragon Prince

Aleks Le voices Ao Bing, a dragon prince and the yang to Ne Zha’s ying. He also shares what he struggles with.

“There’s been too many inner struggles,” Le said. “It’s struggle city all the time. For me, I guess I just kind of have to keep trucking through, you know? Because regardless, if I put it off, then I have to deal with it tomorrow. So I just do my best to lock in for the moment and just push through the best I can.”

About Ne Zha II

Synopsis: A rebellious young boy, Ne Zha, is feared by the gods and born to mortal parents with wild, uncontrolled powers. Now he’s faced with an ancient force intent on destroying humanity, he must grow up to become the hero the world needs.

The film is written and directed by Jiao Zi and produced by Wang Jing and Liu Wenzhang.

The voice cast includes Michelle Yeoh, Crystal Lee, Vincent Rodriguez III, Aleks Le and Damian Haas.

The English dub of Ne Zha II releases in U.S. theaters on August 24, 2025.

The post Inside the Minds Behind Ne Zha II’s English Voices appeared first on Nerd Reactor.

The film follows the unlikely friendship between Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda Upland (Ariana Grande). As Elphaba, Erivo delivers a powerful performance by providing the character with complexity and vulnerability. Her version of “Defying Gravity” is a definite highlight as it showcases her vocal prowess and emotional depth. There’s a reason why Universal chose to use the song in most of Wicked‘s theatrical promotional videos. At the same time, Ariana Grande brings a delightful charm to Glinda. She perfectly blends a Lucille Ball style of comedy with Glinda’s path of introspection. Together, their on-screen chemistry became the beating heart of the film’s emotional core. Supporting performances by Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible add depth and nuance to their roles.

Visually, Wicked is a feast for the eyes. The production design vividly brings Oz to life. The film is full of vibrant colors and intricate details that pay homage to The Wizard of Oz and the original stage production while leveraging the capabilities of modern cinema.

Chu’s direction ensures that the film remains accessible to general audiences, even those who have never seen the stage play. Not to mention, he skillfully balances grand musical numbers with intimate character moments. This balance allows the story’s themes of acceptance, identity, and the nature of good and evil to resonate deeply. Also, the screenplay by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox retains the wit and poignancy of the original while making necessary adjustments to suit the cinematic adaptation.

Overall, Wicked successfully translates the beloved stage classic into a cinematic experience that is both grand and intimate. Its compelling performances, stunning visuals, and timeless themes make it a must-watch for both fans of the musical and newcomers alike.

Movie Review: 4/5 atoms

Video

Wicked is available on Ultra HD Blu-ray in a native 4K, HEVC / H.265, Dolby Vision/HDR10 presentation with a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. The Ultra HD Blu-ray release of Wicked provides excellent picture depth. The highlights shine without overpowering the image, and the shadows are well-balanced, preserving detail in darker scenes without losing depth. Color saturation is another standout, with vibrant yet natural hues enhancing the film’s magical aesthetic without feeling artificially boosted. Also, the detail clarity is exceptional, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of the costumes, set designs, and special effects. Every meticulous detail, from the texture of fabrics to the tiniest embellishments in the background, is beautifully rendered, showcasing the incredible TLC that went into bringing this beloved Broadway musical to life.

Video Review: 4.5/5 atoms

Audio

Wicked is available on Ultra HD Blu-ray with a Dolby Atmos or a 7.1 Dolby TrueHD audio presentation if Atmos is not supported. This review will cover the Blu-ray’s Dolby Atmos mix. The Wicked Ultra HD Blu-ray delivers an impressive and immersive audio experience, ensuring that every song, line of dialogue, and sound effect is heard with stunning clarity. While the music takes center stage, the film’s Atmos mix still shines—especially in key moments, such as the fiery climax in Oz. The surround speakers enhance the experience in these moments with nuanced and distinct sound effects. Stephen Schwartz’s iconic music has never sounded better. The vocals and instrumentals are beautifully separated, creating a rich, layered sound that fully envelops the viewer. Despite the grand musical elements, dialogue remains crisp and clear, ensuring you can hear every word without being overpowered by the score.

Audio Review: 5/5 atoms

Special Features

Wicked has no bonus features on the Ultra HD disc. However, the following bonus features can be found on the HD Blu-ray disc:

• Sing-Along Version of Wicked
• Deleted and Extended Scenes
  • Pfannee & ShenShen Meet Glinda
  • Shiz Gazette Introduces Fiyero
  • Toss Toss
  • Elphaba & Fiyero in the Forest
  • Elphaba’s Promise
  • Train Platform Farewell
  • Boq & Elphaba Talk
  • Train Ride to Emerald City
  • In the Emerald City
  • Palace Monkey’s Chase
• Making Wicked
• Welcome to Shiz
• A Wicked Legacy
• The Wonderful Wizard
• Feature Commentary with Director Jon M. Chu
• Feature Commentary with Stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande

Features Assessment

One of the highlights is the collection of deleted and extended scenes. While it’s always intriguing to see what didn’t make the final cut, it’s also clear why these scenes were left on the cutting room floor. Still, at the very least, they offer additional context for certain scenes, and we get to see more of Oz.

The standout feature is undoubtedly Making Wicked, an engaging, nearly 46-minute documentary. This behind-the-scenes featurette takes viewers through much of the filmmaking journey, from early production to the final days of shooting. It’s full of behind-the-scenes footage, including costume tests, hair and makeup trials, and candid moments. We’ve heard the amount of hard work that went into bringing Wicked to the big screen, and now you’ll get to see it.

In addition, there are three shorter but equally fascinating featurettes: Welcome to Shiz, A Wicked Legacy, and The Wonderful Wizard. These 4-8 minute segments are excellent companions to Making Wicked, each offering a unique perspective on the film’s production, stage musical legacy, and practical effects.

And if that weren’t enough, this release includes two full-length commentary tracks. One features director Jon M. Chu, while the other brings together stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Both tracks are entertaining and insightful, packed with fun anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and thoughtful reflections on making the film. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a devoted Wicked fan, these commentaries add another layer of appreciation to the movie.

Special Features Review: 5/5 atoms

Overall, Wicked is a visually stunning and emotionally spellbinding adaptation that masterfully blends breathtaking performances and a dazzling production design to bring the beloved Broadway musical to life. The video and audio quality are equally magical, and the bonus features provide film fans with a treasure trove of information.

Overall Review: 4/5 atoms

Wicked is now available in stores on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray.

This Blu-ray was provided by Universal Pictures Home Entertainment for review purposes.

The post Wicked – 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review appeared first on Nerd Reactor.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the musical or a newcomer, Wicked is an awe-inspiring musical journey that deserves its place alongside The Wizard of Oz. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver unforgettable performances as Elphaba and Glinda, respectively. Erivo breathes life into Elphaba’s complexity by portraying the character’s straight-edged seriousness with a heartfelt vulnerability.

On the other hand, Grande is a revelation as Glinda. She brings impeccable comedic timing and physical humor reminiscent of Lucille Ball. She provides a lighthearted counterbalance to Elphaba’s formality. Her playful facial expressions, bubbly charm, and moments of earnest vulnerability create a hilarious and endearing Glinda. Together, Erivo and Grande’s chemistry anchors the story, and much like the musical, their friendship becomes the film’s emotional heart.

This adaptation beautifully renders the iconic songs of Wicked, such as “Defying Gravity” and “Popular.” Although I haven’t seen the stage musical to compare interpretations, the film brings a cinematic and imaginative grandeur that complements these musical numbers. Each performance elevates the story’s emotional weight, and the cast brings their A-game with each and every note.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the musical or a newcomer, Wicked is an awe-inspiring musical journey that deserves its place alongside The Wizard of Oz.

Jon M. Chu’s vision is nothing short of breathtaking. Much like the original Wizard of Oz, this film evokes a sense of wonder that pulls you into its vibrant world. The production design is meticulous, as well. Every detail, like the sparkling Emerald City towers, eerie forests, and dazzling costumes, adds to the film’s sense of magic and imagination. His ability to merge large-scale spectacle with quiet character moments ensures that Wicked feels grand and deeply intimate.

Also, Chu’s direction masterfully balances the whimsical elements of Oz with the story’s darker undertones. His previous experience with visually rich projects like Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights shines here as he crafts a cinematic experience that feels both modern and timeless.

While the movie dazzles overall, it does have a few moments where the pacing feels uneven, particularly in transitioning between large musical numbers and quieter scenes. Specific plot points might also feel slightly rushed or underexplained for those unfamiliar with the original musical. However, these are minor issues in an otherwise charming film.

Overall, Wicked is a cinematic triumph that honors the legacy of Victor Fleming’s The Wizard of Oz while opening the door for new fans to discover its magic. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver standout performances that anchor this visually stunning and emotionally resonant film. Not to mention, Jon M. Chu’s inspired direction captures the spirit of the beloved musical and expands it into a larger-than-life spectacle. So, whether you’re revisiting the Land of Oz or stepping into this world for the first time, Wicked is a must-watch for anyone seeking a magical escape.

Rating: 4/5 atoms

Wicked hits theaters on November 22nd.

The post Wicked Review – A Magical Musical Journey Through the Land of Oz appeared first on Nerd Reactor.

The story itself weaves a captivating narrative of the supernatural, filled with twists and turns that keep most audiences guessing until the end. Of course, avid murder mystery audiences will quickly figure out who the killer is. However, it still doesn’t take away from the movie. Also, the characters are well-developed, and the talented ensemble delivers performances that convey fear and determination while trying to convince the audience that they aren’t the killer.

A Haunting in Venice succeeds in creating a cinematic experience that goes beyond mere scares. Not only is it the best Branagh adaptation, but it’s a visual and auditory spectacle that immerses viewers in the spooky world he put together. This film is a must-watch for fans of Agatha Christie and those seeking a thrilling ride through the mysterious streets of Venice. Brace yourself for an unforgettable journey into Venice, where every corner hides a secret.

Movie Review: /5 atoms

Video

A Haunting in Venice hits Blu-ray with a 1080p MPEG-4 AVC HD presentation in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The Blu-ray release of A Haunting in Venice boasts impressive contrast levels, enhancing the film’s visual impact. The brightness levels in this Blu-ray release are vibrant, ensuring details are easily discernible even in darker or low-light settings. At the same time, A Haunting in Venice maintains solid black levels, enhancing the depth of shadows and contributing to the overall eerie atmosphere.

Whether a haunted house’s deep, chilling tones or the vibrant hues of supernatural elements, the colors are accurate and emotionally resonant. The Blu-ray release also enhances detail clarity, allowing viewers to appreciate the intricacies of the beautiful production design. So, the refined textures, subtle details in costumes, and the haunted surroundings are all rendered precisely. The film grain in A Haunting in Venice maintains a balanced approach, which, in turn, preserves the intended aesthetic without compromising overall image quality.

Video Review: 5/5 atoms

Audio

A Haunting in Venice hits Blu-ray with a 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio presentation. The Blu-ray release of A Haunting in Venice emphasizes accurate object placement, allowing viewers to locate sounds precisely within the three-dimensional soundstage. Sound effects like subtle or sudden shifts in audio heighten tension and contribute to the overall eeriness. From the distant echoes in a haunted palazzo to the ethereal sounds, the mix’s atmospherics excels in delivering the ambient sounds. Not to mention, Hildur Guðnadóttir’s musical score engages in the front and surround channels and complements and enhances the film’s horror elements. 

Also, the balance between ambient sounds and dialogue is carefully maintained, allowing viewers to hear the dialogue clearly without missing important details, even amid atmospheric or intense scenes. The subwoofer channel is utilized effectively to deliver impactful low-frequency effects. Whether it’s the ominous thuds in a palazzo or the deep resonance of supernatural occurrences, the subwoofer enhances the overall depth and intensity of the audio experience.

Audio Review: 5/5 atoms

Special Features

A Haunting in Venice hits Blu-ray with the following bonus features on the disc:

• Murder, Death, and Haunting
• Deleted Scenes
  • Morning Routine
  • The Doge’s Palace
  • Halloween Party Extended
  • Desdemona’s Warning
  • Children’s Story
  • Poirot Needs Air
  • Guarding the Gates
  • Secret Doorway Extended
  • Ferrier’s Shouts
  • Poirot Pauses for Thought
  • Journey Home

Features Assessment

Murder, Death, and Haunting, thankfully, isn’t merely an EPK-style featurette. It’s a comprehensive making-of documentary that takes viewers through Branagh’s filmography of Christie adaptations and the various stages of Venice‘s production. Through interviews with cast and crew and footage from the set, this featurette provides informative insights into the filmmaking process and the challenges of bringing “Hallowe’en Party” to the screen. Unfortunately, it’s all downhill from here. The rest of the bonus features showcase many deleted and extended scenes. They’re decent, but it’s a shame that a featurette and deleted scenes are all we get in this release.

Special Features Review: 1.5/5 atoms

Overall, A Haunting in Venice beautifully captures the eerie beauty of Venice and transforms it into a backdrop for a supernatural murder mystery. The video and audio presentations are spectacular, but the special features are lacking.

Overall Review: 4/5 atoms

A Haunting in Venice is now available in stores on Blu-ray.

This Blu-ray was provided by 20th Century Studios Home Entertainment for review purposes.

The post A Haunting in Venice – Blu-ray Review appeared first on Nerd Reactor.

The film follows the retired detective, Hercule Poirot, whose latest case takes him to his absolute limits. Set on Hallows’ Eve, Hercule Poirot (Branagh) resides in Venice, enjoying a simple, quiet life. However, his retirement is cut short by the arrival of his friend Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey). This acclaimed mystery novelist invites him to a seance. She hopes to have him deduce if the medium running it, Joyce (Michelle Yeoh), is a scam artist. Intrigued, Poirot accepts her offer, learning that a woman named Alicia died a year ago under mysterious circumstances in the Palazzo where the event is taking place. Poirot quickly exposes Joyce’s tricks to create the belief that she is communicating with the dead. Still, one of the guests dies, prompting the detective to investigate who the killer is once again.

Branagh has always used a light touch in adapting Agatha Christie’s books into films. He respects the source material, relying on the book’s theatrically larger-than-life characters and juicy twists. A Haunting In Venice continues the series’ pursuit of murder-mystery storytelling that never takes itself too seriously while dishing out the essential thrills and suspense. 

A Haunting in Venice succeeds as an engaging and visually enticing gothic murder mystery. 

Thankfully, Branagh does away with the awful CGI of his earlier Poirot tales and mostly goes for practical settings. John Paul Kelly’s production design and Sammy Sheldon’s costumes are excellent and set the gothic tone for the entire film. There are fewer A-listers in the cast this time, as it tries to focus more on the performances than seeing a giant all-star cast underutilized as they fight for screen time with each other. Here, each character delivers a long, intense monologue, showcasing their acting prowess to audiences. It’s as if Branagh wanted to create a film that harkens back to his theatre days in England.

While everyone shines in their respective roles, it’s director/actor Kenneth Branagh who shines brightest in Venice. Branagh delivers a performance that is less hammy than in the previous chapters. He has simultaneously grown more assured as Hercule Poirot, who has shed some of his cockiness as he ages. However, his mind remains as sharp as ever. Equally devilish are Michelle Yeoh and Jude Hill. Yeoh and Hill’s performances are as unsettling as they are captivating.

Overall, A Haunting in Venice is easily the best of Branagh’s Poirot adaptations. From its gothic 40s Venetian setting to its eerie supernatural tone, it’s creepy and fun to watch. It’s a film that makes this a welcome entry to the 2023 Halloween season for horror and non-horror fans alike.

Rating: 3.5/5 atoms

A Haunting in Venice hits theaters on September 15th.

The post A Haunting in Venice – Third Time’s a Charm appeared first on Nerd Reactor.