Swiffer is joining in on the excitement with the magical duo, the Swiffer Sweep + Mop Deluxe Starter Kit, which is inspired by Glinda and Elphaba.

The Sweep + Mop Starter Kit is available in green and pink, with the limited-edition pink available while supplies last at select online retailers and major retailers nationwide, including Walmart and Amazon.

The Sweep + Mop Deluxe is the biggest innovation on the “original” Swiffer in over 25 years. The first Swiffer floor cleaner was known for its collapsible stick, allowing it to be stored in tight places after cleaning. The newly designed Heavy Duty Wet Cloths feature 75% more scrubbing power than previous Wet Cloths.

The post Swiffer Is Ready for Emerald City with Wicked-Inspired Sweep and Mop Combo appeared first on Nerd Reactor.

Street Food Cinema is Los Angeles’ largest outdoor cinema, food and music series. Its 14th season will have beloved films from Saturday, May 10th through October 11th for 23 weeks.

Wicked Is the Opening Night Film

Wicked is the opening film for this year’s season at The Autry Museum of the American West on Saturday, May 10th. Before the screening, fans will get to participate in colorful photo ops, eat at popular food trucks, and listen to local band Lunar Riptide and comedian Justine Marino as the emcee.

The food trucks joining are Belle Pasta, Pickles and Peas, Angelenos Wood Fired Pizza, Lupita’s Tacos, Baby’s Burgers, Tropic Truck, Love Bird, and Sure Good Soft Serve.

For libations, there are the Wicked-inspired cocktails at the bar.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., live music starts at 6:45 p.m., and Wicked will be screened at 8 p.m.

Joining Wicked in May are Anora, 9 to 5 with a Dolly Parton-themed night to celebrate the film’s 45th anniversary, and To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar that will kick off Pride Month. June will see SFC teaming up with the official Disney fan club D23 with A Goofy Movie and a special presentation of Sonic the Hedgehog.

In October, they will have a Halloween event series, Boo-ze, Bites & Frights. However, if you want to celebrate Halloween early, SFC will have the Boo-ze, Bites & Frights: Half-O-Ween event on May 2 and 3 at the Heritage Square Museum’s village. It’s an immersive, 21+ experience featuring scary movies outdoors, carnival games, bars, street food and more. The Craft will be shown on Friday, May 2, with Final Destination on Saturday, May 3, to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary.

SFC May Events:

Saturday, May 10th – Wicked at The Autry Museum, Griffith Park

Saturday, May 17th – Anora at The Autry Museum, Griffith Park

Saturday, May 24th – 9 to 5 (45th Anniversary, Dolly Parton Night) at The Autry Museum, Griffith Park

Sunday, May 25th – The Royal Tenenbaums at The Equestrian Center, Burbank

Saturday, May 31st – To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (30th Anniversary, Pride Month Kick Off Night) at Los Angeles State Historic Park, DTLA

SFC June Events:

June 7th – The Goonies (40th Anniversary) at The Equestrian Center, Burbank

June 14th – D23 x SFC Present: A Goofy Movie (30th Anniversary) at The Autry Museum, Griffith Park

June 28th – Sonic the Hedgehog at The Autry Museum, Griffith Park

Tickets are on sale now at streetfoodcinema.com.

General admission presale tickets are $22 each, with the reserved section at $27. Child general admission is $10, with child reserved section costing $15.

Tickets at the door for general admission are $27 each, reserved section is $32, child general admission is $15, and child reserved section is $20. Children 5 and younger get in free.

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This will mark the West Coast theme park debut of Wicked’s Elphaba and Glinda. Due to Fan Fest Nights gaining popularity, more nights have been added with tickets selling out fast. Universal Fan Fest Nights begins on Friday, April 25, and will be available on select nights until Sunday, May 18, 2025. Here are the available dates: April 25-27; May 2-4, 9-11, and 15-18, 2025.

Elphaba and Glinda will be decked out in their film costumes, greeting guests at the existing Wicked-themed photo op. Located near the main entrance, guests will get to start the night off as they get to feel like they’re in the Land of Oz.

Universal Fan Fest Nights will allow guests to dress up as their favorite characters or in theme (subject to Cosplay Costume Guidelines). They can dance the night away at the block party and participate in interactive activations available all over the theme park including live entertainment and photo opportunities.

Guests will also have the chance to experience new activities at the popular themed lands including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World.

For Universal Fan Fest Nights tickets, visit the Universal Studios Hollywood site.

Here are the different activations available:

Star Trek: Red Alert

Synopsis: Inspired by the Star Trek universe that has entertained millions of fans, this daring walk-through experience will boldly take guests on an immersive adventure aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D on a mission to prevent an interstellar threat. Guests will find themselves transported to the year 2403, just as an otherworldly entity wreaks havoc on the ship. As the chaos ensues, guests will venture further into the Enterprise, navigating familiar Star Trek environments, from the ship’s engineering room to transporter pads, to the soul of the Starship Enterprise, the bridge—an original set piece featured in the third and final season of Star Trek: Picard—in a desperate quest to stop the perceived danger and restore peace aboard the ship. Laden with special effects, audio-visual effects, multi-sensory activations and themed performers, this all-original experience will create an unforgettable, awe-inspiring moment that will elevate Star Trek fandom to new levels.

Back to the Future: Destination Hill Valley

Synopsis: This nostalgic experience is based on the 1985 Back to the Future blockbuster movie and invites guests to time travel back to 1955 Hill Valley alongside the film’s iconic characters. Time travel begins the moment guests climb aboard the Studio Tour “Fan Tram” and venture towards Courthouse Square, the original filming location for this classic film located on Universal Studios’ world-famous backlot.

Brimming with authenticity, Back to the Future: Destination Hill Valley will pay homage to this groundbreaking film by inserting guests into many familiar scenes with iconic props. From Hill Valley with the original Lyon Estate monuments to the Time Machine on display, guests will have the sensation of going back in time as they partake in the energetic recreation of the Enchantment Under the Sea dance and Hill Valley Festival plus experience a stunning recreation of the Clock Tower lightning strike, sending Marty back to the future multiple times each event night.

Dungeons & Dragons: Secrets of Waterdeep

Synopsis: Inspired by the World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS (D&D), this epic experience will welcome guests and fans to partake in a one-of-a-kind adventure and explore the fantastic world of D&D. Guests will join the Harpers—a heroic spy network—to foil a plot by the legendary beholder Xanathar and save the city of Waterdeep.

In creating this unique experience, Universal Studios Hollywood is collaborating with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop to create the legendary beholder Xanathar that will come to life within DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Secrets of Waterdeep. For over 40 years, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop has been a world-renowned innovator in puppetry, animatronics and digital animation.

One Piece: Grand Pirate Gathering

Synopsis: This unique experience is inspired by the long-running global hit anime series, One Piece, from creator Eiichiro Oda, that follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat Crew, including Zoro, Nami, Usopp and Sanji, on their quest to find “One Piece,” the legendary treasure of the former King of the Pirates, Gol D. Roger. The Grand Pirate Gathering will transport guests into the series’ fictional world of pirates through an immersive and interactive experience, complete with iconic visuals and scenic environments that place fans at the heart of the action. Guests will also have time to enjoy uplifting meet and greet opportunities with different characters and as well as participate in themed interactive photo ops.

Jujutsu Kaisen: Hunger of the Cursed

Synopsis: This anime experience, inspired by a widely popular Japanese manga and its anime adaptation, follows high school student Yuji Itadori after he accidentally becomes the host of a powerful curse and joins Tokyo Jujutsu High School, an organization that fights the curses. This epic adventure will be transformed into an exciting film-based experience, which first debuted at Universal Studios Japan.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Synopsis: Guests and fans will have a chance to further engage in the theme park’s immersive land with all-new magical creature interactions, including the opportunity to meet the Niffler, a Baby Dragon and grand Occamy. The centerpiece of the experience will feature the visually spectacular Hogwarts Always light projection show designed to take guests on a whimsical journey through a school year at Hogwarts. Weaving together unforgettable music and incredible moments of wizardry, Hogwarts Always will shine bright as it comes to life set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts Castle.

Super Nintendo World

Let’s Go, Yoshi—This exciting addition to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will mark the debut of beloved fan favorite Yoshi as a brand new meet-and-greet character within the land during Universal Fan Fest Nights. As part of Yoshi’s welcome to the land, guests will have a chance to interact with Yoshi as they engage in a scavenger hunt to locate all five colorful Yoshi eggs. After completing this original quest, guests will reap the benefit of a very special reward with the unique opportunity to meet a different colored Yoshi. Plus, guests will be treated to celebratory drone moments that will illuminate the night sky throughout the evening.

Wicked

This engaging meet and greet opportunity will feature the first-ever addition to Universal Studios Hollywood of the Elphaba and Glinda characters from Universal Pictures’ blockbuster movie.

Select Universal Studios Hollywood attractions will be available including Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Jurassic World – The Ride, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride and The Simpsons Ride.

Here are the ticket information:

• General Admission: General Admission ticket to Universal Fan Fest Nights.
• Universal Express: Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including one-time (per day) express access to each in-world experience, ride and attraction. Does not include early event access.
• Universal Express Unlimited: Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including unlimited express access (per day) to each in-world experience, ride and attraction. Does not include early event access.
• After 2PM Day/Night: Daytime General Admission to the theme park after 2pm and same day General Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights.
• After 2PM Day/Night Universal Express: Daytime admission to the theme park after 2pm and same day to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including one-time (per day) express access to each ride, attraction and seated show during the day, plus one-time (per day) express access to each in-world experience, ride and attraction during the event.
• 2-Night General Admission: 2-Night General Admission access to Universal Fan Fest Nights. Blockout dates apply to second visit.
• Ultimate Fandom Pass: General Admission pass to enjoy up to all event nights of Universal Fan Fest Nights. No blockout dates on return visits. Does not include early event access.
• Early Access Ticket: Early access, beginning at 5:30pm (subject to change) to select Universal Fan Fest Nights in-world experiences prior to event opening. A Universal Fan Fest Nights admission ticket must be purchased separately.
• Fan Fest Nights VIP Tour: Enjoy VIP treatment of the event, including a shared, expertly guided walking tour of the in-world experiences, rides and attractions, as well as a gourmet dinner (alcoholic beverages excluded) in the private VIP dining room and complimentary valet parking.
• Pass Member Special Pricing: Pass Members can take advantage of special online Pass Member pricing on General Admission tickets to Universal Fan Fest Nights when visiting on select nights.

The post Universal Fan Fest Nights 2025 – Everything You Need to Know! 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 trailer has been released this week, featuring songs from the musical and starring Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda.

In addition, a new video has been released with Michelle Yeoh as Shiz University’s regal headmistress Madame Morrible, who is now accepting applications for the institution. You can visit https://www.shizuniversity.com for more info.

About Wicked

Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.

The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power, while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences on her future. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

The film also stars Michelle Yeoh as Shiz University’s regal headmistress Madame Morrible; Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers) as Fiyero, a roguish and carefree prince; Tony nominee Ethan Slater (Broadway’s Spongebob Squarepants, Fosse/Verdon) as Boq, an altruistic Munchkin student; Marissa Bode in her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba’s favored sister; and Jeff Goldblum as the legendary Wizard of Oz.

The cast of characters includes Pfannee and ShenShen, two conniving compatriots of Glinda played by Emmy nominee Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live) and Bronwyn James (Harlots); a new character created for the film, Miss Coddle, played by Tony nominee Keala Settle (The Greatest Showman) and four-time Emmy winner Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) as the voice of Dr. Dillamond.

The film is directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), based on the musical Wicked, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, book by Winnie Holzman, from the novel by Gregory Maguire.

Wicked will be released in theaters on November 27, 2024, and Wicked Part Two on November 26, 2025.

The post Wicked Trailer Is Here, Plus Applications Open for Shiz University appeared first on Nerd Reactor.