Wicked 3D Movie Review

Wicked 3D Movie Review

By Adolph Vega


3D

The 3D presentation of Wicked is a mixed bag that leans more toward moments of brilliance than consistent excellence. Perhaps it was due to my theater, but the overall 3D visuals felt subdued, as if the magic that defines the story wasn’t entirely optimized for the format. The vibrant visuals and rich color palette are undeniably beautiful, with the world of Oz coming to life in bright and vivid detail. However, while certain scenes shine, much of the movie’s use of 3D is just fine, failing to leave a lasting impression across its runtime.

 

That said, the 3D truly enhances several key moments, elevating them to cinematic visual spectacles. 3D depth really makes the library scene memorable with its layered depth and enchanting atmosphere, is particularly breathtaking. One quick scene on a river with the mesmerizing ribbon fish is phenomenal in 3D. Those fish seem to flow out of the screen with a dazzling grace. The climactic final flying sequence also benefits from the added dimension, delivering a grand and immersive conclusion. Overall, Wicked has solid 3D visuals. As per usual I must state that your experience may vary depending on your local cinema (I imagine that it will look better in IMAX 3D or other premium formats). While the visuals are bright and engaging, the film feels like it could have been stronger in its execution of the format, leaving room for improvement in delivering a truly transformative 3D experience.

Final 3D Score: 7/10

Movie

Wicked is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece—a dazzling spectacle that transcends expectations and delivers one of the most engaging movie experiences of the decade (2020’s). Having watched the play last year, I approached this adaptation with high hopes, and not only were those expectations met, but they were thoroughly exceeded. This is a film that takes the already iconic subversive source material and elevates it to a new level of artistry, making it not just a worthy adaptation but a superior one in almost every conceivable way. This is a film that the entire family can love. Wicked is cinema at its best.

 

Yes, Wicked is a musical, and unapologetically so. If musicals aren’t your thing, too bad—you’d still be hard-pressed to find fault with the jaw-dropping performances. Each song is impeccably sung, filled with power, and resonance that linger long after the credits roll. The music is more than just a backdrop; it is the lifeblood of the movie, delivering moments that are fun, emotional, and deeply moving. The chemistry between the characters adds another layer to this, as the relationships feel authentic and real, drawing the audience further into this enchanting world. All the notes are hit perfectly, and everyone gives a stellar performance singing and delivering their dialogue. The characters sing because that is natural for the characters, and it fits the movie perfectly. This movie may charm you into liking musicals-it’s simply that wickedly good.

 

Visually, Wicked is an absolute triumph. From the breathtaking sets that transport you to a fully realized Oz to the intricate, fabulous costumes that feel like characters themselves, every visual element is a feast for the eyes. The film doesn’t just depict Oz—it immerses you in it, making it feel like a tangible, visitable world. The dance choreography only amplifies this immersion, with sequences so beautifully orchestrated that they feel like an extension of the narrative. The makeup is truly beautiful and is crafted with love. Whether it’s the grandiosity of the Emerald City or the intimate moments between the characters, the visuals and movement work together to create an atmosphere that is truly magical. The sets are grand, and they all look incredible.  The CGI is fantastic and overall, the visual aesthetic is truly extraordinary.

 

The writing in Wicked is sharp and deeply emotional. Originally ahead of its time when it debuted in 2003, the story now resonates with even greater poignancy—perfect for late 2024 and beyond. Its themes of fake news, hatred of minorities, acceptance, resilience, and the cost of ambition feel more relevant (sadly) than ever in today’s world. Impossible as it may sound, but the story of Wicked is somehow both timely and timeless. The narrative strikes a perfect balance between fun and depth, delivering humor, drama, and heart-wrenching moments that will stay with audiences for years to come. The allegories represented in this film are all expertly done as it never feels too preachy. Wicked is a film that deeply connected with me, offering a message of hope, perseverance, and love even in dark times. Despite its epic runtime (2 hours 40 minutes), the film never overly feels long. This movie ends perfectly, delivering a satisfying conclusion to the plot while still leaving me wanting more. I can’t wait to rewatch this movie, and I eagerly anticipate its second part in 2025.

 

The performances by the cast are nothing short of iconic. Each actor fully inhabits their role, making their characters unforgettable and, at times, downright meme-worthy. Wicked is perfectly cast. The movie’s fabulousness, in every sense of the word, is a celebration of individuality and identity, and it embraces its campy, vibrant, and deeply emotional tone with pride.

 

Perhaps what stands out most is how Wicked surpasses the play. While the stage production had its undeniable brilliance, this adaptation refines and improves upon it, trimming the weaker elements and enhancing the highlights. Some moments from the play didn’t make it into the movie, and some characters are given less screen time, but overall, the film is superior. It’s a rare feat when a movie adaptation outshines its stage counterpart.

 

This is not just a movie; it’s an instant classic, a film that will be studied, celebrated, and revisited for decades to come. It’s the perfect film for these challenging times, a reminder of the power of storytelling to inspire, uplift, and unite.

 

Whether you’re a fan of musicals or not, Wicked demands to be seen. It is, without question, one of the greatest prequels stories (The Wizard of Oz) of all time, and I left the theaters feeling 100% satisfied. Wicked is truly fantabulous wonderful film. From its jaw-dropping visuals to its emotionally charged performances, from its timely themes to its unforgettable music, Wicked is an unparalleled cinematic achievement in excellence.


Final Movie Score: 10/10 and Editor’s Choice Movie Award



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Official Website :

https://www.wickedmovie.com/

© 2024 Universal Pictures. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.


Venom 3 The Last Dance 3D Movie Review

Venom 3: The Last Dance

3D Movie Review

Written By:  Adolph Vega


3D

Venom 3: The Last Dance surprises with its 3D quality, especially since darkly lit movies often struggle with this format. However, Last Dance defies expectations and offers a visually engaging 3D experience. The presentation is unexpectedly sharp, even in dimly lit scenes, allowing viewers to appreciate the full detail and atmosphere of the Venom universe.

One of the standout sequences occurs underwater, where the 3D truly shines with countless bubbles. Depth and layers of 3D are handled with a level of vibrancy that brings the scene to life, immersing viewers in an almost tactile experience. In moments like these, the 3D enhances the intensity, pulling the audience deeper into the film’s environment. The effect could have been utilized even more, however, as there are some points where the 3D remains subtle (Too subtle). One early sequence set in Mexico (with the dogs) looked phenomenal in 3D. Sadly this sequence flies by in a few seconds.3D depth is handled well in a few key moments (waterfall and elevator scenes).

The movie also has plenty of fun pop-out moments with the various venom appendages. Various sequences with close ups of monster mouths look especially good in 3D. While not every scene uses 3D to its fullest potential, the overall experience is well-executed. This is especially notable for fans who enjoy a mix of dramatic depth and lighthearted pop-out effects.

All things considered, Venom 3: The Last Dance delivers a solid 3D presentation that complements the action and playful tone of the movie. Obviously your experience may vary so try to find the best quality, brightest theater that you can.

Final Verdict: 7/10


Movie

The third installment of Venom’s story, Venom 3: The Last Dance, takes a different approach compared to its predecessors, opting for a more straightforward narrative. This streamlined story works to the film’s benefit, especially given the overly complex romantic drama that weighed down previous entries. By focusing on action, comedy, and straightforward storytelling, Last Dance manages to keep audiences engaged from start to finish.

One of the biggest strengths of this film is its sense of humor. The comedy lands well and leans into a ludicrous, almost absurd tone that’s genuinely hilarious (many belly laughs). Tom Hardy nails this final performance as both Eddie Brock and Venom. Whether it’s Venom’s bizarre banter or ridiculous moments that seem to embrace the character’s chaotic energy, the laughs are well-earned and frequent. The action sequences are abundant, keeping the film moving at a brisk pace with hardly a dull moment in sight.

However, the film isn’t without its flaws. There are several plot holes and contrived moments that are noticeable. I accurately predicted many plot points in this movie. Despite being a part of Sony’s larger Marvel universe, Venom 3 doesn’t connect to other Sony films, which may be disappointing for those hoping for a crossover or continuation from past movies.

Visually, the movie is well-shot, with crisp, appealing cinematography that captures the gritty charm of Venom’s world. The character development is basic, with some characters feeling more like plot devices than fully fleshed-out individuals. This includes the villain, who, while true to the comics, doesn’t offer much depth. The music choices are both fun and a bit on-the-nose, matching the film’s tone.

Ultimately, Venom: The Last Dance is an enjoyable, fun finale that emphasizes action over story. It might not tie up every loose end or deliver a deep narrative, but it provides a satisfying and entertaining experience for fans of the character. The Venom movie franchise ends on a satisfying high note. Venom: Last Dance is easily the best Venom movie in the trilogy.

Final Verdict: 7/10


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Official Website :

https://www.venom.movie/

© 2024 Sony Pictures Digital Productions Inc. All rights reserved

Coraline 3D Movie Review

Coraline 3D Movie Review

by: Adolph Vega


3D


The 3D experience in Coraline is a fascinating and immersive journey, made even more special by its clever use of depth and visual play. In the "real world," the 3D is fairly subdued and almost flat, reflecting the mundane and dull nature of Coraline's life. However, this lack of 3D is purposeful, as it makes the contrast with the other world all the more impactful. Once Coraline enters the "other world," the 3D truly comes alive. The rich colors, whimsical designs, and exaggerated characters create a vibrant and popping visual experience that highlights the magic and eeriness of this alternate reality.


There are many moments where the 3D elements "pop" out of the screen, adding fun and surprise. Scenes like characters reaching toward the audience or objects flying across the screen keep you engaged and bring the story to life in a very tangible way. Whenever Coraline travels between the two worlds through a tunnel, the 3D depth really shines. The depth created during these sequences is phenomenal, making you feel as though you're being pulled through the twisting and turning passageway alongside her. The sense of movement and space is expertly done.


The 3D in Coraline isn't just a cheesy gimmick but a deliberate and well-crafted element of the movie's visual storytelling. It enhances the narrative, makes the fantastical more immersive, and delivers an overall great visual experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. Speaking of the credits, stick around for a delightful 3D credits sequence and an awesome 3D post-credits scene. FYI, I haven’t seen the previous 3D release of Coraline, so I don’t know if this presentation is better or worse than the earlier conversion. However, this 2024 version is advertised as the “ultimate” version of Coraline.

In conclusion, Coraline uses 3D in intelligent ways to add an extra layer of magic and suspense, making the film a must-watch for fans of immersive animation.


3D Final Verdict : 8/10

Movie


When Coraline first released in 2009, it became an instant modern classic, and that high regard holds strong to this day in 2024. Laika's stop-motion animation is nothing short of mesmerizing, with rich, detailed visuals that continue to dazzle audiences 15 years later. The animation brings to life a hauntingly beautiful world—a great horror story for kids that adults can easily enjoy as well. I love how tangible the film looks. The hair looks amazing for stop-motion animation. The environments are so detailed, rich, and interesting to look at. The art of Coraline is so well executed that it has become iconic since its initial release.


Coraline might be a little too scary for young children, particularly those under six, but it’s perfectly pitched for older kids, teens, and even adults. The plot is relatively straightforward, following Coraline as she discovers a parallel universe where everything in her life seems better. Despite its simplicity, the story engages viewers by tapping into deep childhood fears and desires, making the simplicity of the plot a strength rather than a weakness. The plot reminds me of an episode of the classic Rod Serling Twilight Zone, and I say this with the highest regard. Sometimes, the most effective stories are the ones that don’t need excessive complexity to resonate, and Coraline is a great example of this.


One of the aspects that makes Coraline feel ahead of its time is its use of multiple universes or parallel worlds—a theme that has only grown more popular (and perhaps overdone) in recent years. In that sense, Coraline feels like it was at the cutting edge of storytelling trends long before the concept of parallel universes became mainstream in pop culture.


What truly sets Coraline apart, though, are its memorable characters. Coraline herself is an incredibly relatable protagonist, embodying curiosity, courage, and the loneliness that comes with feeling misunderstood. The sinister "Other Mother" and her button eyes are simple yet powerfully terrifying. The very concept of replacing one’s eyes with buttons is unsettling on a primal level, and it's a visual that sticks with viewers long after the credits roll. In theory, it shouldn’t be so unnerving, but seeing it on screen still gives me the creeps even after all these years. The voice acting throughout the film is top-notch, adding depth and believability to characters that could have easily fallen flat in lesser hands.


The film is also a joy to watch, thanks to a fun and fitting score that enhances the atmosphere without ever overpowering it. The music balances light, whimsical moments with eerie, unsettling tones that keep the audience on edge as the mystery unfolds. The movie flows so well and has so many interesting moments.


Coraline is, without question, one of the best spooky movies for kids—a genre that's surprisingly difficult to get right. It captures the essence of being a child: the fear of the unknown, the longing for something better, and the bravery that comes with facing your worst nightmares. Even after all these years, the storytelling remains as captivating and fresh as ever, continuing to connect with new audiences while delighting longtime fans. The only thing that dates the movie is the flip phone.


In short, Coraline is a film that stands the test of time—a beautifully animated, well-acted story with unforgettable characters and a depth that resonates far beyond its simple premise. Whether you're watching for the first time or the tenth, it’s a film that remains a joy to experience.


Please stay in the theater after the credits roll. The movie has a cute post-credits scene. In this re-release, they’ve added bonus content after the post-credits scene. This bonus content is a new behind-the-scenes video that's about 10 minutes long, this video  is fascinating, informative, and  well worth watching.

Final Movie Verdict: 10/10



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