Paul McGann reprises his role as the Eighth Doctor in The Eighth Doctor Adventures: Causeway, a new full-cast audio adventure box set from Big Finish Productions. This collection presents some of the toughest challenges for the Eighth Doctor and his companions as they explore uncharted areas. Causeway features Paul McGann as the Eighth Doctor, alongside his companions Charley Pollard (India Fisher) and Lady Audacity Montague (Jaye Griffiths). Their latest escapades take them to a distant world in the 56th century and back to Earth, where they encounter a secretive organization that has been manipulating time. In ‘Lost Amongst the Stars’ by Rochana Patel, the Doctor brings Charley and Audacity to a futuristic planet, where an exploration team has uncovered an abandoned city filled with dangers, ranging from battling insectoid species to lethal spores. Have Charley’s aspirations of time and space travel morphed into a nightmare? ‘The Time You Never Had,’ a two-part story by Tim Foley, transports the Doctor and his companions to Copenhagen to investigate the mysterious organization known as Causeway, which has been influencing their journeys and manipulating time to serve its own interests. Causeway’s guest cast features Richard Hope as the mysterious Silurian traveler Mr. Barabbas, alongside Nicholas Khan, Bee Menabny, Robert Whitelock, Obioma Ugoala, Andrew Wincott, Poppy Miller, and Henrietta Wolfmountain. Doctor Who: The Eighth Doctor Adventures - Causeway is currently available on the Big Finish website for £19.99 for the download and £24.99 for the download plus a limited collector’s edition CD box set.

      Wicked: For Good, 2025.

      Directed by Jon M. Chu.

      Cast includes Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, Bronwyn James, Sharon D. Clarke, Colman Domingo, Peter Dinklage, Adam James, Scarlett Spears, Kerry Ellis, Alice Fearn, and Keala Settle.

      SYNOPSIS:

      The movie explores the relationship between Elphaba, who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. This is the second installment of a two-part film adaptation of the Broadway musical.

      While the first part of Wicked dazzled with its lengthy setup, the second chapter, Wicked: For Good, directed by Jon M. Chu, also has its share of flaws that seem more pronounced than before, despite being about 20 minutes shorter than its predecessor. Certain elements feel off, particularly concerning the conclusion of The Wizard of Oz narrative amidst the unfolding dynamics of friendship and conflict between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande).

      Judy Garland's portrayal cannot be replaced, and the classic film's legacy should remain untouched (with a nod to the unsatisfactory AI-altered version currently showcased at the Sphere in Las Vegas—a discussion for another time). Thus, the film chooses to keep that story in the background through silent appearances of Dorothy and fleeting cameo-like moments. There is also the risk that further emphasis could distract from the core of Elphaba and Glinda's story. With a screenplay by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox—and music by John Powell and Stephen Schwartz—Jon M. Chu finds himself constrained. While the musical likely thrives on stage, the film adaptation's connections to The Wizard of Oz come off as rushed and awkward, despite its vibrant visuals and strong performances.

      Additionally, some visual effects, such as the CGI-enhanced Tin Man and Scarecrow, come across as excessive, underscoring the idea that simplicity can be more effective. In contrast, the Cowardly Lion appears well-crafted, looking like a realistic lion with nuanced expressions that convey his character.

      Regarding the effects, whether it’s the winged CGI monkeys completing the Wizard's (Jeff Goldblum) tasks or the elaborate costume designs (especially Glinda's pink dresses), the substantial budget seems well utilized. The film is visually stunning, with vibrant colors in every frame and costumes rich in diverse shades. The sometimes clashing colors create a visually appealing spectacle once again.

      Undeniably, these elements carry the narrative, which stumbles when tying into The Wizard of Oz. There are criticisms regarding the portrayal of Elphaba's paraplegic sister, Nessarose (Marissa Bode), who is now a governor and on a morally questionable path. Although her motivations are explained, they come off as forced and limiting. The film primarily relies on single significant scenes for each character, which hampers natural development. Consequently, the depiction of Nessarose feels inadequate and poorly executed regarding representation for people with disabilities.

      Fortunately, the narrative shines when it centers on Elphaba and Glinda, becoming more focused and emotionally engaging, even though it’s mildly frustrating that pivotal parts of their stories involve competition over Fierro (Jonathan Bailey). A thought-provoking aspect is the portrayal of Oz as a reflection of America, positioned as the land of opportunity, with the Wizard resembling a Trump-like figure who continuously deceives. He even remarks that revealing his true nature wouldn’t change anything, given how firmly people can cling to flawed ideas. This observation is particularly resonant in light of recent events in America as this review is being written.

      A particular song draws parallels between Oz and American society, highlighting the ongoing oppression of those who are different. While none of the musical numbers surpass Defying Gravity, the sequences are beautifully staged, enhanced by cinematographer Alice Brooks' occasional wide shots to capture the movement and intricately designed sets.

      Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande both deliver outstanding performances again, with this installment focusing more on Glinda's struggle between her desire for admiration and doing right by Elphaba, who is confronting the Wizard's evil actions while grappling with her own choices. Though Wicked: For Good may descend from its lofty heights, it still manages to be a moving, albeit flawed, conclusion.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder