Streamed & Screened: Movie and TV Reviews and Interviews · Lee Enterprises

'Wicked' returns, Jason Clarke talks 'Murdaugh' and 'Stranger Things' is on the horizon

·27 min·2 clips

Jason Clarke explains how playing a living accused murderer forced him to confront threats and real-time news updates.

This episode of Streamed & Screened covers entertainment news and interviews, hosted by Terry Lipschitz and Bruce Miller. They discuss upcoming releases, including the "Wicked" film adaptation and a new Ken Burns documentary. The hosts share an interview clip with actor Jason Clarke about his role in the "Murdaugh" series and preview the final season of "Stranger Things." Ken Burns's upcoming 12-part PBS documentary re-examines the American Revolution, challenging common grade-school narratives. The hosts note the film "Wicked: Part Two" concludes the story, with stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo receiving new songs written specifically for them. Bruce Miller recalls seeing the Broadway show and feeling its first act was stronger than the second. Jason Clarke details his process for playing real people like Alex Murdaugh, studying video footage to capture physical and vocal changes. Clarke mentions listening to trial audio extensively to build the character's "wall of deniability." A surprising claim is that "Wicked: Part Two" ends with the song "For Good," which early viewers describe as overwhelmingly emotional. Jason Clarke finds playing real figures stressful because "they all have an opinion," and he must mentally side with his character to portray them authentically. The hosts reveal Clarke used a specific video of a bloated, drug-affected Murdaugh to inform his performance. Bruce Miller admits he didn't love the first "Wicked" movie but remains excited for the sequel. The family plans to see the "Stranger Things" finale in theaters if available, as episodes are set to release around Thanksgiving and Christmas. The tone is casual and conversational, blending personal anecdotes with professional entertainment analysis. The style is interview-driven, featuring clips and insider perspectives from actors and filmmakers. Fans of Broadway adaptations and behind-the-scenes actor interviews will enjoy this episode. Listeners seeking deep critical analysis or those uninterested in "Wicked" or true-crime dramas might skip it.

As heard by us

A brisk entertainment check-in that works best when it turns to playing real people.

This episode reads as an entertainment roundup with interview highlights, moving from a behind-the-scenes mishap into movie, TV, and an upcoming Ken Burns project.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Want a breezy screen-culture catch-up with interview clips and a look at what is coming next?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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