It’s a breezy romp that many viewers likely will enjoy in the moment, but those kids who Federle made this movie for, who he wanted to celebrate both in his novel and in this movie? They’re going to cherish every single minute.

| Original Score: B | May 3, 2023

A wholesome and hilarious valentine to Broadway, the power of art, the strength of hope and family itself.

| Oct 3, 2022

Although the acting is a bit cheesy and the musical numbers were forgettable, Better Nate Than Ever doesnt forget their target audience.

| Original Score: 3/5 | May 3, 2022

Disney's meddling is on full display in this de-gayed adaptation of Federle's own middle grade text. The exuberant dream sequence is strong, but the book's magic is sadly absent. Also: what did Lisa Kudrow do to make the hairstylist hate her so much?

| Original Score: 2.5/5 | Apr 25, 2022

I have to question the diversity choices of this film. Why choose a fictional musical about a Disney cartoon set in an Asian American Pacific Islander locale and focus on a White star with a Black BFF?

| Original Score: 2/5 | Apr 21, 2022

Absolutely wretched. I don't know what audience there is for this -- it's a terrible film.

| Apr 19, 2022

This kid was a little much... but when you settled into the character and you get him to New York, it becomes a sweet little story.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Apr 15, 2022

This kiddie version of the old tale of unlikely Broadway triumph is pleasant enough, but it doesnt merit a prolonged curtain call.

| Original Score: C | Apr 11, 2022

A "Broadway kid" learns of an open audition in New York. and thus begins a funny, inspiring and heart warming tale.

| Original Score: 7/10 | Apr 8, 2022

it’s an undeniably charming endeavour that boasts important themes, a promising young lead and a winning turn from Lisa Kudrow as Nate’s estranged actress aunt.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Apr 8, 2022

This is a film for every kid who's ever felt different, imagined their name in lights, or was sure they were cut out for bigger things but hadn't yet discovered what they were.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Apr 6, 2022

Wood gives Nate the proper levels of gumption, grit and desperation that propel him from Pittsburgh embarrassment to Big Apple hopeful.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Apr 5, 2022

His leads deliver hearty performances that elevate the movie, particularly once weve had time to adjust to the gusto of Wood, whose wired performance has the flavor of Hugh Jackmans exuberance squeezed into an espresso cup.

| Original Score: B- | Apr 5, 2022

The plotting may be geared towards pre-teens, but there is a certain kind of pleasure in watching Nate talk (or sing) his way in or out of every situation he encounters.

| Apr 5, 2022

We’re all never going to stop consuming Disney projects or watching Disney+. Cynical as that may be, at least there’s Better Nate Than Ever to make us feel hopeful again.

| Apr 5, 2022

Better Nate Than Ever plays with a joyful effervescence that will delight theatre kids of all ages. We cant recommend the film enough: this is the kind of kiddie adventure we wish we could have had in adolescence.

| Original Score: 3.5/4 | Apr 5, 2022

This feel-good charmer radiates positivity and inclusivity, which can brighten up even the most dreary days.

| Apr 5, 2022

Musical lovers should enjoy this adventure of one brave boy.

| Apr 5, 2022

A delightful, joyous movie about being true to who you are and the acceptance you welcome into your life when you do!

| Original Score: 5/5 | Apr 4, 2022

This coming-of-age film is made by and for theatre kids as it celebrates the magic of Broadway and New York City. Rueby Wood has a quirky charm that will have you rooting for him to make it big.

| Apr 4, 2022