Jon M. Chu’s Wicked, the much-anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, dazzles with its grandiose spectacle and heartfelt story. With breathtaking visuals, unforgettable musical numbers, and a stellar cast led by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this prequel to The Wizard of Oz is a feast for both the eyes and the heart.
If you’re a fan of show-stopping productions like Crazy Rich Asians or In the Heights, Chu’s signature razzle-dazzle ensures Wicked is a cinematic event worth experiencing. Let’s dive into what makes this film an enchanting, if occasionally overstuffed, journey.
The Story: A Magical Friendship
Wicked takes us back to the land of Oz, exploring the untold story of how the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), and Glinda the Good Witch (Ariana Grande) came to be. Beginning with Glinda’s triumphant descent into Munchkinland to announce the Wicked Witch’s demise, the movie flashes back to their college days at Shiz University.
Elphaba, ostracized because of her green skin, and Galinda (as Glinda is initially known), the pampered queen bee, are forced to room together. Their rocky start evolves into an unlikely bond as they discover that beneath their stark differences, they genuinely understand each other.
The dynamic between these opposites forms the emotional core of Wicked. One particularly poignant moment—a wordless dance between Elphaba and Glinda—beautifully captures the depth of their friendship, making its eventual unraveling all the more impactful.
For a detailed breakdown of all the key moments and in-depth analysis of Part One, be sure to check out our full review: Wicked Part One: Key Moments and Review.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Shine as Elphaba and Glinda
Taking on roles made iconic by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth is no small feat, but Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande rise to the challenge with grace and originality.
- Cynthia Erivo delivers a powerful performance as Elphaba, infusing the character with vulnerability and determination. Her expressive eyes convey Elphaba’s isolation, and her commanding vocals bring the demanding musical numbers to life.
- Ariana Grande, known for her comedic timing and vocal prowess, gives Glinda an endearing depth. Her portrayal strikes the perfect balance between the character’s outward confidence and inner insecurities, creating a Glinda who feels human and relatable.
Their chemistry anchors the film, making their journey from friends to rivals deeply moving.
Spectacular Visuals and Design
Jon M. Chu’s talent for creating visual spectacles is on full display in Wicked. From Munchkinland to the Emerald City, the world of Oz bursts with vibrant colors and intricate details.
- Costume Design: Paul Tazewell’s work is exquisite, particularly in Galinda’s transformation scene during the song “Popular.” The hot pink lighting and dazzling wardrobe choices perfectly capture the character’s personality and ambition.
- Production Design: Nathan Crowley, known for his collaborations with Christopher Nolan, creates awe-inspiring sets, including the rotating library at Shiz University that serves as the backdrop for “Dancing Through Life.”
- Cinematography: Alice Brooks’ stunning visuals transport viewers to a magical realm, balancing intimate character moments with larger-than-life musical sequences.
Standout Performances from a Stellar Cast
While Erivo and Grande command the spotlight, the supporting cast adds depth and flair to the film:
- Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton) is charming as Prince Fiyero, a love interest for both witches, and gets to show off his musical theater chops.
- Michelle Yeoh (Everything Everywhere All At Once) brings elegance and menace to Madame Morrible, the sorcery professor.
- Peter Dinklage lends gravitas to Dr. Dillamond, a talking goat and professor whose plight reflects the film’s heavier themes.
- Jeff Goldblum steals scenes as the Wizard, a charismatic yet sinister figure whose reign of fear feels all too relevant.
Themes of Oppression: A Double-Edged Sword
Wicked doesn’t shy away from addressing deeper themes like authoritarianism and prejudice, which are baked into the source material. The persecution of talking animals and Elphaba’s struggle as a minority add resonance, but the film’s tone sometimes wobbles between whimsical wonder and dark social commentary.
These moments, while poignant, can feel heavy-handed and slow the pacing of the otherwise vibrant story. At 2 hours and 40 minutes, Wicked asks a lot of its audience—especially since this is only part one, with the second installment slated for release in November 2025.
Musical Highlights
The music, composed by Stephen Schwartz, remains the heart of Wicked. Some of the standout numbers include:
- “Popular”: Ariana Grande’s playful and technically brilliant rendition is a visual and vocal delight.
- “Dancing Through Life”: Featuring elaborate choreography by Christopher Scott, this number brings energy and fun to the film.
- “Defying Gravity”: Cynthia Erivo’s take on this iconic anthem is sure to give fans goosebumps.
Each song is brought to life with dazzling choreography and impeccable production, ensuring the music resonates both emotionally and visually.
Final Thoughts: A Cinematic Spectacle Worth Watching
Wicked is an ambitious and visually stunning adaptation that balances show-stopping musical numbers with heartfelt character moments. While the film’s tone occasionally falters under the weight of its darker themes, the chemistry between Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande keeps the story grounded.
Fans of the Broadway musical will appreciate the faithful recreation of iconic moments, while newcomers to the story will be enchanted by the magic of Oz. Despite its flaws, Wicked delivers on its promise of a cinematic escape that will leave audiences eager for part two.
Where to Watch
Wicked (Part 1) arrives in theaters on 22 November 2024, with part two set to debut in November 2025.
What’s Next After Wicked: Part One?”
As we marvel at the breathtaking visuals and heart-stirring performances of Wicked: Part One, it’s only natural to wonder what’s next in store for Elphaba and Glinda. The sequel, Wicked: Part Two, is already creating a buzz with its slated release date of November 21, 2025. For a deep dive into what’s coming, including detailed plot insights and returning cast members, check out Everything we know about Wicked: Part Two
Image courtesy of Universal Pictures, Marc Platt Productions, and David Stone Productions.
Mohit Singhania is a passionate film enthusiast and the creator of CinematicJunction.com, a platform dedicated to exploring the world of movies and web series.
With a commitment to delivering original, high-quality content, Mohit combines his love for storytelling with sharp insights into the entertainment industry. When he’s not writing, you can find him binge-watching the latest series or diving deep into the art of filmmaking.
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