The highly anticipated and longly awaited adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway musical Wicked is finally out in theaters, and it’s deserving of every bit of praise coming its way. The movie was split into two parts, with part 2 to premiere at the end of 2025.
Wicked the musical first premiered back in 2003, and it explores the complex friendship between Elphaba (who is later referred to as the Wicked Witch of the West) and Galinda, who becomes Glinda the Good Witch. The two witches first meet at school and are tested by their conflicting viewpoints and contrasting personalities. The story takes place both before and after Dorothy’s arrival in Oz, although technically, Wicked is not the actual origin of The Wizard of Oz and merely an interpretation.
The director, Jon M. Chu, has an impressive background, directing Crazy Rich Asians and another Broadway adaptation, Lin Manuel-Miranda’s first Broadway hit, In the Heights (Miranda’s second hit was Hamilton). Chu has brought the musical to life with fellow producers, choreographers, and most importantly, casting.
The casting of Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Galinda was the best choice by far. Erivo’s voice is phenomenal and she captures Elphaba’s vulnerability and confidence, while Grande displays both superb comedic timing and charm. Their on-screen chemistry – as the ultimate frenemies – is worth noting, as well.
Further, the musical holds some iconic performances that were incredible to see on screen. A few worth mentioning include “Dancing Through Life”, Jonathan Baily’s character, Fiyero’s entrance; “The Wizard and I”, by Erivo; “Popular” by Grande; and finally, “Defying Gravity”, the renowned closing to Act 1 of the musical.
Although the film ends abruptly, leaving many wondering what will happen after Elphaba and Glinda say goodbye, the decision to split the movie into two parts was smart. Here, the plotlines are elongated and easier to follow. Still, fans will have to wait until next November to see part two of the movie.
‘Wicked’ is easily one of the best films of the year, defying expectations of the legendary musical production.
