About the film (courtesy of Universal Pictures):
The first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. The untold story of the witches of Oz. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power and Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.
The long-awaited cinematic adaptation of the Broadway phenomenon, Wicked, has finally arrived, and it’s a dazzling spectacle that lives up to the hype. Director Jon M. Chu, who previously brought Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights (2021) to the screen, once again demonstrates his mastery of translating stage magic into cinematic wonder.
Wicked serves as an origin story for the iconic witches of Oz, revealing how the “Wicked Witch of the West” and “Glinda the Good Witch” evolved from unlikely friends to bitter rivals. The film faithfully captures the essence of the stage production, with breathtaking costumes, vibrant sets, and a soaring score that will leave you humming along.
Cynthia Erivo delivers a powerhouse performance as Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned witch. She embodies the character’s vulnerability and strength with equal measure, making her transformation from outcast to villain both believable and heartbreaking. Ariana Grande is perfectly cast as Glinda, the bubbly and popular witch-wannabe. She brings a delightful charm and wit to the role, and her chemistry with Erivo is undeniable.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Jonathan Bailey as the charming Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh as the stern Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum as the enigmatic Wizard. But it’s Bowen Yang who steals the show as Pfannee, Glinda’s super sassy classmate who feels like he just left the set of Mean Girls. His comedic timing and infectious energy are a constant source of delight.
The film’s 160-minute runtime flies by, thanks to Chu’s dynamic direction and the captivating performances. And with a “Part Two” on the horizon, this is only the beginning of the story. Wicked is a visual feast, a musical triumph, and a heartwarming tale of friendship and acceptance. It’s a must-see for fans of the stage production and newcomers alike.
Wicked is set to open in theaters nationwide wide starting Friday, November 22nd with the obligatory early screening times on Thursday. Get ready to be transported to a land far away where magic is in the air.
