Wicked Movie: A Glorious Musical Adaptation or A Tale Stretched Too Thin?
The highly anticipated Wicked movie adaptation has finally arrived, and the first reviews are as dazzlingly colorful as Oz itself. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film promises to enchant audiences with its grand production values, stellar performances, and the beloved songs that made the Broadway original a phenomenon. But does it soar to magical heights, or does its ambition weigh it down? Critics are divided.
The film, which covers only the first half of the Broadway musical, plunges into the backstory of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande), showing how these two iconic characters from The Wizard of Oz transitioned from college rivals to the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Chu's adaptation is bursting with visual spectacle—practical sets, vibrant costumes, and a mix of practical and digital effects that bring the world of Oz to life. The decision to record songs live on set adds a layer of authenticity, especially in emotional numbers like "Defying Gravity."
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Cynthia Erivo is a revelation as Elphaba. Her emotionally nuanced portrayal and powerhouse vocals steal the spotlight, capturing the pain, pride, and strength of the green-skinned heroine. Critics universally agree that Erivo’s performance is the heart of the film. Meanwhile, Ariana Grande surprises as the bubbly Galinda, with her rendition of "Popular" standing out as a comedic and vocal highlight. Their chemistry shines brightest in moments of tension and camaraderie, forming the emotional core of the movie.
Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero is another standout, with a dashing and effortlessly charismatic presence that makes his scenes sparkle. Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard also bring their unique charms to their roles, though some supporting characters feel underused.
While the film stays true to its Broadway roots, some critics feel its two-part structure stretches the narrative unnecessarily. At 2 hours and 28 minutes, Wicked: Part One sometimes feels elongated, with certain subplots adding little to the overall story. Others praise its epic scale, likening its split to sagas like The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring .
Despite some pacing issues and debates about the necessity of splitting the musical into two films, Wicked is undeniably a must-watch for fans of the stage show. For newcomers, it offers an impressive, if imperfect, cinematic experience that sets the stage for its 2025 sequel. Whether you’re already enchanted by the world of Oz or entering it for the first time, Wicked delivers just enough magic to make you want more.
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