The highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway hit “Wicked” was released on Nov. 22, 2024 in theaters worldwide. Starring pop icon Ariana Grande as Glinda and award-winning actress Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the film transports viewers into Oz’s magical and familiar world. The cinematic adaptation broke records throughout its decorated theatrical run, becoming the highest-ever grossing film based on a Broadway musical.
The film captures the message and essence of the musical with stunning sets, complex characters and memorable musical numbers. Indeed, “Wicked” clocks in at two hours and 40 minutes, much of which is filled with long and extravagant songs. Fan favorites from the Broadway musical such as “Popular” and “Defying Gravity” are seamlessly woven into the film version. Show-stopping numbers are accentuated by “powerhouse vocal chops” from stars Grande and Erivo as the Santa Barbara Independent celebrates.
The actors delivered robust performances, giving audiences a window into the legendary characters. Cynthia Erivo portrays Elphaba, a vulnerable woman alienated by strangers and her family due to her electric green skin. She possesses powerful magical abilities, which she struggles to control. Ariana Grande plays Elphaba’s enemy-to-best friend Galinda — later self-named “Glinda” — a self-centered, popular student who strives to become a sorceress at Shiz University. Through a series of mishaps, the two are paired as roommates at Shiz.
In addition to its spectacle, “Wicked” tackles relevant topics of discrimination, propaganda and corruption. Beyond its clear message against discrimination, the movie also offers a nuanced perspective on power and influence. In an interview with Indiewire, director Jon M. Chu asks the film’s audience, “When you find out the [political] truth, when you wake up, what are you going to do? What’s your decision? Are you an Elphaba, or are you a Glinda?” Political undertones are also visible in the persecution of animals in Oz, particularly when the wizard attempts to turn the citizens of Oz against them to strengthen his rule. “The best way to bring folks together is to give them a common enemy,” he explains, a comment which foreshadows Elphaba’s future branded as the Wicked Witch.
Co-stars Grande and Erivo skillfully depict the pair’s transition from enemies to friends. A notable scene in the film is when Glinda gifts Elphaba a black, witch-like hat that she despises as a cruel joke. Elphaba assumes the hat is a genuine gift and wears it to her first party, which drives her classmates to mock her. Then, in a moment of self-realization, Glinda feels guilty that her scheme led to such a hurtful experience and decides to dance with Elphaba. One by one, all the students join in until they are dancing together. This moment illustrates a pivotal shift in Glinda’s attitude toward Elphaba. Both Erivo and Grande shine in their respective roles and bring the characters to life with uplifting magic.
The movie’s message about friendship and integrity solidifies it as a timeless hit. In its opening weekend alone, it drew $164 million in box office profits. The long-awaited film adaptation was praised by critics, scoring 88% on the Rotten Tomatoes scale. Wicked also received a whopping 10 Oscar nominations.
The film runs two hours and 40 minutes, and that only accounts for Part One. Be sure to hold space for “Wicked: For Good,” which is set to be released this November. In the meantime, “Wicked” is available to watch in theaters and on streaming platforms.
