Release Date: November 22, 2024
Directed By: Jon M. Chu
Written By: Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox
Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, and Peter Dinklage
Rating: PG for some intense action, thematic material, and brief suggestive themes.
Runtime: 161 minutes
Wicked Movie: Release Date, Trailer, Cast And More About The Broadway Musical Adaptation
From the moment I heard about the Wicked movie, I anticipated enjoying it, but I didn’t anticipate being this captivated. As a casual admirer of the original production and a fan of Jon M. Chu’s previous works – like Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights – I felt confident in the project’s direction. Moreover, with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in the lead roles, the casting seemed spot on. It turns out, everything I hoped has come true. Not only is it one of the best films of the year, but it’s also an adaptation that could very well be regarded as one of the finest modern movie musicals.
Wicked is the first of two installments, covering the Broadway musical’s first act. We are introduced to Glinda (Ariana Grande) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) as they attend Shiz University and are compelled to share a room. The ensuing narrative charts the emergence of a deep friendship, which becomes a pivotal emotional center in Elphaba’s transformation into The Wicked Witch of the West.
At its core, it’s a poignant tale of acceptance, personal strength, friendship, and the idea that “everyone deserves a chance to fly.” Additionally, the film has been infused with an extraordinary amount of love and attention, creating an infectious energy throughout.
A standout moment that encapsulates this is the opening number, “No One Mourns The Wicked.” Her interactions with the Munchkins provide a humorous touch, yet they are quickly undercut by Glinda’s hidden depths regarding her relationship with Elphaba. When she begins to sing, witnessing Grande nail those operatic notes is simply breathtaking. From that point onward, she embodies the character with playful charm, aided significantly by Erivo’s presence as her fellow witch.
During the screening I attended, Cynthia Erivo’s performance elicited multiple rounds of applause. As she began her first number, “The Wizard and I,” I couldn’t help but feel chills. Her vocal delivery becomes more impressive as she articulates Elphaba’s deepest aspirations. By the conclusion of the film, especially during her rendition of “Defying Gravity,” she portrays a truly transformed and determined witch.
Erivo embodies Elphaba with immense power, and she truly excels in this role.
Grande shines as well, showcasing why they come together so harmoniously. Their impeccable comedic timing, combined with their vocal blends, develops a sisterhood that is compelling and affecting throughout the film.
For Wicked to resonate, it necessitates two actresses who can fully inhabit the roles of Elphaba and Glinda, but even more importantly, it requires two women who exemplify the balance and contrast that these characters embody—exactly what Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande achieve.
The Choreography by Jon M. Chu and Christopher Scott Elevates the Musical Experience
Director Jon M. Chu and choreographer Christopher Scott form another perfect pairing. The two have collaborated for years—alongside cinematographer Alice Brooks, they worked together on In the Heights, another exceptional musical film. Their teamwork, highlighted through Scott’s choreography, Chu’s direction, and Brooks’ cinematography, results in a film filled with exquisitely captured musical moments.
This is an aspect that many musical films struggle with; but when executed with intentionality and insight, it transforms into something magical and lends a cinematic brilliance to the production.
Wicked features numerous grand musical performances. Consider “Dancing Through Life,” which showcases Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero dancing with students in the library, as well as Elphaba stealing the spotlight at the Ozdust Ballroom. The film is enriched with sweeping shots of the entire cast moving in perfect harmony.
Just like the witches’ magic, witnessing these grand numbers against the beautifully designed sets adds a thrilling touch to the film, which is integral to its appeal.
In “Dancing Through Life,” the close-ups of Bailey highlight his charisma, creating a sense of intimate connection not often felt while watching stage shows. When the camera pulls back to reveal the full ensemble dancing together, it evokes the unified energy experienced in live performances. The choreography significantly enhances the storytelling in Wicked, and when combined with thoughtful direction and cinematography, the result is pure cinematic magic.
Through grand musical sequences such as “Dancing Through Life,” “What Is This Feeling,” and “One Short Day,” Chu effectively sets the scenes that showcase the characters’ inner worlds while beautifully displaying the power and artistry of dance.
Wicked is an Immersive Experience Thanks to Stunning Set Design and an Ensemble Cast that Feels Truly Enchanted
Much like the film The Wizard of Oz, Wicked immerses viewers in a fantastical realm through its practical set design. The actors deliver performances that make it feel as though they’ve always lived among these vibrant surroundings. The strikingly realistic sets create a playground for the actors to fully embrace their roles, allowing them to transform into their characters within this magical world.
From Jonathan Bailey gracefully roaming Shiz University as if he were a genuine prince from Winkie Country to Michelle Yeoh commanding attention as Madame Morrible, the entire cast performs effortlessly. When placed against these stunning backdrops, they truly become their characters.
This transformation is particularly evident in the performances of Grande and Erivo. During “Popular,” the vibrant pink tones of Glinda and Elphaba’s room come to life, with Grande owning the space as she playfully engages with the props and embodies the character’s essence. The settings act as a captivating playground, enabling this perfect cast to thrive.
In summary, Wicked is a remarkable achievement. It enhances its original material while infusing it with cinematic magic, setting a high standard for movie musicals. In the years to come, I believe it will be regarded as one of the greatest musicals ever produced, a testament to the immense love, dedication, and precision the cast and crew brought to this wonderful story.
