“No one mourns the Wicked…The Wicked died alone.” these are both valid queries that open the door to Elphaba and Glinda’s self-realization journey through Shiz University at Oz. These statements are the lyrics belted by Ariana Grande’s Good Witch character as the opening number of the heavily marketed and highly anticipated musical film version of the Broadway musical “Wicked.” The elixir-like tune is an exquisite display of sentiments and vocal virtuosic interpretation by the pop singer. It produced spontaneous applause from an audience ready to be swept from their seats and transported to the magical land where it all started. Creations such as foreshadowing “The Wizard and I” and the soul-wrenching grand finale “Defying Gravity.” connect to the fabric of the human soul. Adding to the mastery of the cast, special effects crew, and the omnipresent marketing vision of Michael Moses gave the movie director Jon M. Chu a good boost of confidence in the undertaking to lead the ship on the path to reaching the box office records garnering the critic’s high praise.
For two hours and forty minutes, spellbound audiences of fans of the musical got the privilege to witness a well-crafted, big-budget version of the Broadway classic “Wicked” that had a flock of thespian lovers worldwide raving for twenty years and counting. The movie received the Critics Choice Seal of Distinction, in addition to Oscar buzz, since it is one of the contenders to earn nominations in Best Film, Best Supporting Actress: Ariana Grande, and Best Actress: Cyntia Erivo.
The cinematography is splendid, with a bonafide soundtrack of stellar musical alchemy of sounds and lyrics, creating a cathartic emotional experience that reaches the hearts of the crowds. The talented cast encapsulates the very best of the performing world, from Hollywood royalty Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard of Oz to versatile Peter Dinklage giving life to Dr. Dillamond to the acclaimed Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible deceiving Shiz University headmistress alongside Grande and Erivo and the entire ensemble showcase their skills as performers in this entertaining and moving rendition of a beloved musical. From its inception, the film has had an advantageous position courtesy of the composer Stephen Schwartz, whose gift of storytelling through simultaneously. The formula worked, and the depth of the characters attached to the ambivalence of their journey to become who they were meant to be or to be ripped off their disguise resonates deeply with most moviegoers, translating into box office results. $184 million globally in the first week. The themes of animal cruelty at the hands of Madame Morrible and Dr. Dillamond, an unlikely friendship between the famous good persona Glinda and the green-looking brilliant Elphaba, destined to the controversy due to her unconventional appearance in addition to the perception that others have of her; the deceiving power-hungry Wizard of Oz embodied to perfection by the ever persuasive Goldblum; the popular Prince Fiyero played by the highly on demand British import Jonathan Bailey. The “Wicked” film version lives up to the hype built by fans since the pop singer Ariana Grande and Broadway darling Cynthia Erivo were confirmed in their roles. Those attendees, whose goal was to satisfy their need for Broadway musicals tradition, got to quench their thirst. For the film enthusiasts who weren’t sure if the production could pay its respects to Dorothy’s journey in Oz, walk out with the certainty that Jon Chu’s directorial intention was not to emulate or overshadow the legacy of the original movie since “Wicked” it fits seamlessly into the narrative of Oz World. Part one of this colossal artistic enterprise fulfills the promise of an entertaining, beautifully made sensorial experience achieved by the wealth of depth in the storyline of Elphaba’s to become The Wicked Witch Of The West and Glinda’s road to her “Good Witch” destiny. Ultimately, the screenplay and the music left viewers with lessons in self-acceptance, empathy, friendship, bravery, and the understanding of the damage of judging a book by its cover instead of allowing the soul to blossom and reveal itself. The gold brooch, the icing on the cake, and the bonus tracks were the cameos of Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth, Broadway Elphaba, and Glinda, respectively giving the stamp of approval and the warm welcome to Hollywood’s Ariana and Cynthia’s roles in Wicked—a must-see, heart-transforming, dazzled entertainment experience that will provoke tears, joy, and sorrow simultaneously. The movie also features stunning visuals that enhance the magic of Oz, from the breathtaking landscapes to the dazzling costumes that transform the performers into their iconic roles. Vibrant colors fill the screen, bringing the land of Oz to life in a way that feels fresh and immersive. The emotional performances of Grande and Erivo highlight the complex emotional depth of their characters. At its core, “Wicked” is a testament to the enduring power of love and perseverance, ultimately proving that even the most misunderstood individuals have a place in the world.