‘Wicked’ Defies Expectations

For nearly two decades, Wicked has captivated audiences on Broadway and beyond with its enchanting tale of friendship, betrayal and the witches of Oz. The musical came to the big screen Nov. 27, and the wait was certainly worth it. 

Directed by Jon M. Chu, “Wicked” stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Ariana Grande-Butera as Glinda the Good Witch. 

Supporting cast members include Jonathan Bailey as the dashing prince Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh as headmistress and sorcerer Madame Morrible and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz.

Adapted from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, “Wicked” debuted on Broadway in 2003. Both the book, show and film adaptation dive into the journey of Elphaba, a misunderstood, green-skinned girl, and Glinda, a bubbly and ambitious socialite, as they navigate their evolving friendship at Shiz University. 

Their bond is tested by societal expectations, personal ambitions and the Wizard, a charismatic but corrupt ruler who oppresses magical creatures and spreads propaganda to maintain power.

“Wicked” is a spellbinding triumph. With bold, yet respectful changes to the original source material, the film deepens the backstories of beloved characters and enriches the political and social fabric of Oz, offering viewers a nuanced exploration of its themes. 

Visually, the movie seamlessly blends CGI with practical effects to create a version of Oz that surpasses even the most imaginative stage productions. The dazzling sets, intricate costumes and awe-inspiring magical effects elevate the narrative to new heights. 

Iconic songs like “Defying Gravity” are beautifully reimagined for the screen, adding depth to the beloved soundtrack. “What Is This Feeling?” retains its emotional power through the sharp contrast between Elphaba’s earnest sincerity and Glinda’s biting sarcasm.

The cinematic adaptation freshens it with dynamic visuals and subtle shifts in orchestration that amplify the humor and tension in their budding rivalry.

Chu’s direction takes advantage of the film’s unique capabilities, using close-ups and subtle camera movement to bring out emotional nuances that resonate more clearly than in the broader style of theater. The result is a visually moving portrayal of Elphaba and Glinda’s complex relationship.

Erivo’s powerful vocal ability and dramatic gravitas brings raw intensity to Elphaba’s defiance and vulnerability. 

Erivo (“Pinocchio,” “Harriet”) portrays Elphaba with a raw self-consciousness, vividly capturing her internal struggles of feeling like an outsider. She brings a palpable sense of yearning to belong, balanced with an unwavering resolve to stand up for others. 

Erivo’s performance layers Elphaba’s vulnerability with a quiet strength, showcasing a deeply human character whose defiance against injustice feels both tender and fierce.

Grande-Butera (“Don’t Look Up,” “Hairspray Live!”), known for her pop prowess, may surprise audiences with her comedic timing and ability to convey Glinda’s personality. Grande-Butera’s Glinda combines an effervescent charm with surprising depth, revealing an underlying self-consciousness masked by a bubbly exterior.

Her fresh vocal interpretation highlights Glinda’s evolution, capturing the initial sparkle of her superficial confidence and her earnest growth into someone who genuinely wants to make a difference. 

Surrounding the duo is an ensemble of flagrant and musical personalities. The charming Fiyero entices both Elphaba and Glinda with his boyish antics and charisma. Madame Morrible likewise compels in aiding the duo’s education, lending them an idea of great status to strive for. 

The Wizard himself, played by Goldblum (“The Fly,” “Jurassic Park”) cinches the spellbinding saga as the Wizard. Jeff Goldblum’s charismatic acting and distinctively smooth singing voice bring an enigmatic charm to the Wizard, making him a pivotal force in shaping Elphaba and Glinda’s intertwined fates.

The film’s exploration of self-acceptance is rooted in Elphaba’s journey as she grapples with her ostracization and embracing her individuality. These themes emerge powerfully in moments like her first day at Shiz University, where she’s ridiculed for her green skin, and later in the pivotal “Defying Gravity” climax, where Elphaba rejects societal expectations to forge her own path.

Glinda’s arc similarly underscores these themes, as her superficial desire for popularity evolves into an authentic understanding of self-worth and compassion. The evolving friendship between Elphaba and Glinda becomes a key narrative thread, highlighting the power of mutual acceptance and challenging societal norms about beauty, status and belonging.

Though some viewers may feel the film leans more on spectacle than the intimacy of the stage, its heart and message remain intact, making it a worthy addition to the “Wicked” legacy.

“Wicked” is the first installment of a two-part series, as the film only adapted the musical’s first act. By ending before the story’s darker second half, the movie sets the stage for deeper emotional payoffs in its planned sequel. 

While this approach allows for more detailed storytelling, it’s not immediately clear to all audiences, as the marketing emphasized iconic moments that only occur in the first half, like “Popular” and “Defying Gravity.” 

“Wicked” is both a nostalgic homage and a reimagining for modern audiences. The anticipation has set high expectations, yet even as the first act of a two-parter, the film successfully meets them. 

“Wicked” is in theaters now.