“Wicked”, an adaptation of the famous Broadway musical, follows Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo) and her journey before becoming the famed “Wicked” Witch of the West. The film begins with the defeat of the “Wicked” Witch of the West during the events of “The Wizard of Oz” and cuts to the past with Elphaba’s rough childhood. Eventually Elphaba’s unexpected enrollment at Shiz University gives her the chance to harness the rare magical talent she possesses and prove herself. Finally here at Shiz University the film is able to focus on what I think is the most interesting aspect of this film, which is Elphaba and Galinda/Glinda (Ariana Grande-Butera) 's complex relationship with one another.
This relationship is brought to life with the help of strong performances from both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Portraying these two iconic characters is no small task but is pulled off flawlessly with a bit of the actresses’ flair and exceptional on-screen chemistry. The development of Galinda and Elphaba’s relationship is a sight to see as it explores the interesting idea that the friendship between two people can exceed differences in their views. Elphaba and Galinda are two totally different characters starting from background and personality to political views. Even with their differences, the bond between the two always prevails creating a gripping story. Their friendship flies out of the screen, especially in a beautiful dance scene between the two. The relationship between the two lay the foundation for the story, making “Wicked” a more enjoyable watch when focusing on the two.
“Wicked” also dives into politics by taking a look at the controlling and authoritarian government of Oz. The government creates a common enemy of the people of Oz in order to unite them and have order. Oz’s government shows how a government could spread misinformation to masses in order to control them. However, I find this part to be less interesting as the political ideas formed in “Wicked” are most of the time generic and predictable. The film doesn’t really spend time on contemplating political dilemmas either creating a sense of unfinishedness to this idea.
On a technical level “Wicked” thrives as Chu masterfully displays her control over the world of Oz and sets inside the film. Actors interact with the set during musical numbers in fun ways that aren’t common in other musicals. Like in “Dancing Through Life” where the choreography utilizes the rotating library set to create a more memorable scene. Additionally, “Wicked” picks out costumes that help the audience get a grasp of who these characters are by characterizing them through color or style. A complaint I do have for this film is the color palette of the film. A poppy and flashy production like this would have been better conveyed if the colors were more vibrant like “Barbie” (2023).
Still, “Wicked” does not hold back its flashiness when it comes to the choreography. The choreographer, Christopher Scott, does a great job at bringing the energy with vibrant moves that can showcase the talents of Jonathan Bailey, who has a background in musical theater. Every actor’s moves are polished and harmonized. The effort that has been put into this production can be seen from leads to the ensemble. The score does not lack either as songs like “No One Mourns the Wicked” and “Defying Gravity” bring emotional highs and showcase the vocal talent of Grande and Erivo. The song “Popular”, one of the most famous songs from the musical, brings an infectious tune showing “Wicked”’s accessibility and catchiness in its score.
Overall, “Wicked” is an all around good movie and meets expectations in that it executes itself very well inside its medium and genre. It never felt as if the film was dragging even with its huge two hour 40 minute run time and I look forward to seeing the second part where it will continue to be great. “Wicked” would be a great introduction to musical films for people that aren't familiar with them but also be entertaining to avid musical enjoyers.
Wicked
Drama/Musical
160 Minutes
2024
Director
Jon M. Chu
Cast
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp
Ariana Grande-Butera as Galinda/Glinda Upland
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