Wicked: Part One, Jon M. Chu’s highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, brings the enchanting land of Oz to life on the silver screen. Based on the Tony-winning 2003 stage production, itself derived from Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the film serves as a prequel to L. Frank Baum’s timeless Oz series. This adaptation skillfully balances fidelity to its source material while introducing cinematic flair.
At its core, Wicked tells the origin story of Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned woman destined to become the Wicked Witch of the West. Through its rich narrative, the film explores themes of prejudice, friendship, and societal corruption, all wrapped in a spellbinding package of music, dance, and drama.
Director: Jon M. Chu
Cast: Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Peter Dinklage, Jeff Goldblum, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, and more.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Spoiler Alert: This review contains key plot details from Wicked.
The Plot: A Prequel With Heart
The movie opens with the birth of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a child marked by her emerald-green skin, which makes her a target of ridicule—even within her own family. Her mother’s rejection and the disdain of strangers establish her as an outcast early on.
The story quickly shifts to Elphaba’s time at the prestigious University of Shiz, where she meets Glinda (Ariana Grande), a bubbly and self-absorbed student destined to become the Good Witch. Their initial animosity gradually transforms into a deep friendship, cemented by their shared experiences and mutual respect.
This bond is tested when Fiyero Tigelaar (Jonathan Bailey), a charming prince, enters the picture. Torn between his attraction to Glinda and his growing feelings for Elphaba, Fiyero adds emotional depth to the narrative. His internal conflict underscores the societal prejudices that define relationships in Oz, making his character both relatable and endearing.
The plot is brought to life through dazzling acrobatics, soulful singing, and visually stunning set pieces, ensuring that audiences remain captivated from start to finish.
Performances: A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Jon M. Chu’s direction extracts mesmerizing performances from his ensemble cast, ensuring that the transition from stage to screen feels seamless. Each actor breathes new life into their roles, making the characters accessible to both longtime fans and newcomers.
- Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba: Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is a masterclass in balancing vulnerability and strength. Her soulful voice and nuanced acting make her journey from misunderstood outcast to powerful witch deeply moving.
- Ariana Grande as Glinda: Grande shines as Glinda, bringing a delightful mix of charm and depth to the character. Her background as a Disney star and her unparalleled vocal prowess make her the perfect fit for this enchanting role. Her pink ensembles and bubbly demeanor are a visual treat.
- Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero: Bailey’s performance as the conflicted prince is effortlessly captivating. His chemistry with both Erivo and Grande is electric, and his charm evokes the same admiration that audiences felt during his Bridgerton days.
Supporting cast members like Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible), Jeff Goldblum (The Wizard of Oz), and Peter Dinklage (Dr. Dillamond) add layers to the narrative, while Marissa Bode’s portrayal of Nessarose, Elphaba’s wheelchair-bound sister, deserves special mention for its emotional depth.
What Works for Wicked
Captivating Screenplay
Screenwriters Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox expertly adapt the complex and layered story into a 2-hour 40-minute runtime without losing its essence. The screenplay strikes a perfect balance between humor, emotion, and drama, ensuring that each scene feels essential to the overall narrative.
Themes of Friendship and Defiance
The heart of the film lies in the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda. Their relationship evolves beautifully, culminating in powerful moments of solidarity and acceptance. The themes of governmental corruption, power abuse, and societal conformity add a deeper layer of relevance, making the story resonate with contemporary audiences.
Visual and Musical Excellence
John Powell and Stephen Schwartz’s musical score is a standout, with 11 spellbinding songs that enhance the emotional impact of the narrative. The choreography, particularly in numbers like Dancing Through Life, is breathtaking, while Paul Tazewell’s costume design brings the world of Oz to vibrant life.
The ball sequence at the Ozdust Ballroom, where Elphaba and Glinda solidify their friendship, is a visual and emotional highlight. The scene where Glinda gently wipes away Elphaba’s tears encapsulates the film’s central message of acceptance and compassion.
What Could Be Better
While Wicked: Part One is a remarkable achievement, it is not without its shortcomings:
- Predictable Plot: Given that the film is based on well-known source material, some viewers may find the story too familiar. The decision to split the adaptation into two parts also risks diluting the narrative impact.
- Underwhelming Cinematography: Despite its visual splendor, the cinematography could have been more colorful and immersive, particularly for a film set in the fantastical world of Oz.
- Musical Overload: While the songs are undeniably beautiful, the film’s musical tone might feel excessive to some, especially for audiences unfamiliar with the Broadway original.
A Bold Adaptation: Director’s Vision
Jon M. Chu deserves immense credit for bringing Wicked to life with such care and creativity. His direction ensures that the film remains faithful to its Broadway roots while leveraging the strengths of cinema. Chu’s ability to balance intimate character moments with grand set pieces is commendable, making Wicked: Part One a cinematic experience worth savoring.
Final Verdict
Wicked: Part One is a dazzling tribute to its Broadway origins, enriched by stellar performances, a compelling narrative, and visually stunning set pieces. While the decision to split the story into two parts may divide opinions, the first installment lays a strong foundation for what promises to be an epic conclusion.
With its themes of friendship, defiance, and self-discovery, Wicked is more than just a musical—it’s a celebration of resilience and individuality. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s performances alone make it a must-watch, and the film’s rich storytelling ensures that it will leave a lasting impression.
If you’re a fan of the musical or simply looking for a visually striking and emotionally resonant film, Wicked: Part One is a journey you won’t want to miss. Catch it in theatres starting November 22, and prepare to be spellbound.