Review of Wicked (2024)

The long-awaited adaptation of the Broadway sensation Wicked finally takes flight in this dazzling 2024 cinematic event. Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked brings Gregory Maguire’s reimagining of The Wizard of Oz to life on the big screen, complete with spellbinding visuals, powerful performances, and a reimagined soundtrack that honors its stage origins while embracing the possibilities of film. It’s an enchanting spectacle that explores themes of identity, friendship, and the nature of good and evil.

A Story of Friendship and Betrayal

Wicked delves into the untold story of the witches of Oz, focusing on the relationship between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande). Elphaba, born with green skin and ostracized for her differences, grows up to become the infamous Wicked Witch of the West. Glinda, on the other hand, ascends to fame and adoration as the Good Witch. The film chronicles their intertwined destinies, from their initial rivalry as students at Shiz University to their deep bond and eventual estrangement as their paths diverge.

Through their evolving relationship, Wicked examines themes of prejudice, ambition, and the power of choice. The narrative challenges traditional notions of morality, revealing the complexities behind the characters we thought we knew.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Shine

Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is nothing short of extraordinary. Her commanding presence and emotionally charged performance breathe life into the misunderstood witch, capturing both her vulnerability and her fierce determination. Erivo’s powerhouse vocals elevate iconic songs like “Defying Gravity” and “No Good Deed” to breathtaking new heights, delivering moments of pure cinematic magic.

Ariana Grande’s Glinda is a delightful counterpart, blending charm, humor, and depth in her portrayal of the bubbly yet conflicted witch. Grande’s rendition of “Popular” is as effervescent as fans could hope for, while her quieter moments showcase a nuanced performance that underscores Glinda’s internal struggles.

The chemistry between Erivo and Grande is the beating heart of the film, making their friendship and eventual fallout deeply affecting. Their performances ground the fantastical story in raw emotion, ensuring that audiences are as invested in their journey as they are in the spectacle.

A Visual Spectacle

Jon M. Chu’s direction transforms the world of Oz into a vibrant, immersive realm that feels both familiar and fresh. From the opulent Emerald City to the foreboding forests, every location is meticulously crafted to transport viewers into this magical universe. The film’s visual effects and production design are nothing short of spectacular, striking a balance between whimsy and grandeur.

The costume design, helmed by Paul Tazewell, deserves special mention. Each character’s wardrobe reflects their personality and evolution, with Elphaba’s iconic black ensemble and Glinda’s shimmering gowns serving as standout examples of storytelling through fashion.

A Reimagined Soundtrack

The film’s music, adapted by Stephen Schwartz and orchestrated for the screen, retains the heart of the original Broadway score while embracing the cinematic medium. Songs like “For Good” and “The Wizard and I” are given new arrangements that amplify their emotional resonance, while the expanded score includes moments of instrumental brilliance that deepen the storytelling.

The choreography and staging of musical numbers are equally impressive, with each song serving as a visual and auditory feast. The film’s climactic “Defying Gravity” sequence is a triumph of direction, performance, and special effects, leaving audiences awestruck.

Themes That Resonate

At its core, Wicked is a story about identity and the power of perception. It challenges the idea of binary morality, asking whether the labels of “good” and “evil” truly capture the complexities of human nature. The film’s exploration of systemic prejudice and societal expectations feels particularly timely, offering a poignant commentary on the ways we judge and define one another.

The friendship between Elphaba and Glinda serves as a reminder of the transformative power of empathy and understanding. Their journey underscores the importance of standing by one’s principles, even in the face of adversity, and the cost of choosing conformity over authenticity.

Conclusion: A Triumph of Adaptation

Wicked (2024) is a triumphant adaptation that captures the magic of the Broadway original while reimagining it for a new audience. With stellar performances, breathtaking visuals, and a timeless story, the film is both a love letter to fans of the musical and an accessible entry point for newcomers.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver career-defining performances, supported by a visionary creative team that brings the world of Oz to life in ways that are as moving as they are mesmerizing. Wicked is a must-see cinematic experience that will leave audiences inspired, enchanted, and humming its unforgettable melodies long after the credits roll.