Film Review: Wicked Brings Broadway Magic to the Big Screen
By Corbin Johnson
I finally had the chance to watch Wicked. After seeing the film, I found myself eager to experience the Broadway production, which I’ve heard is electrifying when seen live.
Wicked stars Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. It tells the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and Glinda the Good Witch—yes, for those wondering, this is a Wizard of Oz prequel. The film explores their journeys, friendships, and the life-changing events that ultimately shape their destinies.
The performances in Wicked are nothing short of phenomenal. Cynthia Erivo shines as Elphaba, delivering emotionally charged scenes, particularly in her moments with Glinda. Her powerhouse vocals vibrate with intensity, bringing a fresh and deeply moving essence to the role. Erivo’s portrayal differs from the Broadway adaptation, making Elphaba feel unique and multi-dimensional. She has you crying with her, laughing with her, and rooting for her every step of the way.
Jonathan Bailey, as Fiyero, brings charisma and intrigue, especially in his interactions with Elphaba. His scenes are captivating and add depth to the romantic tension within the story.
Ariana Grande’s performance as Glinda is another standout. While many know her from Victorious, Grande fully disappears into the role, showcasing strong comedic timing and an effortlessly charming presence. Glinda is quirky, self-centered, and naive, yet her development throughout the film makes her an engaging character. Her initial rivalry with Elphaba—driven by prejudice—gradually transforms into a heartfelt friendship as they realize how much they have in common.
Jon M. Chu, best known for Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, directs the film with breathtaking visuals and masterful storytelling. The world of Oz is brought to life with vibrant colors, seamless CGI, and vast, immersive sets that match the tone of each musical number.
Chu’s camerawork and pacing keep the film engaging, ensuring that audiences remain captivated from start to finish. Every shot is meticulously crafted, making Oz feel as magical as ever. Whether it’s the dazzling costumes, striking set designs, or detailed visual effects, Wicked pulls viewers into its whimsical yet emotionally rich world.
With a stellar cast, eye-popping visuals, and an unforgettable soundtrack, Wicked stands out as one of the must-see Oscar-nominated films of the year. Its exploration of friendship, prejudice, and destiny makes it more than just a musical—it’s a film that sparks conversations.
The ending leaves viewers eager for the next installment, setting the stage for the continuation of the story. If you’re impatient, you can dive into the books that inspired the musical and film. But for those willing to wait, there’s plenty to speculate about before we return to Oz to see where our beloved characters end up next.
