Wicked: The magical movie musical fans have been waiting for

Wicked is here to stay and slay at the same time. The newest Hollywood release has wowed fans across the globe and defeated Ridley Scott's much-anticipated Gladiator II at the box office. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the film reimagines The Wizard of Oz from the perspectives of two iconic characters: Elphaba and Glinda.

It delves into Elphaba’s backstory, a misunderstood green-skinned woman fighting for animal rights in Oz, and how she met Glinda, who evolved into a powerful ally. This compelling exploration of friendship and individuality is what makes Wicked an unforgettable cinematic experience.

What Makes Wicked Great:

1. Strong Performances and Emotional Depth: One of the film's highlights is the performances, particularly from the lead actresses Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda). Their chemistry is electric, especially in scenes where their contrasting personalities clash yet complement each other, creating a nuanced portrayal of their friendship. This emotional depth is amplified in their musical performances, with Erivo’s 'Defying Gravity' being particularly breathtaking.

2. Stunning Music and Choreography: The music, which includes classic songs like Defying Gravity, Popular, and One Short Day, is a vital part of what made the Broadway show so famous—and the film does not disappoint. Many of the musical numbers were performed live, adding authenticity and energy to the performances. The choreography is masterfully executed, especially during the 'Dancing Through Life' sequence.

3. Visual Magic: The world of Oz is brought to life visually spectacularly. From the dazzling Emerald City to the vibrant landscapes, every detail immerses viewers in Oz’s wonder, drawing them deeper into the story’s magic. The costumes and special effects are top-notch, making the entire experience feel immersive.

What Doesn’t Work:

1. Underwhelming Villains: While the heroes shine, the villains fall flat. Jeff Goldblum’s Wizard lacks the charisma and authority needed to make him a compelling antagonist, while Michelle Yeoh’s Madame Morrible, though visually striking, feels underdeveloped and too restrained to convey real menace.

2. The Pacing: At nearly 3 hours, the movie might feel long to some viewers. While the extended runtime provides richer character development, the slower pace may test some viewers’ patience in quieter moments. However, this slower pace also allows for a richer understanding of the characters and their motivations, which makes the emotional payoff more rewarding.

Final Thoughts:

Wicked is a captivating start to a two-part film series. The music, performances, and visuals make it an enchanting experience, especially for fans of the original Broadway show. While the villains are not as compelling as they could be, the leads more than makeup for it.

Fans of the musical can rest assured this adaptation honors the spirit of the original while introducing it to a new generation. It successfully blends fantasy with heartfelt moments, giving audiences a deeper look at the characters from The Wizard of Oz. If you’re unfamiliar with the story, don’t worry—the film explains everything well and is a fantastic introduction to the world of Oz.

If you enjoy Broadway musicals or love magical, emotionally charged stories, Wicked is worth seeing. The wait for the second part will be long, but fans of the show can rest assured that this adaptation honors the spirit of the original while making it accessible for a new generation.

Wicked is a must-watch—a soaring start to this epic musical journey. Don’t miss it!