Jon M. Chu’s "Wicked" is a dazzling cinematic spectacle that brings the beloved Broadway musical to life with breathtaking visuals and powerhouse performances.
As someone who has only experienced the magic of Wicked from afar, I was eager to see how the film adaptation would translate on the big screen. And let me tell you, it exceeded all of my expectations.
The film centers on the complex relationship between Elphaba Thropp, a misunderstood and powerful witch with green skin, and Glinda Upland, a bubbly and popular sorceress. This is a prequel to the beloved tale of "The Wizard of Oz".
When it was first announced that Ariana Grande would be casted as Glinda, many people were skeptical. Could a pop star truly capture the essence of a beloved character like Glinda? Little did those skeptics know that Grande was born to play this role. Her performance was nothing short of magical and see stole some of the scenes in my opinion. She effortlessly embodies the character’s bubbly personality. Her vocal performance is stunning, not a surprise. Garnde and Ervio’s on-screen chemistry is undeniable. Grande silenced the doubters. In fact, her performance was so well received that she is a high contender in snatching that Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.
Now let’s talk about Cynthis Ervio’s soulful voice in this film. Ervio delivers a powerhouse performance as Elphaba. Her powerful and emotive performance is captivating, yet heartbreaking. Her vocals are simply extraordinary, and her rendition of “Defying Gravity” is the highlight of the film. Ervio’s ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from anger and frustration to vulnerability and love, is truly impressive.
The film’s exploration of themes such as prejudice, identity, and the power of female friendships is as relevant today as ever. The marginalization and misunderstanding of Elphaba resonates with people of all ages.
The film's spectacle is equally impressive. The vibrant colors, intricate costumes, and stunning set designs transported me to the magical world of Oz. Each frame was a fest for the eyes, capturing the essence of the original stage production while adding a cinematic flair. However, just as a friendly warning, the film has a 2-hour and 40-minute runtime. But, I got so immersed in the world of Oz it felt real and felt like a place I never wanted to leave. Jonathan Bailey, who played Fiyero, was also amazing in his role, he had such good chemistry with the other characters. Other supporting casts include Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater, and Jeff Goldblum.
In conclusion, “WIcked” is a must see for both fans of the stage production and newcomers alike. It’s visually stunning, emotionally resonate, and a truly magical cinematic experience.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Director: Jon M. Chu
Screenplay: Winnie Holzman & Dana Fox
Based on: Wicked the musical by Stephen Schwartz & Winnie Holzman, Wicked the novel by Gregory Maguire
Produced by: Marc Platt & David Stone
Executive Producers: Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox, Jared LeBoff, & David Nicksay
Cinematography: Alice Brooks
Composers: John Powell & Stephen Schwartz
Production Companies: Universal Pictures & Marc Platt Productions
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Runtime: 160 minutes
Rating: PG
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