Bringing an immensely beloved musical to the screen is a daunting task, yet the film adaptation of “Wicked” exceeds cinematic expectations.
This epic fantasy directed by Jon M. Chu could have easily been another hit-or-miss stage-to-screen musical. Instead, it honors the original’s musicality while expanding the magical land of Oz.
“Wicked,” the prequel to the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz,” follows Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo), who is ostracized for her green skin. She forms an unlikely sisterhood with the effortlessly popular Glinda Upland (Ariana Grande), but their bond is tested by an unexpected encounter with the Wizard.
Having endured lifelong mistreatment, Elphaba’s peculiar appearance frightens students at Shiz University. While merely escorting her disabled sister Nessarose to school, a confrontation with staff causes Elphaba to lose her temper, unconsciously shattering objects around her.
Headmistress Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) witnesses this supernatural display and offers Elphaba private tutoring to control her powers, while rejecting Glinda’s bid for the same opportunity. Glinda’s muttered response, “Something is very wrong, I didn’t get my way,” signals the brewing rivalry.
As reluctant roommates, Elphaba and Glinda’s bitter quarrel culminates in “What is This Feeling?” The number reveals Erivo and Grande’s palpable chemistry and outstanding harmonies. The subsequent musical sequences dazzle with well-produced choreography, seamlessly interwoven with dialogue—avoiding the clumsy transitions that plague many musical productions.
The witches’ relationship shifts during a ballroom party where Elphaba becomes a laughingstock wearing what becomes her iconic witch hat—initially given by Glinda in mockery. Moved by guilt and empathy, Glinda embraces Elphaba, dissolving their built-up tension.
Erivo’s Elphaba defies stereotypes. Though discriminated against for her skin color, she transcends victimhood. Her portrayal is soft-spoken yet commanding, sensitive yet self-assured. Grande disappears into Glinda, delivering spot-on hair tosses, delightful comedic timing, and operatic prowess—memorably hanging from a chandelier during “Popular.”
Jonathan Bailey brings charm to Winkie prince Fiyero Tigelaar. Though limited by the traditional love triangle plot, Bailey’s magnetism shines, particularly in “Dancing Through Life.”
The narrative darkens when the witches confront the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and discover his role in Oz’s animal suppression. Elphaba’s shocking betrayal culminates in a levitation spell—marking her transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West. Yeoh’s Madame Morrible proves more compelling as an antagonist than Goldblum, especially when denouncing Elphaba as “wicked.”
The emotional crescendo arrives in “Defying Gravity,” where Glinda reveals vulnerability beneath her “dumb blonde” exterior as she bids farewell to her rebellious friend. The masterfully segmented duet emphasizes their layered emotions.
Erivo’s finale showcases powerhouse vocals and emotional depth, portraying Elphaba’s righteous persistence despite betrayal. She concludes the first part of this two-part film with forceful determination, making the sequel not just necessary but eagerly anticipated.
“Wicked” opens in cinemas nationwide on November 20.
