*Wicked (2024)* transforms the legendary Broadway musical into a sweeping cinematic spectacle, blending vibrant visuals, emotional ballads, and magical world-building. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this film adaptation plunges deep into Oz's untold story—before Dorothy dropped in—focusing on friendship, identity, and rebellion.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande star as Elphaba and Glinda, two witches from opposite walks of life whose bond challenges the politics of their magical world. Equal parts emotional and enchanting, *Wicked* presents a powerful prequel to *The Wizard of Oz*, rich in color, depth, and defiance.
Plot Summary
The story begins at Shiz University, where Elphaba—a misunderstood green-skinned girl with extraordinary powers—meets Glinda, a popular and ambitious student. Though their personalities clash at first, they develop an unlikely friendship that becomes central to the narrative.
As they rise through Oz’s social and magical circles, both women face decisions that test their values. When Elphaba discovers the dark truths behind the Wizard’s regime, she chooses to stand against it, earning her the label of the “Wicked Witch.” Meanwhile, Glinda grapples with ambition and guilt, ultimately becoming the "Good Witch." Their diverging paths raise questions about power, propaganda, and personal truth.
Character Analysis
Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo)
A fiercely intelligent, justice-driven outcast who evolves from a misunderstood student to a powerful force challenging the status quo. Erivo brings intense emotion and vocal brilliance to the role.
Glinda (Ariana Grande)
Charming, privileged, and initially shallow, Glinda’s arc reveals a woman torn between public approval and personal loyalty. Grande captures both comedic timing and heartfelt nuance.
The Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum)
Charismatic and manipulative, the Wizard uses illusion and charm to maintain control. Goldblum’s performance walks the line between fatherly warmth and political menace.
Themes and Messages
| Theme | Description |
|---|---|
| Friendship and Rivalry | The heart of the film lies in Elphaba and Glinda’s evolving bond and the tension between personal loyalty and public duty. |
| Prejudice and Perception | Wicked questions how society labels people as "good" or "evil" based on fear, appearance, and misinformation. |
| Corruption and Control | The Wizard's rise highlights the dangers of populism and illusion in maintaining power over truth. |
| Self-Discovery | Elphaba’s journey is ultimately about embracing her identity and standing firm despite societal rejection. |
Cinematography and Direction
Jon M. Chu brings his musical expertise to the screen with dazzling set designs, sweeping crane shots, and emotionally immersive close-ups. The Emerald City sparkles with opulence while the dark forests reflect Elphaba’s isolation. The transitions between musical numbers and narrative moments feel seamless, keeping the pace engaging.
Performances
Cynthia Erivo: A powerhouse performance—both vocally and emotionally. Her rendition of “Defying Gravity” is a cinematic high point.
Ariana Grande: Surprises with a performance that grows stronger as Glinda matures. Her comedic beats shine, and her duet scenes carry genuine pathos.
Jeff Goldblum: Balances charm and menace with flair, adding depth to a usually one-dimensional villain.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised *Wicked (2024)* for its ambitious scope and faithful adaptation of the beloved stage production. The visuals, costume design, and lead performances received near-universal acclaim. Some minor criticism targeted the slightly compressed storytelling in translating a multi-act play into a single film, but most agreed it retained the musical’s soul.
Controversial Opinions
Some fans were skeptical about Ariana Grande’s casting as Glinda but were ultimately won over by her portrayal. Others felt the film leaned heavily into spectacle, occasionally sacrificing intimacy. The division of the story into two parts (with the second film scheduled for 2025) drew mixed reactions, with some calling it a smart choice and others seeing it as commercial bloat.
FAQs
- Is *Wicked (2024)* based on the Broadway musical?
Yes, it’s a direct adaptation of Stephen Schwartz’s Broadway hit, which itself was adapted from Gregory Maguire’s novel. - Does it include all the original songs?
Most of the iconic numbers remain, including “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” and “For Good.” - Is the movie split into two parts?
Yes, this 2024 release is Part One. Part Two is scheduled for 2025. - How is the chemistry between Erivo and Grande?
Their chemistry anchors the film. It’s heartfelt, believable, and elevates the emotional stakes. - Is *Wicked* suitable for children?
Yes, though younger children may struggle with the political and emotional themes. PG-rated. - How long is the film?
Around 2 hours and 15 minutes for Part One. - What makes this adaptation unique?
Its high production value, stellar casting, and thoughtful modernization of a beloved classic. - Will there be any surprises for musical fans?
Yes—some new visual elements and re-imagined transitions breathe cinematic life into iconic moments. - Is this a prequel to *The Wizard of Oz*?
Yes, it tells the backstory of the witches and reinterprets the events leading up to Dorothy’s arrival in Oz. - Does it live up to the hype?
For fans of the musical and newcomers alike, *Wicked (2024)* is a magical, emotional ride worth taking.