The highly awaited Wicked film was premiered this past November in theaters, starring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba.
Prior to the release of the film, the original Broadway production of Wicked was presented first in 2003 with Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda and Idina Menzel as Elphaba– two major actresses prior to their roles.
Wicked is the sequel to The Wizard of Oz. Not only this, but this was only part one of the release of Wicked; part two will be released in November 2025.
Wicked takes place in the Land of Oz, an enchanting fictional country, where two contradictory soon-to-be witches – Elphaba and Glinda – unexpectedly become best friends. Elphaba was born with unique green skin, while her roommate Glinda is a “perfect blonde.”
At Shiz University, Elphaba and Glinda have no choice but to become roommates. Even though in the beginning, they hold grudges against each other due to their differences, they create a bond like no other throughout their time together.
Mouths were dropped when the word got out that Wicked was coming out as a film. After decades of anticipation, the film was created with a whopping budget of $145-150 million.
I am jaw dropped by the live singing throughout the entire movie. The strength and voice it takes to repetitively belt out over 10 songs is above impressive.
Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) sang one of the most popular Wicked songs while she was flying upside down on a broomstick – insane. In one of her interviews, she even said that singing Defying Gravity was not the hardest songs she has sung, which again, displays the vigor she has.
Additionally, a wide variety of trends have sparked on TikTok from the release of Wicked.
You may have seen the funny lip-syncing videos or the recreation of the dances – especially the use of songs, interviews, and lines from the movie.
To be honest, I would not change a lot about the film. I think the sets were outstanding, the casting was spot-on, and the songs bring out the strengths in all actors.
However, the one thing I wish was different was the length. Two hours and 40 minutes is a really long time sitting – and it’s just part one! For me, I don’t have a lot of time to sit and watch a three-hour movie, so I would prefer a shorter version.
There are a few scenes in the movie that seem unnecessary and take up time that could have been cut. For example, the dance scene at the ball where Glinda becomes one with Elphaba dragged on longer than needed.
Personally, I saw the film front-row 3D (the only seats left), which was definitely fun. While it was unique having the movie in my face, it was not the best choice because it warped the screen slightly and strained my eyes after the second hour.
Wicked was a great movie. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo were outstanding throughout the whole movie with their acting, dancing, connection with characters, and above, all singing.
