Movie review: Wicked

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Part one of Jon M. Chu’s Wicked enchants as an ambitious and visually dazzling adaptation of the beloved stage musical. 

While the decision to split the story into two films may raise eyebrows, the movie ultimately delivers a spellbinding experience. With captivating performances from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande alongside striking production design, Wicked balances its high-energy charm with emotional depth and timely themes, making it a magical cinematic journey.

If, like me, you haven’t had the chance to experience Wicked on stage but have watched YouTube clips of Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel starring in the production’s lead roles, you might approach the film with tempered expectations. After all, adapting a musical that has earned its place as the second-highest-grossing Broadway show of all time is no small feat.

This skepticism feels further justified when you consider the Wicked movie’s hefty runtime of two hours and 40 minutes and the controversial decision to have two films.

However, minutes into watching the film, these doubts begin to fade and are instead replaced by sheer awe. Chu’s Wicked successfully combines the grandeur of Broadway with the emotional resonance of cinema.

To catch those unfamiliar with the musical up to speed, Wicked reimagines The Wizard of Oz from the perspective of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. Based on Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, the film dives into the backstory of two young witches — Elphaba, who is played by Erivo, and Glinda (née Galinda), who is played by Grande — as they navigate friendship, rivalry, and societal pressures at Shiz University.

Think Mean Girls meets Hogwarts, where the mischievous dynamics of student life meet a curriculum steeped in magic. While Elphaba grapples with being an outcast due to her green skin, Glinda revels in popularity, setting the stage for their eventual transformations into two of Oz’s most iconic figures.

Erivo shines as Elphaba, infusing the character with a mix of vulnerability and strength. Her rich, soulful voice conveys the weight of rejection and loneliness, making moments like “Defying Gravity” soar both musically and emotionally.

Grande, meanwhile, dazzles as Glinda, delivering a performance that’s equal parts comedic and endearing. Her extensive vocal range paired with impeccable comedic timing ensures that every flounce and hair toss lands as a perfectly crafted punchline.

Together, Erivo and Grande’s chemistry feels authentic and carries the film’s emotional core.

Visually, Wicked is a feast for the eyes. The initially clashing aesthetics of Elphaba’s earthy green and Glinda’s saccharine pink gradually harmonize as their relationship deepens. Production designer Nathan Crowley creates a lush, immersive world, from mossy forest landscapes to opulent university halls.

Standout scenes, such as a serenely magical forest sequence, showcase the meticulous craftsmanship of Crowley and cinematographer Alice Brooks. The musical numbers, choreographed by Christopher Scott, are equally spectacular, particularly one frenetic library dance sequence featuring Jonathan Bailey as the vain but charming Prince Fiyero.

Bailey, best known for starring in Bridgerton, steals every scene he’s in, bringing a roguish charisma to Fiyero. His chemistry with both leads adds an extra layer of intrigue, and his dynamic dance number is one of the film’s highlights. Meanwhile, Michelle Yeoh’s portrayal of Madame Morrible brings an icy elegance to the film, her imposing presence anchoring the story’s darker elements.

Yet, Wicked isn’t flawless. At times, the film’s reliance on a CGI spectacle detracts from its emotional beats, and the pacing could benefit from tighter editing, especially given its runtime slightly exceeds the entire stage production. These moments, however, are fleeting. The film’s heart and charm consistently pull it back on course.

Ultimately, Wicked is a triumph. It doesn’t just promise escapism, it delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the corrupting influence of power.

By the time Elphaba takes to the skies on her broomstick, viewers are firmly caught in her slipstream, eager for the second half of the story. With its blend of spectacle, soul, and a touch of darkness, Wicked casts a spell that lingers long after the credits roll.