I first read The Wonderful Wizard of Oz as a child, and the story was one of my favourites which I always returned to from time to time - and in my teens I discovered Wicked.
I read the Gregory Macguire books and it was then at about 15 or so, I discovered that a character is not black and white, or green or pink if you like - that everyone is nuanced with different backgrounds and motivations.
For the benefit of those who haven't seen the show, which premiered on Broadway in 2003 and has been running ever since, it's a spin-off of L Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which delves into the back story of Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.
It begins near the end of the classic 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz, with the Wicked Witch having been dissolved by water splashed on her by Dorothy.
I am a huge fan, suffice to say. So, when I heard about the film adaptation. I was...worried.
When I heard Ariana Grande was Glinda, I was very worried. I didn’t know much about Cynthia Erivo. I knew she had solid stage experience but, still.
Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel are practically legends of Broadway and their portrayals of these roles are iconic. Could anyone top their performance?
As any avid reader will tell you, book to movie adaptions can really disappoint. Often directors destroy a book or a previous adaptation, in making their film.
I approached the movie with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. However, from the moment the opening notes of the score filled the cinema, I knew I was in for a magical experience that would resonate deeply in my heart.
There are movies that come to mark your soul, and Wicked is one of them. From the first minutes, its magic enveloped me completely, taking me on an endless emotional journey.
Director Jon M. Chu proves to be a true master, managing to capture the essence of this story with a genius sensitivity and talent. Each shot, every detail, every song and every scene is a testimony to his deep understanding of this beloved work, you can tell that he really enjoyed telling the story and bringing it to the big screen.
This film beautifully captures the essence of friendship, love, and the complexity of identity. It brings to life the rich tapestry of Oz in a way that feels both fresh and familiar. The cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking, with vibrant colors and stunning landscapes that transport you to a world where magic is not just an illusion but a palpable force that shapes destinies.
The spectacular performance from the cast is truly the heart of this adaptation. The chemistry between Elphaba and Glinda is electric, anchoring the narrative with a bond that feels both profound and relatable.
The actors bring depth to their characters, showcasing their vulnerabilities and strengths in a way that resonates with anyone who has ever felt misunderstood or out of place. Their singing voices soar, and each musical number is a highlight that leave the audience both enchanted and moved to tears.
The screenplay deftly balances humour and heartache, reminding us that every person’s journey is filled with challenges, growth, and moments of triumph.
Cynthia Erivo playing Elphaba, was impressive. With every look and gesture, Cynthia transmitted all the complexity and vulnerability of this powerful character. Her acting was simply spectacular to watch.
Now Ariana was a complete surprise, to me she really embodied Glinda in every way. Her saccharine sweetness combined with her charisma gives real comic shape to Glinda’s popular-girl frivolity. She also pokes fun at her own terrific vocal range, tossing errant high notes into simple statements throughout the movie.
Both actresses have an indescribable chemistry, creating moments that tear your heart and others that make you laugh out loud.
The supporting cast, including Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum, are all exceptional in their respective roles, bringing this ensemble together seamlessly.
This movie is not just a story; it's a life lesson. Wicked teaches us something that we all need to remember, that we must love ourselves and stay true to our essence.Because when you stay true to yourself, when you embrace who you are, nothing and no one can ever bring you down.
I truly cannot recommend this film enough—it is a transformative experience. I left the cinema with lots of feelings and swollen eyes but with a big smile and the certainty that Wicked is an absolute magical masterpiece in its genre.
However just a little warning : while the film successfully captures the musical’s grandiosity and emotional beats, it occasionally falters in its pacing and storytelling cohesion.
For non-fans the pace can be dragging and ultimately the brightly coloured world of Oz can test one’s patience in understanding all the backstories and characters that shape the Oz universe.
But do yourself a favor: see Wicked in cinemas and immerse yourself in its cinematic brilliance. Especially more so if you’re a fan. If you’re not this film might convert you.
You won’t regret it.
I read the Gregory Macguire books and it was then at about 15 or so, I discovered that a character is not black and white, or green or pink if you like - that everyone is nuanced with different backgrounds and motivations.
For the benefit of those who haven't seen the show, which premiered on Broadway in 2003 and has been running ever since, it's a spin-off of L Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which delves into the back story of Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.
It begins near the end of the classic 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz, with the Wicked Witch having been dissolved by water splashed on her by Dorothy.
I am a huge fan, suffice to say. So, when I heard about the film adaptation. I was...worried.
When I heard Ariana Grande was Glinda, I was very worried. I didn’t know much about Cynthia Erivo. I knew she had solid stage experience but, still.
Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel are practically legends of Broadway and their portrayals of these roles are iconic. Could anyone top their performance?
As any avid reader will tell you, book to movie adaptions can really disappoint. Often directors destroy a book or a previous adaptation, in making their film.
I approached the movie with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. However, from the moment the opening notes of the score filled the cinema, I knew I was in for a magical experience that would resonate deeply in my heart.
There are movies that come to mark your soul, and Wicked is one of them. From the first minutes, its magic enveloped me completely, taking me on an endless emotional journey.
Director Jon M. Chu proves to be a true master, managing to capture the essence of this story with a genius sensitivity and talent. Each shot, every detail, every song and every scene is a testimony to his deep understanding of this beloved work, you can tell that he really enjoyed telling the story and bringing it to the big screen.
This film beautifully captures the essence of friendship, love, and the complexity of identity. It brings to life the rich tapestry of Oz in a way that feels both fresh and familiar. The cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking, with vibrant colors and stunning landscapes that transport you to a world where magic is not just an illusion but a palpable force that shapes destinies.
The spectacular performance from the cast is truly the heart of this adaptation. The chemistry between Elphaba and Glinda is electric, anchoring the narrative with a bond that feels both profound and relatable.
The actors bring depth to their characters, showcasing their vulnerabilities and strengths in a way that resonates with anyone who has ever felt misunderstood or out of place. Their singing voices soar, and each musical number is a highlight that leave the audience both enchanted and moved to tears.
The screenplay deftly balances humour and heartache, reminding us that every person’s journey is filled with challenges, growth, and moments of triumph.
Cynthia Erivo playing Elphaba, was impressive. With every look and gesture, Cynthia transmitted all the complexity and vulnerability of this powerful character. Her acting was simply spectacular to watch.
Now Ariana was a complete surprise, to me she really embodied Glinda in every way. Her saccharine sweetness combined with her charisma gives real comic shape to Glinda’s popular-girl frivolity. She also pokes fun at her own terrific vocal range, tossing errant high notes into simple statements throughout the movie.
Both actresses have an indescribable chemistry, creating moments that tear your heart and others that make you laugh out loud.
The supporting cast, including Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum, are all exceptional in their respective roles, bringing this ensemble together seamlessly.
This movie is not just a story; it's a life lesson. Wicked teaches us something that we all need to remember, that we must love ourselves and stay true to our essence.Because when you stay true to yourself, when you embrace who you are, nothing and no one can ever bring you down.
I truly cannot recommend this film enough—it is a transformative experience. I left the cinema with lots of feelings and swollen eyes but with a big smile and the certainty that Wicked is an absolute magical masterpiece in its genre.
However just a little warning : while the film successfully captures the musical’s grandiosity and emotional beats, it occasionally falters in its pacing and storytelling cohesion.
For non-fans the pace can be dragging and ultimately the brightly coloured world of Oz can test one’s patience in understanding all the backstories and characters that shape the Oz universe.
But do yourself a favor: see Wicked in cinemas and immerse yourself in its cinematic brilliance. Especially more so if you’re a fan. If you’re not this film might convert you.
You won’t regret it.