Movie Review: Wicked
Have you ever wondered what made the Wicked Witch of the West so… wicked? Wicked takes us back to Oz, but this time, we’re not following Dorothy. Instead, we dive into the story of Elphaba, the green-skinned girl who’s misunderstood, and her unlikely friendship with Glinda, the bubbly and glamorous Good Witch. It’s a story that flips everything you think you know about good and evil in Oz.
The Story:
The movie pulls us right into the heart of Elphaba and Glinda’s journey. It starts with their early days at school—Elphaba being mocked for her green skin and magical powers, and Glinda, well, being the queen bee. But their rivalry turns into an unexpected friendship. What’s great is how the movie shows both of them growing and changing. Elphaba becomes this fierce, determined woman standing up for what’s right, while Glinda learns that life isn’t all about popularity and sparkle.
And then there’s the Wizard, who’s not quite the kindly old man you might remember. His manipulations add a layer of intrigue to the story, making you question who’s really wicked in this tale.
The Cast:
The performances are nothing short of magical. Elphaba is played with so much heart and power (Cynthia Erivo brings depth to her vulnerability and strength), and Glinda’s bubbly charm is perfectly balanced with moments of real emotion (Ariana Grande shows surprising nuance). They bring their characters to life in a way that makes you root for both of them, even when they’re on opposite sides.
Visuals and Direction:
Jon M. Chu has a knack for creating jaw-dropping visuals, and he doesn’t disappoint here. The world of Oz is vibrant and immersive, with stunning landscapes, spellbinding magical effects, and darker, more emotional tones for Elphaba’s journey. The flying scenes—especially that iconic moment in Defying Gravity—are breathtaking. You’ll feel like you’re right there, soaring with her.
The Music:
If you loved the stage musical, you’ll be thrilled to hear the iconic songs like Defying Gravity and Popular brought to life on screen. Stephen Schwartz’s music still gives you chills, and the cinematic arrangements make the songs feel even bigger. Plus, there are some new songs that add fresh emotion and depth to the story.
What Makes It Special:
At its core, Wicked is about friendship, identity, and challenging what the world tells us about good and evil. It’s a story that reminds us to look beyond appearances and stereotypes. Elphaba’s journey is especially inspiring—standing up for what’s right, even when it makes her an outcast.
Final Thoughts:
Wicked is a visually stunning and emotionally rich film that will resonate with fans of the musical and newcomers alike. It’s funny, heartfelt, and packed with moments that will stick with you long after the credits roll. Whether you’re there for the music, the visuals, or the deeper themes, this movie is a must-watch.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)