Wicked is the musical tale of two friends pushed toward their destinies. In the land of Oz, citizens rejoice. As Glinda the Good Witch (Araina Grande) confirms to Munchkinland: the Wicked Witch of the West aka Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) is dead. In the wake of her demise, the people ask Glinda: “is it true you were friends?” This simple inquiry gives Glinda pause as she recalls her history with Elphaba. Glinda remembers encountering Elphaba at Shiz University, where both had dreams of becoming great sorcerers. Upon their first meeting, the two sparked a great animosity between them. However, over time, they recognize their own misperceptions about each other. Eventually, Glinda and Elphaba grow close as they learn more about the happenings within Oz, and more importantly—the secrets the reigning Wonderful Wizard may be keeping.
What works in Wicked is just about everything. To call Wicked a dazzling spectacle might be an understatement. Director Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights) not only adapts the acclaimed Broadway musical, but also finds ways to improve upon on it. Chu leverages the power of the cinematic medium to an incredible degree. For example, Chu relies on several close-up shots which allow Grande and Erivo to showcase their fantastic acting talent. Their expressions and reactions give Glinda and Elphaba incredible depth and complexity. On top of that, the production design, editing, costumes, hair, and makeup are nothing short of spectacular. With brightly lit practical sets, the world of Oz comes to life in a way never before seen. All this sets the stage for the heart of the film—the musical performances. Simply put: they will give you the best kind of chills.
RELATED: New Wicked Trailer Narrated From Glinda’s Perspective
People with an aversion to musical theater may not be converted by Wicked. Everything quintessential about Broadway is on full display. If you tend to roll your eyes when characters randomly break out into song and fully choreographed dances, this may not be for you. Furthermore, the length of Wicked may make patrons squirm. While the film moves at an engaging pace, it still clocks in at a hefty two hours and forty minutes. On top of that, viewers should know that this is only Part 1. Despite the long run time (which Chu uses to add more context to the narrative), Wicked ends on a cliffhanger. More specifically, for those familiar with the musical, this film only covers Act I. Audiences will wait a year for the conclusion.
Wicked is perhaps one of the best Broadway adaptations ever crafted. It assembles the greatest artisans and considers every detail in execution. Families are likely to be absolutely floored and wowed by the sensational energy which comes from a combination of top-notch performances and constant delights for the senses. This movie is absolutely not be missed and comes with the highest recommendation for all ages.
Recommended if you enjoyed: The Greatest Showman; Tick, Tick…Boom; In the Heights
Wicked is now available to see in theaters beginning on November 22nd, 2024
FOR FANBOYS, BY FANBOYS
Have you checked out LRM Online’s official podcasts and videos on The Genreverse Podcast Network? Available on YouTube and all your favorite podcast apps, This multimedia empire includes The Daily CoG, Breaking Geek Radio: The Podcast, GeekScholars Movie News, Anime-Versal Review Podcast, and our Star Wars dedicated podcast The Cantina. Check it out by listening on all your favorite podcast apps, or watching on YouTube!
Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | SoundCloud | Stitcher | Google Play
