“Wicked: Part I,” a fantasy film starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande and Jeff Goldblum came out on Nov. 22, 2024.
This adaption of Broadway’s fourth longest-running show follows the storyline of Elphaba’s (the Wicked Witch of the West’s) struggle to self-acceptance after growing up being bullied, scorned and hated for having green skin and special powers. She tries to find happiness and harness her magical abilities at Shiz University, where she and Glinda (the Good Witch) form a complex and unlikely friendship.
They journey through the Land of Oz to Emerald City so Elphaba can be granted her heart’s biggest desire, but instead a dark truth is revealed that tests the boundaries of their relationship.
This movie was directed by Jon M. Chu, who’s best known for the popular romantic comedy “Crazy Rich Asians” that premiered in 2018. His works can be characterized by popping colors, elaborate dance scenes and bird’s-eye views, which is clearly demonstrated all throughout “Wicked.”
I’m typically not a fan of musicals, with the expectation of cult classics like “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Hamilton” or “Hairspray.” Had I known that this movie was two hours and 40 minutes long when my brother asked to go last Friday night, my answer would have simply been “no, absolutely not, why would you even ask?”
But this musical was exceptionally done to say the least. Three hours feel like one and a half. The set designs and CGI were unbelievable. And I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many sparkles, gold accents and shades of pink or green maybe in my entire life — you can start to understand why the budget was $145 million. Cast roles were also incredibly fitting and well executed.
Glinda, definitely my favorite character, is best described like Sharpay from “High School Musical,” and her long blonde hair, doe eyes, bratty attitude and impeccable fashion sense builds a stark contrast to her roomate Elphaba’s curious, introverted and deeply empathetic self. Their switch from enemies to best friends is nothing but entertaining. It’s interesting to peel back the witty and remarkable layers of both characters and watch them grow.
Each scene is packed with emotion and cheesy lines, but in the heartwarming, not gag-worthy kind of way. Almost every time I looked to the left my brother and his girlfriend were crying into their bag of popcorn.
The shallow behavior and ignorance of society today is emphasized, and concepts like nature vs. nurture are being analyzed. In the beginning, a little girl asks Glinda why wickedness happens, which further begged questions of “are we born like this?” or “do people and events make us that way?” This is what transitions us into Elpheba’s story in the first place.
Overall, I’d rate this movie a four out of five, and would recommend it to anyone who hasn’t already bought tickets. You’ll leave the theaters wanting more and waiting for a part two.
