Wicked Review

Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of Wicked is a bold, visually dazzling, and heartfelt tribute to the beloved Broadway musical, successfully translating its grand spectacle and emotional core to the big screen. Anchored by stellar performances from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the film expands upon the enchanting world of Oz with breathtaking production design, intricate choreography, and an unforgettable score. Though not without its imperfections, Wicked is a thrilling celebration of love, identity, and the blurry line between good and evil.

The story begins with the Wicked Witch’s infamous demise, narrated by Glinda the Good Witch (Grande) as she reflects on her unlikely friendship with Elphaba (Erivo), the misunderstood girl who would become the Wicked Witch of the West. Through flashbacks, we follow the two women from their days as unlikely roommates at Shiz University to their eventual divergence, shaped by political upheaval and personal sacrifices. While their opposing paths define the story, it is the deep bond they share — platonic yet profound — that gives the film its emotional heft.

Erivo’s Elphaba is a powerful presence, balancing vulnerability and strength with remarkable ease. Her performance in songs like “The Wizard and I” and “Defying Gravity” is awe-inspiring, her voice capturing the emotional weight of her journey. Grande, meanwhile, brings charisma and humor to Galinda, perfectly embodying her bubbly exterior while hinting at the insecurities beneath. Her rendition of “Popular” is both hilarious and endearing, and her chemistry with Erivo is the beating heart of the film. Together, they bring depth to a friendship that is as iconic as it is tragic.

Chu’s directorial vision shines in the film’s spectacular set pieces. The Emerald City dazzles with vibrant detail, while scenes like “Dancing Through Life” showcase intricate choreography and dynamic camerawork that capitalize on the medium of film. The split-screen technique in “What Is This Feeling?” is a particularly creative touch, amplifying the comedic tension between the two leads. The costume and production design honor the stage musical’s theatricality while embracing the fantastical elements of Oz, resulting in a world that feels both familiar and fresh.

The supporting cast also shines, with Jonathan Bailey as the charming Fiyero, Peter Dinklage as the persecuted Dr. Dillamond, and Michelle Yeoh as the enigmatic Madame Morrible. Jeff Goldblum’s Wizard is a playful yet menacing figure, embodying the deceptive power structures that underpin the story. Each performer adds depth and nuance to the film’s richly layered narrative.

While Wicked excels in many areas, it is not without its missteps. The film occasionally struggles with tonal balance, as the darker themes of oppression and authoritarianism clash with the lighter, comedic moments. Some of the CGI, particularly in the portrayal of the animal characters, falls short of the high standard set by the rest of the production. Additionally, the color palette is at times muted, detracting from the technicolor vibrancy that fans might expect from an Ozian tale.

Despite these flaws, Wicked remains an emotionally resonant and visually stunning film. Its themes of love, identity, and resistance resonate deeply, capturing the magic of its Broadway predecessor while adapting it for a new generation. The chemistry between Erivo and Grande, paired with Chu’s confident direction, ensures that Wicked soars as a blockbuster musical experience. This is only the first chapter, with part two set to release in 2025, but it leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the next journey to the land of Oz.