Wicked (2024) Movie Review

Director: Jon M. Chu
Writers: Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox, Gregory Maguire
Stars: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey



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Storyline Overview

Wicked reimagines the Land of Oz as you’ve never seen it before, spotlighting the untold stories of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and Glinda the Good Witch. It begins at Shiz University, where a young, misunderstood Elphaba—ostracized for her green skin—crosses paths with the popular and glamorous Glinda. Despite their differences, the two form an unlikely friendship that is tested by love, betrayal, and an encounter with the enigmatic Wizard of Oz.

As Elphaba fights against injustice and corruption, her transformation into the “Wicked Witch” is far more complex and heartbreaking than the classic The Wizard of Oz ever suggested. This reimagining intertwines political intrigue, personal tragedies, and questions of morality, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved story.

What Works?

  1. Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba
    Cynthia Erivo’s performance as Elphaba is both powerful and nuanced. She captures the character's vulnerability and strength, making her descent into “wickedness” feel tragic and relatable. Her vocal performances, particularly in songs like Defying Gravity, are nothing short of breathtaking.

  2. Ariana Grande as Glinda
    Ariana Grande surprises as Glinda, blending charm and complexity into a character that could have easily been one-dimensional. Her comedic timing and emotional depth bring a fresh dynamic to the story.

  3. Jon M. Chu’s Direction
    Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights) delivers a visually stunning experience. From the lush landscapes of Oz to the magical vibrancy of Shiz University, every frame is bursting with color and detail. Chu’s expertise in musical storytelling shines in the show-stopping set pieces.

  4. Musical Score
    The beloved score by Stephen Schwartz, paired with new arrangements, feels fresh yet familiar. Iconic numbers like Popular and For Good retain their emotional resonance, while new additions enrich the narrative.

  5. Complex Themes
    At its core, Wicked is a story about identity, love, and the grey areas of morality. The film’s exploration of Elphaba’s fight against corruption and her struggles with perception and prejudice adds a layer of depth to the whimsical world of Oz.

What Could Be Better?

  1. Pacing Issues
    The film’s first half is heavily focused on world-building and character development, which might feel slow to viewers unfamiliar with the musical. The second half, while more dramatic, could have benefited from a tighter narrative.

  2. Supporting Characters
    While Jonathan Bailey’s portrayal of Fiyero is charismatic, the character’s arc feels underexplored. Similarly, the Wizard of Oz, played by a troubled yet enigmatic figure, could have used more screen time to deepen his impact on the story.

  3. Comparisons to the Musical
    Fans of the original stage production may find some changes in tone or plot jarring. While the movie stands strong on its own, it might not completely satisfy die-hard theater enthusiasts.

Why Watch It?

  • For fans of The Wizard of Oz, Wicked offers a deeper, more layered look at the story and its iconic characters.
  • The performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are showstoppers, breathing new life into their characters.
  • The stunning visuals and heartfelt musical numbers make this a cinematic experience not to be missed.

Final Verdict

Wicked is a triumphant adaptation of the beloved musical, combining stunning visuals, powerhouse performances, and a deeply emotional storyline. While it occasionally stumbles in pacing, the film’s heart and depth make it a must-watch for fans of musicals and fantasy alike.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)