✅ “Wicked” (2024) takes audiences on a dazzling journey to the Land of Oz, long before Dorothy’s arrival, to tell the untold story of its most infamous resident: the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. This highly anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical is a vibrant spectacle, exploring the unlikely friendship between the intelligent, green-skinned Elphaba and the popular, bubbly Galinda, and how their destinies lead them down very different paths. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, “Wicked” premiered in November 2024, enchanting audiences with its powerhouse vocals, stunning visuals, and a compelling narrative about standing up for what’s right.

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6.9/10

Wicked

Director: Jon M. Chu

Writers: Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox

Stars: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum

Country: United States of America

Genres: Drama, Romance, Fantasy

Languages: English

Overview: In the land of Oz, ostracized and misunderstood green-skinned Elphaba is forced to share a room with the popular aristocrat Glinda at Shiz University, and the two's unlikely friendship is tested as...

TMDb: View on TMDb

Wicked (2024) – Movie Overview & Analysis-BollyFlix

Movie Details 

• Full Name: Wicked (2024)
• Language: English
• Budget: $150 million
• Box Office: $756.5 million (Worldwide)
• Runtime: 2 hours 40 minutes (160 minutes)
• Release Date: November 22, 2024 (United States)
• Genres: Fantasy, Musical, Romance
• Main Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Peter Dinklage (voice), Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, Keala Settle
• Director: Jon M. Chu
• Writers: Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox (screenplay), Gregory Maguire (novel)
• Studios & Producers: Universal Pictures, Marc Platt Productions (Executive Producers: Marc Platt, David Stone, Jon M. Chu)
• Voice Cast: Peter Dinklage (Dr. Dillamond), Sharon D. Clarke (Dulcibear), Tom Kitely (Snow Leopard), Elizabeth Dulau (Piebald Deer), Kim Durham (Tamarin / Owl), Jennifer Woodward (Birds), Stephen Stanton (Fiyero’s Horse)
• Animation & Style: Not Applicable (Live-action with significant CGI for fantastical elements)

OFFICIAL IMAGES

Plot Summary

“Wicked” (2024) serves as a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” delving into the events that shaped the lives of Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Galinda, who becomes Glinda the Good. The story begins at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz, where the socially awkward but magically gifted Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo), with her emerald green skin, arrives feeling like an outcast. She is reluctantly assigned as roommates with the popular, privileged, and dazzling Galinda Upland (Ariana Grande).

Despite their initial animosity and stark differences, an unlikely friendship blossoms between them. Elphaba discovers her immense magical potential, which draws the attention of the university’s headmistress, Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), and eventually, the elusive Wonderful Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum). As they navigate their studies, friendships, and burgeoning romance (including a shared interest in the charming Fiyero, played by Jonathan Bailey), they uncover a darker side to the seemingly benevolent Wizard and the political corruption secretly brewing in Oz, particularly concerning the suppression of sentient Animals. Elphaba finds herself at odds with the establishment, forced to make a stand against injustice, which ultimately leads to her being branded as “wicked” by the fearful citizens of Oz. The film chronicles her journey of defiance, self-discovery, and the tragic misunderstandings that transform her into the iconic green-skinned witch, while Galinda embraces her role as the revered Glinda, all leading up to the events that precede Dorothy’s arrival. This first part of the two-part film delves into their formative years and the crucial choices that set them on their fated paths.

Cast & Crew

“Wicked” boasts a star-studded cast bringing the iconic characters to life. At the heart of the film are Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Ariana Grande as Galinda, who later becomes Glinda the Good. Erivo’s powerhouse vocals and profound emotional depth anchor the film, allowing her to embody Elphaba’s journey from misunderstood outcast to defiant icon. Grande delivers a dazzling performance as Galinda, showcasing her vocal prowess and comedic timing, perfectly capturing the character’s journey from superficiality to genuine empathy.

The supporting cast is equally impressive. Jonathan Bailey charms as Fiyero, the object of both Elphaba and Galinda’s affections. Michelle Yeoh brings a formidable presence as the enigmatic Madame Morrible, while Jeff Goldblum perfectly embodies the Wonderful Wizard of Oz with his signature quirky charisma. Ethan Slater plays Boq, and Marissa Bode portrays Nessarose, Elphaba’s sister. The film also features voice performances by Peter Dinklage as Dr. Dillamond, a sentient Goat professor, and cameos from the original Broadway stars, Idina Menzel (who originated Elphaba) and Kristin Chenoweth (who originated Glinda). The film is masterfully directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his vibrant musical adaptations like “In the Heights,” who brings a grand vision to the Land of Oz. The screenplay by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, based on Gregory Maguire’s novel and Holzman’s stage musical book, skillfully adapts the beloved story for the big screen.

Critical & Audience Response

“Wicked” (2024) has been met with overwhelmingly positive critical and audience reception, proving to be a highly anticipated and successful adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. Critics have widely praised the film for its stunning visual spectacle, faithful yet cinematic adaptation of the source material, and the sensational performances of its lead stars, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Erivo, in particular, has garnered immense acclaim for her powerful vocals and emotionally resonant portrayal of Elphaba, while Grande has surprised many with her comedic timing and embodiment of Galinda’s evolution.

The film’s direction by Jon M. Chu has been lauded for his ability to translate the magic of the stage to the big screen with sweeping scope and vibrant energy. The production design, costumes, and overall fantastical aesthetic have also received significant appreciation. Reviewers note that the film successfully navigates the balance between delivering fan-favorite moments from the musical and providing fresh cinematic flourishes. While some minor criticisms occasionally touch upon pacing or the sheer volume of musical numbers, the general consensus is that “Wicked” lives up to its immense hype. Audience response has been exceptionally strong, with the film breaking box office records for a musical adaptation and receiving near-perfect scores from verified viewers. It was named one of the best films of 2024 by the American Film Institute and garnered significant awards buzz, cementing its place as a major cinematic event. Fans and newcomers alike have embraced the film, affirming its status as a pop culture phenomenon.

Direction & Cinematography

The direction of “Wicked” by Jon M. Chu is nothing short of spectacular, proving his mastery in adapting grand musical narratives for the screen. Chu seamlessly blends the theatricality of the Broadway show with the expansive possibilities of cinema. He orchestrates complex musical numbers with precision and flair, ensuring that each song feels dynamic and visually engaging, often transforming into breathtaking cinematic sequences. His direction effectively captures the emotional core of the story, allowing the audience to connect deeply with Elphaba’s struggles and Galinda’s evolution. Chu’s vision brings a vibrant, lush, and whimsical Oz to life, balancing moments of intimate character drama with large-scale spectacle.

The cinematography is equally vital to the film’s success, creating a visually rich and immersive world. The film employs a vibrant color palette, particularly in the dazzling Emerald City and the more muted, earthy tones associated with Elphaba’s journey. Sweeping camera movements capture the grand scale of the musical numbers and the fantastical landscapes, while intimate close-ups highlight the emotional performances of the cast. The visual language is consistently inventive, with dynamic angles and fluid transitions that maintain energy throughout its long runtime. The use of practical sets combined with seamless CGI elements creates a believable and enchanting Oz, ensuring that the visual experience is as captivating as the musical performances. The direction and cinematography work in perfect harmony to deliver a truly magical and memorable cinematic experience.

Music & Background Score

The music of “Wicked” is, of course, its beating heart. The film beautifully translates Stephen Schwartz’s iconic and beloved score from stage to screen, with new arrangements and orchestrations that enhance their cinematic impact. From the soaring anthems like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good” to the witty and charming “Popular” and the deeply emotional “I’m Not That Girl,” every song is performed with incredible vocal power and emotional nuance by the cast, particularly Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Erivo’s rendition of “Defying Gravity” is a showstopper, solidifying her status as a vocal force.

The background score, interwoven with the musical numbers, subtly builds the atmosphere and reinforces the emotional beats of the story. It uses recurring motifs from the songs to create a cohesive and memorable auditory experience, signaling character themes and plot developments. The musical direction ensures that the songs are not merely performance pieces but integral parts of the narrative, propelling the story forward and deepening character development. The balance between the powerful vocal performances, the rich orchestral arrangements, and the subtle underscore creates a captivating and emotionally resonant auditory landscape that fully immerses the audience in the magical world of Oz. The film’s soundtrack is undoubtedly one of its strongest assets, satisfying long-time fans and captivating new ones.

Visuals & Special Effects

“Wicked” is a visual feast, living up to the grandeur and magic expected from the Land of Oz. The film excels in its production design, creating a vibrant, imaginative world that is both familiar and uniquely cinematic. The fantastical sets, particularly those depicting Shiz University, the Emerald City, and the various landscapes of Oz, are meticulously detailed and stunningly realized, blending practical elements with state-of-the-art visual effects. The costume design is equally breathtaking, with vibrant colors, intricate textures, and fantastical silhouettes that bring the characters to life, from Galinda’s extravagant gowns to Elphaba’s signature dark attire.

The special effects are seamlessly integrated, enhancing the magical elements of the story without overshadowing the performances. CGI is used effectively to create flying monkeys, talking animals, and Elphaba’s powerful magical abilities, all of which feel organic to the world. The transitions between scenes are often visually inventive, utilizing magical effects to transport the audience. The overall visual style is lush and immersive, with a keen eye for detail in every frame. This commitment to stunning visuals ensures that “Wicked” is not just a musical, but a truly spectacular cinematic experience that transports viewers directly into the heart of Oz’s enchantment and wonder.

Editing & Screenplay

The editing in “Wicked” (2024) is a masterclass in musical adaptation, balancing the theatrical origins with cinematic pacing. The film, despite its lengthy runtime, maintains a strong narrative flow, transitioning smoothly between musical numbers and dramatic scenes. The editing allows for both grand, sweeping shots during big ensemble pieces and intimate close-ups that capture the emotional nuance of the performances. It carefully builds the emotional arc of Elphaba and Galinda’s friendship and their diverging paths, ensuring that every beat of their story lands with impact. The pacing is deliberate but never drags, a testament to the editor’s skill in maintaining engagement across musical spectacle and plot development.

The screenplay, adapted by Winnie Holzman (who also wrote the musical’s book) and Dana Fox from Gregory Maguire’s novel, is a brilliant translation of a complex story. It successfully weaves together themes of discrimination, propaganda, friendship, and self-acceptance within the fantastical framework of Oz. The dialogue is sharp, witty, and often deeply poignant, particularly in the exchanges between Elphaba and Galinda. The script skillfully sets up the iconic elements of “The Wizard of Oz” while offering a fresh, revisionist perspective on its characters, particularly the Wicked Witch. It manages to deliver fan-favorite lines and musical moments while also providing subtle nuances and expansions for the cinematic medium. The decision to split the story into two parts allows for a more comprehensive and detailed exploration of the characters and their journeys, avoiding the pitfalls of rushing a rich narrative. The screenplay ensures that the film is not just a faithful adaptation but a compelling standalone story that resonates with contemporary audiences.

Positives / What Works

“Wicked” (2024) is a triumph on many fronts. Its most outstanding feature is the phenomenal performances by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Galinda, who deliver both stunning vocals and compelling acting. The film’s visuals are breathtaking, from the vibrant production design and intricate costumes to the seamless special effects that bring Oz to life. Jon M. Chu’s direction is masterful, balancing grand spectacle with intimate character moments, making the musical numbers feel dynamic and cinematic. The screenplay successfully adapts the beloved stage show, preserving its heart and wit while expanding on its themes for a broader audience. The powerful themes of friendship, discrimination, and finding one’s voice resonate deeply, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The film has been widely praised for living up to the immense hype, becoming a critical and commercial success.

Negatives / What Doesn’t Work

While “Wicked” has been overwhelmingly well-received, some minor points of critique have emerged. For viewers unfamiliar with the stage musical, the sheer volume of musical numbers and the extensive runtime (2 hours 40 minutes for Part 1) might feel a bit long, potentially leading to pacing issues for some. A few critics noted that while the overall visual splendor is impressive, occasional moments might lean slightly too heavily into CGI, though this is a subjective point. Some found certain supporting characters, beyond the core trio, to be less developed, though this is often a challenge in adapting a musical with many characters. However, these are largely minor concerns, and for the vast majority of audiences and critics, “Wicked” delivers on its promise.

Final Verdict / Conclusion

“Wicked” (2024) is a triumphant cinematic event that honors its beloved Broadway legacy while forging its own path as a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver career-defining performances, bringing depth, heart, and incredible vocal power to Elphaba and Galinda. Director Jon M. Chu orchestrates a vibrant and immersive world of Oz, making every musical number a spectacle and every dramatic beat impactful. The film intelligently explores themes of friendship, prejudice, and political manipulation, making it relevant and engaging for contemporary audiences. It’s a magical, moving, and thoroughly entertaining experience that has captivated both long-time fans of the musical and newcomers to the Land of Oz. As the first part of a two-film saga, “Wicked” sets a high bar and leaves audiences eagerly anticipating its conclusion. It is, without a doubt, one of the year’s standout films.

Movie Rating

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