Jon M. Chu’s highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, Wicked has arrived and is absolutely spectacular! I went into this show fully unaware of the lore behind this world and am so glad that I did. This is an experience like no other and a masterclass in filmmaking. Personally, I hope this movie wins every Oscar that it qualifies for.
Fans of the show have waited years to see this story soar onto the big screen and they will be happy to see Chu deliver an adaptation that honours the source material and leaves plenty of easter eggs behind to tie them over until part 2 arrives in 2026. I am not a person who generally loves musicals but, after watching this, I am a believer and newly-minted theatre kid. Chu’s vision is emotionally resonant and has cemented Wicked as one of the most dazzling musicals of the decade.
A Story That Soars Beyond Oz
For those unfamiliar, Wicked is a prequel, middle and the aftermath to The Wizard of Oz. However, it flips the perspective to focus on the relationship between Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch of the West” and Glinda, the Good Witch. The film explores themes of friendship, identity and the questionable values and belief systems that are the foundation of Oz.
As a new viewer, I could not help but feel dejavu watching. Here is a woman who is abused, laughed at and bullied her whole life for being green. She is the target of everyone’s internal discrimination and openly vilified for it, despite being a lovely person. Then, there is Glinda, the naturally preferred and assumed “good,” because she is milk white, pretty in pink and very good at imitating kindness. I found myself asking- was this meant to be political? Because this dynamic echoes the experience of Black and POC people facing discrimination is a white, passive-aggressive world. The act of fake kindness and being conflict adverse is how white communities uphold the system of white supremacy, just as Glinda chooses to uphold the corrupt system.
Whatever the message is meant to be, Chu embraces the complexity of this narrative with precision, blending heart-wrenching character moments with exciting visual flair. This movie is so much fun and equally heavy as it stands as an allegory of acceptance and standing up against social injustice.
A Cast That Enchants
At the heart of Wicked are its two stars, and the cast could not have been more perfect. Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba is biblical- I think she might be a real angel, because… my God! Her portrayal is raw, vulnerable, and achingly human. Her powerhouse vocals sent chills throughout my body. (I actually sobbed when she performed “Defying Gravity”.)
Ariana Grande’s Glinda offers a delightful counterbalance. I am not in the Grande fanbase so I really did not know she was that sort of performer but she silenced my inner skeptic with a nuanced performance that captures Glinda’s effervescent charm and emotional depth. Grande’s comedic timing and angelic voice shine brightly, particularly in numbers like “Popular” and the heart-wrenching duet “For Good.”
Together, Erivo and Grande create a chemistry that feels authentic and deeply moving. Their journey from adversaries to allies is the beating heart of the film, and it’s a joy to watch unfold.
Jon M. Chu’s Vision: Bigger, Brighter, and More Beautiful
Known for his dynamic visuals and heartfelt storytelling (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), Jon M. Chu was the perfect choice to bring Wicked to life. Chu’s direction transforms Oz into a living, breathing world, equal parts enchanting and foreboding. Every frame is a feast for the eyes, with lush landscapes, intricate costumes, and incredible special effects. My favourite scene was “Dancing Through Life” because of how cool the spinning ladder was, check out our interview with Chu to learn how he and his musical team made that practical effect happen.
The Emerald City glimmers with an Art Deco-inspired opulence, while the darker corners of Oz—like the barren wastelands of Kiamo Ko—are rendered with haunting beauty. Chu’s use of practical effects blended with CGI gives the film a tangible, immersive quality that few fantasy films achieve.
The film’s musical numbers are staged with breathtaking creativity. “Defying Gravity” is an unparalleled cinematic moment, with Elphaba’s ascent into the sky accompanied by swirling winds and cascading lights that make you feel like you’re soaring alongside her. Similarly, “No One Mourns the Wicked” sets the tone with grandeur and drama, while “Dancing Through Life” brings levity and charm.
Final Verdict: A Once In A Lifetime Experience
I am obsessed. I have nothing bad to say, I am excited for the next chapter and I am now a transformed theatre adult. Ha!
Wicked is now playing in theatres worldwide.
