“Wicked”: A Film Oozing With Talent That Indeed Defies Gravity

Directed by: Jon M. Chu
Rating: 9/10

“Wicked” brings to life the untold tale of the witches from Oz, featuring the incredibly talented Cynthia Erivo, known for her award-winning performances in “Harriet” and Broadway’s “The Color Purple,” taking on the role of Elphaba--a young woman with distinctive green skin, often misunderstood, who is on a journey to discover her true potential. The Grammy-winning pop star Ariana Grande-Butera, played Glinda, a young woman who is both popular and ambitious, yet still searching for her true self. As students at Shiz University in the magical Land of Oz, the two form an unlikely but profound bond. However, after an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship is tested, leading them down separate paths.

As a theater kid, not by talent but by heart, I am no stranger to the magic of musicals and the transformative experiences that they offer. “Wicked,” directed by Jon Chu, is the cinematic equivalent of the Marvel Universe for a theater kid like me. It’s a beautiful world where the fantastical meets the profound, and the stage I once adored has now been expanded into a vibrant, larger-than-life universe. As someone who has held the world of Shiz and Oz close to my heart, Jon’s adaptation is a grand-scale and beautifully crafted musical, an utterly flawless adaptation of the source material. Jon did not just make the “Wicked” world into this grandeur reality; he showed courage by creating his own vision of this already familiar world by adding more emotions and flair to the narrative and not entirely changing the story. It was a conscious decision that showed his respect and care for the source material. The film possesses a heart and vision that transcends and, indeed, defies gravity.

Ariana Grande-Butera and Cynthia Erivo took center stage as Glinda and Elphaba, and their performances are nothing short of extraordinary. Their chemistry is palpable, much like what we usually see in their press conference and interviews, capturing the beauty and complexity of their friendship that is the anchor of the film. The live singing and orchestration add another layer of magic to the film, creating an immersive experience that envelops the audience in the music. The score is grand and evocative, enhancing every emotional beat and elevating the narrative. For fans of the musical, like I am, these elements are a testament to the passion and talent of the entire creative team, who have succeeded in translating the essence of the stage production to the big screen.

Universal Pictures

As someone who has been following Ariana Grande since her days on “Victorious,” I was genuinely surprised by her transformation as Glinda. This was not the pop star I’d come to know; instead, Ariana embraced her inner child and portrayed her role with sincerity and depth that was both unexpected and delightful. Her portrayal of Glinda is nuanced and layered, and you can see her channeling the young Ariana, who watched the musical when she was just 10 years old. Her naivety and childlike performance have captured the true essence of Glinda, a witch longing for popularity and validation from the people around her, and Madame Morrible, played by the Academy-Award winner Michelle Yeoh.

Cynthia Erivo, on the other hand, delivered an Oscar-worthy performance that is both powerful and poignant. Her rendition of “Defying Gravity” is a standout moment in the film, echoing with emotional intensity and vocal prowess. It’s a performance that pays homage to the iconic legacy of “Adele Dazeem,” known as Idina Menzel, while also carving out her own unique version. Cynthia’s Elphaba is complex, vulnerable, and very humane, a portrayal that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Is she worthy of an Oscar nomination? Definitely.

As this is just the first part of a two-part adaptation, “Wicked” has set the stage for a continuation that promises to be equally compelling and moving. This film is a flawless adaptation, a celebration of talent and vision that showcases the incredible work of the cast and crew. From the visionary director to the outstanding performances from the leads down to the technical brilliance of the production team and music score, “Wicked” is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of musicals.

In conclusion, “Wicked” is a triumphant film that expands the world of Oz and Shiz’s universe in thrilling new ways. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the stage musical or new to its enchanting tale, this film captured the essence of what makes the world of Wicked so special and unique—with its exploration of friendship, identity, and the courage to defy gravity. Chu’s “Wicked” is a cinematic masterpiece that honors its roots while daring to soar to new heights, leaving audiences with a sense of awe and excitement for Part 2.

“Wicked” will forever be famous—well, Popular! (You see what I did there?)