WICKED: Review
The film adaptation of Wicked: Part One, directed by Jon M. Chu, delivers a dazzling visual spectacle while bringing Gregory Maguire’s story, adapted from the Broadway musical, to the big screen. With standout performances and bold production choices, the movie explores the backstory of Elphaba and Glinda, better known as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good from The Wizard of Oz. While it largely succeeds in reimagining the tale for a cinematic audience, it also faces some challenges in replicating the emotional resonance of its stage predecessor.
Cynthia Erivo shines as Elphaba, delivering a layered performance that captures the character's loneliness and burgeoning power. Ariana Grande, as the bubbly Glinda, complements Erivo's intensity with charm and comedic timing. Their dynamic—ranging from rivalry to heartfelt camaraderie—is central to the story and one of the film's strengths. The supporting cast, including Jonathan Bailey as the dashing Fiyero and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, adds depth, though some performances, like Michelle Yeoh's Madame Morrible, have been noted as inconsistent in tone.
The film’s production design is breathtaking. The vibrant, immersive sets of Oz and intricate costumes by Paul Tazewell offer a striking visual departure from the constraints of the stage. Key musical numbers such as "Defying Gravity" and "Popular" are faithfully reimagined, with the former utilizing sweeping CGI to create an awe-inspiring climactic moment, though some viewers have missed the intimate magic of the stage version.
While the visuals are stunning, critics have pointed out that the reliance on CGI sometimes detracts from the narrative. For example, the portrayal of Doctor Dillamond, a talking goat professor, raises questions about how the film's heavy use of digital effects alters the allegorical weight of the story. Some of the film’s pacing also suffers due to its division into two parts, leaving certain arcs feeling incomplete. Fans of the Broadway show might find the emotional impact diluted by these changes, especially when iconic moments are overproduced rather than left to the imagination.
Wicked: Part One offers a bold, visually ambitious take on a beloved musical, with moments of brilliance in its performances and world-building. However, the transition from stage to screen highlights the challenges of adapting live theater for film, where spectacle sometimes overshadows subtlety. Despite these hurdles, the movie succeeds in introducing the world of Wicked to a broader audience and sets the stage for an anticipated conclusion in Part Two.
For fans of musicals and fantasy, Wicked: Part One is a triumph, blending nostalgia with a fresh cinematic perspective. However, it is not without some flaws, particularly for those who cherish the original Broadway production. Its strengths lie in its performances and visual grandeur, but its heart might feel slightly buried beneath the blockbuster sheen for some people. I personally was swept away.
4.5/5 stars
Wicked out now in cinemas Worldwide.
