Review: Wicked
Everyone Deserves The Chance To Fly
INTRODUCTION
This is a quick review of the newly released film Wicked. Keep in mind this is but one of the many movies I watch every year, and that whatever initial grade I come up for this film could change for better or worse with time. To better keep up to date with both my thoughts on other movies and if my feelings on this film changed, follow me on Letterboxd.
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THE PLOT
Via Letterboxd: Elphaba, an ostracized but defiant girl born with green skin, and Glinda, a privileged aristocrat born popular, become extremely unlikely friends in the magical Land of Oz. As the two girls struggle with their opposing personalities, their friendship is tested as both begin to fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and The Wicked Witch of the West.
QUICK REVIEW
I was in ninth grade when Wicked burst onto the scene, becoming a cultural phenomenon and setting out on its long journey to becoming one of the most iconic Broadway shows of all time. It took me all of nineteen years to finally see the show for myself. The catalyst? News of an upcoming film adaptation directed by Jon M. Chu, the visionary behind one of my all-time favorite film musicals, In the Heights. That announcement finally pushed me to experience the stage play, and I left wondering why I had waited so long after loving every moment of it.
Yet, my excitement for Chu’s adaptation was initially tempered by the backlash surrounding the first teaser trailer, which debuted during the Super Bowl earlier this year. Critics claimed it looked “bland,” “cheap,” and dismissed it as another Disney-ripoff venture. Social media cynics seemed determined to write off the ambitious two-part film adaptation of what might be the 21st century’s most beloved Broadway show. Even the movie’s poster, released last summer, became a punchline in some circles. Although later trailers were better received, it felt like many were preemptively gearing up to pan the film.
Then, over the past month, early reactions on social media flipped the script. Words like “masterpiece” began to dominate the conversation, and what had been a cautious anxiousness turned into awards-season hype overnight. Suddenly, I went from feeling like one of the few optimists about this project to wondering if the rising excitement might be overexaggerated.
Given the controversial decision to split the film into two parts, with the first installment as long as the entire stage musical, I was curious if that would hurt the storytelling when it came to watching this as one film. But after attending a press screening, I came away not only accepting the split but also excited for the upcoming darker, more thought-provoking second half. Despite its nearly three-hour runtime, the film moves at such a brisk pace that it instead feels closer to two hours. Credit for that goes to the tightly choreographed musical numbers and expert editing.
The musical sequences are where Chu’s direction truly soars. He masterfully blends old-school Hollywood musical charm with modern sensibilities, crafting choreography and visuals that make each song number unforgettable. These songs aren’t just highlights, they’re moments that make you sit up in anticipation. And, of course, it helps that the film’s soundtrack remains as great as the stage version.
Chu also adds depth to certain story beats and musical moments, elevating the material in ways that make me eager to see how he handles pivotal scenes in the second act. In less capable hands, this project might have been reduced to a commercial studio effort, but Chu brings a distinctive touch that makes it feel like so much more.
The film’s craftsmanship is dazzling. From the lush production design to the intricate costumes, hair, and makeup, every detail immerses you in Wicked’s magical world. The sound and score are equally impressive, making this a feast for the senses. At a time when big studios often cut corners, it’s refreshing to see such meticulous artistry.
The ensemble cast, however, are the heart of the film. Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba is a tour de force, culminating in a grand and unforgettable finale. Ariana Grande, meanwhile, is a revelation as Glinda, delivering a comedic performance that could easily earn her Supporting Actress honors (She’s my personal winner as of today). Jonathan Bailey shines in every moment he’s on screen, while veterans Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum bring stage-worthy gravitas to their roles, all the while clearly having fun doing it. Even the supporting cast imbue their characters with vibrancy and charm.
If I had to nitpick, it would be the occasional inconsistency in the visuals. While the effects are decent, they don’t quite reach the cutting-edge realism of something like the modern-day Planet of the Apes films. Certain moments can feel reminiscent of a mid-tier Disney live-action remake. Similarly, the cinematography and lighting occasionally falters, alternating between strikingly vibrant colors and a duller, less appealing palette.
Unfortunately, Wicked’s themes remain strikingly relevant in today’s polarized world, where marginalized groups continue to face challenges. It’s sobering that a twenty-year-old musical’s societal commentary still resonates so deeply all this time later. Yet, this tragic timeliness also makes Wicked feel like the kind of film we need right now in a post-2024 election world - offering both joy and reflection.
For all these reasons and more, I’m giving Wicked an A+, with the potential to upgrade it to the legendary S-tier status after a few more re-watches over the next few weeks. For the second time in a row, Jon M. Chu has delivered one of the century’s greatest film musicals. He is the true great and wonderful Wizard of Oz in that respect.
INITIAL GRADING
