The wicked film

 

Wicked (2024) – Film Review  

Jon M. Chu’s Wicked (Part One), adapted from the iconic Broadway musical and Gregory Maguire’s novel, is an ambitious reimagining of the Land of Oz — one that dares to shift the spotlight from Dorothy to the witches who shaped Oz long before that Kansas tornado ever touched down. With stellar casting, dazzling visuals, and emotionally resonant storytelling, Wicked delivers a cinematic spectacle while offering a fresh, nuanced take on good, evil, and everything in between.

At the heart of Wicked is the unlikely friendship between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a misunderstood young woman born with green skin, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), the popular and ambitious blonde who thrives on attention. Set in the magical world of Shiz University, their journey from rivalry to deep friendship forms the emotional spine of the film.

Cynthia Erivo gives a powerful, deeply empathetic performance as Elphaba. Her rendition of “Defying Gravity” — the musical’s soaring anthem — is a highlight, capturing both vulnerability and fierce determination. Ariana Grande surprises as Glinda, blending comedic timing with heartfelt sincerity, particularly in songs like “Popular” and “For Good.” Their chemistry is convincing and heartfelt, anchoring the film in genuine emotion.

Director Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights) proves a perfect match for this lavish musical. His flair for spectacle shines through in grand set pieces and dynamic camera work, while still allowing intimate character moments to breathe. The production design is rich and immersive, creating a version of Oz that feels both familiar and reimagined — colorful, gothic, and politically charged.

The music, composed by Stephen Schwartz, remains largely faithful to the stage production, with subtle rearrangements that suit the film format. The songs retain their emotional punch, though the film's pacing occasionally slows to accommodate them. Longtime fans will appreciate the faithfulness to the source material, while newcomers are given plenty of context to connect with the story.