Wicked (2024) Movie Review: A Grand Adaptation of the Beloved Musical
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| Wicked Review 2024 |
Introduction
Wicked is a film adaptation of the Broadway musical that
debuted in 2003, which in turn was based on the novel published in 1995. This
long-anticipated movie brings the beloved story to life on the big screen,
featuring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and Ariana
Grande as Glinda—though she prefers it pronounced with a Chandler Bing-style
"Ginda." The story explores the origins of the Wicked Witch,
questioning whether she was truly evil or simply misunderstood.
Wicked Trailer
A Fresh Perspective on a Classic Villain
Movies that humanize villains have become increasingly
popular, but Wicked was one of the original stories to do so. Instead of
portraying Elphaba as a straightforward antagonist, the film delves into her
background, presenting an alternative perspective on what we thought we knew
about the Wicked Witch of the West. Is she really wicked, or is she a victim of
propaganda?
Performances and Chemistry
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande shine in their roles,
with a dynamic and engaging chemistry that drives the story forward. Initially,
the expectation was a simple friendship-turned-rivalry narrative, but Wicked
offers much more depth. Glinda, in particular, experiences significant
character growth, which was an unexpected and pleasant surprise.
Ariana Grande, known mostly for her music career,
delivers an impressive performance. Though she is a major pop star, some
viewers (like myself) may not be familiar with her work outside of music.
Nevertheless, she brings comedic timing and charisma to the role, embodying the
"Mean Girls princess" persona with ease.
Grand Scale and Musical Elements
This movie feels massive in scope and production. The
sets, colors, and musical numbers are vibrant and immersive, making it clear
that this is an adaptation of a Broadway spectacle. The music is catchy—even
for those unfamiliar with the original score. If a song sticks in your head on
the drive home, that’s a win.
The Downside: A Setup for Part Two
The biggest drawback is that Wicked is a
two-part movie, and this first installment feels like a setup rather than a
complete film. While it introduces intriguing ideas—such as the rising fascism
subplot and deeper themes about power dynamics—it leaves much unresolved. This
can be frustrating for audiences who want a full narrative experience rather
than just a prelude to the next movie.
Jonathan Bailey, who plays a key romantic interest, is
a standout in the film. However, his storyline, along with the broader themes
of oppression and control, feels like it's only just beginning. The split into
two parts results in a pacing issue, making the film feel like a long
introduction rather than a standalone movie.
Comparisons and Final Thoughts
The film carries a similar vibe to Mean Girls
set in a magical school, with moments of grandeur reminiscent of The Hobbit—though,
like The Hobbit trilogy, it sometimes feels padded to justify multiple
installments. Interestingly, Wicked Part One is nearly as long as the
entire Broadway musical, raising questions about whether the split was
necessary.
Despite this, the film does its job in getting
audiences invested in the story. Fans of the musical will likely appreciate the
adaptation, while newcomers will find themselves intrigued by the world and
eager to see how it all unfolds in Part Two.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Wicked is an enjoyable film with
strong performances, grand visuals, and catchy music. While the decision to
split it into two parts detracts from its impact, it still succeeds in making
viewers excited for what comes next. If the sequel delivers on the promise of
this setup, Wicked could turn out to be something truly special.
Have you seen Wicked? What did you think?
Comment below and let me know
Summery
Wicked (2024) adapts the beloved Broadway musical into
a visually grand film with strong performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana
Grande. The story humanizes Elphaba, questioning whether she was truly wicked
or just misunderstood. The film’s scale, music, and character growth shine, but
its biggest flaw is being only part one of a two-part adaptation, making it
feel like an extended setup. Despite pacing issues, it succeeds in building
intrigue for the sequel. Fans of the musical will appreciate the adaptation,
while newcomers will find it engaging. If the sequel delivers, Wicked
could become something truly special.
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