“Are people born wicked, or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?”
This question, central to Wicked, sets the stage for Jon M. Chu’s stunning adaptation of the iconic musical. With a mix of heartfelt storytelling, powerhouse performances, and jaw-dropping visuals, the movie offers a fresh yet faithful take on the untold story of the witches of Oz.
Cynthia Erivo shines as Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch” whose brilliance and determination make her an unforgettable lead. Erivo portrays Elphaba with raw emotion, balancing her resilience with a vulnerability that makes her journey deeply relatable. Across from her, Ariana Grande brings a delightful mix of humor and depth to Galinda, the glittering “good witch” whose bubbly exterior hides a more complex inner life. The chemistry between the two is the heart of the film, telling a story about friendship, ambition, and the blurry line between good and evil.
One of the film’s most interesting angles is its exploration of wickedness itself. Rather than confining it to a single character, Wicked shows how everyone in the story has their own flaws. The Wizard’s manipulative charm, Galinda’s self-absorbed ambition, and even the people of Oz’s willingness to cast blame on those they find unusual all reflect the idea that no one is entirely innocent. This nuance adds layers to the story, making it feel strikingly real and relatable, even in its magical setting.
Visually, the film is a feast for the senses. Chu brings Oz to life with stunning costumes, intricate sets, and special effects that feel both otherworldly and immersive. The Emerald City dazzles, while the darker landscapes of Elphaba’s journey evoke both wonder and unease. Every frame is carefully crafted, drawing you deeper into the world of Oz while highlighting the contrasts between its facade and the cracks beneath the surface.
Music is, of course, the heart of Wicked, and fans of the stage production will be thrilled. Beloved songs like Popular, What is this Feeling, and Defying Gravity are given new life with cinematic flair. Erivo’s breathtaking voice and Grande’s playful energy adds fresh layers to the performances, making these iconic numbers feel both familiar and exciting. Even for newcomers, the music provides a perfect window into the film’s themes of love, loss, and finding strength in the face of adversity.
At nearly three hours, the film does require some patience, but it rarely feels like a slog. The emotional depth of the story and the richness of the world-building keep you invested. There’s a balance of humor, drama, and heartfelt moments that make the journey well worth it.
Whether you’re revisiting this tale or discovering it for the first time, Wicked is a beautiful reminder that good and evil aren’t always as simple as they seem. By showing the complexities of its characters, it invites us to look at ourselves and others with a little more understanding. It’s a story that stays with you, proving that even the “wicked” can have the most intense impact.
