Wicked (2024) Review

When the announcement of Wicked as a feature film broke, skepticism was the prevailing sentiment. A beloved Broadway juggernaut, many feared it would suffer the same fate as other stage-to-screen adaptations, stumbling under the weight of high expectations and misaligned creative vision. However, under Jon M. Chu’s masterful direction, Wicked not only meets but thoroughly exceeds all expectations, creating a cinematic marvel that captures the heart of its source material while elevating it into something entirely its own.

From the opening frame, it’s clear that Wicked is a visual feast. The production design is nothing short of breathtaking, with every detail of Oz rendered in vibrant, hyper-realistic splendor. The Emerald City dazzles like a dream, with architecture that fuses fantasy and futuristic elegance, while the contrasting shadows of Elphaba’s world brim with gothic allure. The costume designs are a triumph, blending theatrical flair with cinematic sophistication.

Jon M. Chu’s background in lush, visually dynamic films like Crazy Rich Asians shines through in his direction. The use of sweeping camera movements, innovative transitions, and meticulous framing transforms Wicked into a film that feels alive. The musical numbers are particularly stunning; the combination of fluid choreography, lighting, and dynamic set pieces ensures each song becomes an unforgettable moment.

Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is a revelation. She brings a fierce vulnerability to the role, balancing the character’s steely determination with a tender yearning for acceptance. Her vocal performance is nothing short of jaw-dropping, delivering an earth-shattering rendition of “Defying Gravity” that will send chills down your spine.

Ariana Grande’s Glinda is a delightful surprise, her bubbly charm and comedic timing perfectly complementing Erivo’s gravitas. Her crystalline soprano voice dazzles in songs like “Popular,” while her chemistry with Erivo adds a nuanced depth to their evolving friendship. Jeff Goldblum, as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, strikes a perfect balance between charisma and menace, his portrayal lending the character a gravitas often missing in previous adaptations.

The supporting cast also shines, with standout performances by Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, both bringing complexity to roles that could easily have been overshadowed.

Adapting a Broadway phenomenon to film is a Herculean task, but Wicked succeeds where many have faltered. The challenge lies in preserving the theatrical magic while embracing the scale and intimacy that only cinema can offer. Chu understands this balance perfectly, retaining the heart and spectacle of the original while using the medium to expand its emotional and visual reach. The script stays true to the source material while making thoughtful adjustments to enhance pacing and character development.

At its core, Wicked is a film that knows how to entertain. From the jaw-dropping set pieces to the heartfelt performances, every aspect of the movie is crafted to draw the audience into its world. The humor lands perfectly, the emotional beats resonate deeply, and the action sequences thrill without overshadowing the story.

And as the credits roll, audiences are left not only satisfied but eagerly anticipating the next chapter. Chu’s decision to split the adaptation into two parts pays off, allowing this installment to conclude with a powerful cliffhanger that leaves you hungry for more.

In a year filled with blockbusters, Wicked stands out as a testament to what can happen when a beloved story is handled with care, creativity, and a touch of magic. This is a film that will enchant longtime fans and newcomers alike, ensuring that Oz—and Elphaba’s unforgettable journey—remains in our hearts for years to come.