Wicked Movie Reviews: It was only a matter of time before the movie version of the cherished musical Wicked hit the Viky screen. This is the first part of a two-part movie adaptation of the Broadway play directed by Jon M. Chu and most strikingly this version does not retell the story of the Broadway musical, rather this one, very creatively. Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda are both stunning in their roles but step back for a second and praise the level of Wicked’s visuals and emotions while travelling in the land of Oz.
The Storyline has Layers: A Prequel to Remember
Wicked explains the backstory of Elphaba, the girl who was green and cast away because of her looks and even more so, owned witchcraft. It is a sweet yet sad tale on how one transforms from being an Outcast to the Wicked Witch of the West’s antagonist. The story starts when she arrives at Shiz University, to which, she is unwillingly enrolled where she meets a cheerful yet vain Galinda. Their friendship’s development, filled with misunderstandings and few affectionate moments, is what drives the film forward.
Elphaba learns of the great city of emerald and its terrible truth about the politics of Oz and the oppression of anthropomorphic creatures. Given the options of either side, or in this case, of her ideals, Elphaba makes her choice, thus the beginning of the witch everyone has come to fear, the Wicked Witch. As much as it is entertaining, this story, which encompasses elements of friendship, treachery and bravery, is also very deep.
Exuberant and Enthralling Performances
Cynthia Erivo powerfully embodies the character of Elphaba, demonstrating the character’s depth, fragility persistence and strength. With her healing abilities, she eases the audiences’ contemptuous wraths towards a person misperceived by the society due to its biases. It goes without saying that her performance of such classics as Defying Gravity exceeds any imaginable limits.
Ariana Grande succeeds in managing her Galinda’s character in a way that makes the audience want to laugh with her due to her timing and humor. At times, she is able to show vanity yet not so long after render sincerity to the point that the character’s cuteness gets overwhelming. It is quite noticeable how Erivo and Grande get along with one another cementing the bonding of their characters on screen.
As Prince Fiyero Jonathan Bailey was quite captivating and convincing as a prince should be. The storyline, concerning his metamorphosis from a tiresome noble into an active supporter of the girls’ cause, also adds to the narrative.
Novelty and Music
Among its many marvelous aspects, the first thing to comment on is the rather fortifying worldbuilding in wicked. The elaborate fillings give life to incredible places not only campuses of shiz university definable as vast and expansive but also spinning streets of the emerald city. Production designer Nathan Crowley and the Director of Photography Alice Brooks have together made a wonderful oz that is beautiful and full of wonder as well as cinema.
The musical performances are also highly entertaining and well-choreographed. With regard to choreography it is pretty obvious that Jon M. Chu’s quality of work in the film ‘In the Heights’ is reflected in the superb dancing and camera work in their together. Yet, the fast pace brutal transitions of some shots here and there disturb the flow in few disturbances.
Small Imperfections in a Prospective Masterpiece
Despite the fact that Wicked is almost a flawless adaptation, there are still some issues that can be observed. There are however a few sound mixing problems, especially at the beginning during Ariana Grande’s voice-over and several other group performances – bout of the show which sadly ruins the enjoyment. Moreover, splitting the tale into two halves causes unwelcome anticipation as some parts of the plot are left hanging without any resolution until the second part is released.
Thematic Elements That Strike a Chord
Wicked is much more than a polished musical, with striking graphics and beautiful songs. It also addresses the issues of discrimination, abuse of power and accepting responsibility. Elphaba’s quest is similar to real-life battles with systemic oppression, which makes the film even more pertinent.
Final Verdict Wicked Movie Reviews
Wicked is a triumph of storytelling, performances, and visual artistry. Jon M. Chu has managed to honor the beloved stage musical while making it accessible and engaging for a new generation. With stellar performances, unforgettable songs, and a rich narrative, this adaptation soars to new heights.
If this first installment is any indication, the concluding chapter promises to be just as spellbinding. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Broadway show or a newcomer to the world of Oz, Wicked is a must-watch that will leave you eagerly anticipating Part 2.
Rating: 9/10
Don’t miss Wicked in theaters starting November 22, 2024!
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