“Wicked”
PG/Musical/160 Mins
Directed by: Jon M. Chu
Written by: Winnie Holzman & Dana Fox
Starring: Cynthia Erivo (“Bad Times at the El Royale”), Ariana Grande-Butera (“Don’t Look Up”), Jonathan Bailey (“Bridgerton”), Michelle Yeoh (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Jeff Goldblum (“Asteroid City”), Ethan Slater (“SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical”), Marissa Bode (“You’re Adorable”), Peter Dinklage (“Cyrano”)
Review: If you’re looking for a super-credible review for “Wicked: Part I” you’ve come to the right place! As yours truly is part of the long line of actors who have portrayed the dashing Prince Fiyero in a performance of the original stage show. Erm, let me rephrase that. I portrayed Fiyero…in a 7th grade theater class read through of the Broadway script with the soundtrack played on a speaker for the musical numbers because none of us could sing…
I did however see an immaculate performance of “Wicked” on its Broadway tour which jump started my love for theater and musicals. So this fan is happy to report that this film delivered and went above and beyond my expectations.
“Wicked” (titled onscreen as Part I of a two Part adaptation), is a story of the unlikely friendship between two witches named Elphaba and Glinda. Elphaba, born with green skin, is alienated from society. Glinda is popular and loved by all. By the time they start their time as students at Shiz University, the two begin their relationship as rivals due to their differences. However, after some time, they settle their issues and they start to form a sisterhood. Shortly after, Elphaba is invited to meet the mysterious Wizard of Oz. Taking Glinda with her, the two find their journey to be the defining moments of the witches they famously become.
In regards to adapting a book, play, video game, they are not always the most faithful. Changing sequence of events, character’s personalities, taking out special moments, this is what fans of beloved properties are most scared of. If “Wicked” did change things (big or small) but retained what made the show special, I would have walked out mostly satisfied. However, the biggest compliment I can give this film is that it IS a near perfect adaptation of the Broadway show. Since the film is split into two, it’s able to keep all those special moments loved by fans and include all the songs theater kids from around the world know by heart…it’s all there. Director Jon M. Chu tooks the essence of the show and translated it perfectly for the big screen. It truly feels like it was ripped right off the stage onto a cinematic wonderland that’s a feast for the eyes.
This is also attributed to the pitch perfect (no pun intended) casting of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande-Butera as Elphaba Thropp & Galinda Upland. Erivo captures the spirit of Elphaba who is known as strong, independent and vulnerable. She elevates the original material in an even more emotionally powerful way. Her performance will blow you away and leave you in tears. Cynthia’s performance of the film’s climax musical number, “Defying Gravity”, is one of the most powerful and emotionally affecting moments I’ve ever experienced in a theater.
I’m not going to lie, I was skeptical about Ariana when she was announced as Glinda. She is a talented singer and she was funny/a good actor back when she was on Nickelodeon. However, I was concerned that it was a stunt casting and it was going to be mega pop star “Ariana Grande as Glinda” not just her embodying the character. I think I read in an interview somewhere where she had the same fears/choice of words and wanted to do the character justice. Not that I was just plain wrong, but she absolutely did this beloved character justice and then some. Watching Grande on screen, I didn’t see the pop star, I SAW Glinda. She embodies the character so perfectly right down to every mannerism and unique personality, capturing the humor, and playfulness of this layered character. Both actresses are truly amazing and I couldn’t imagine better castings for this cinematic adaptation.
Another MVP is Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero. This man oozes charisma and has chemistry with just about every character he interacts with. The second he appears at Shiz University, he commands the screen with his presence. His standout musical number of “Dancing Through Life”, is also one of the most fun and visually appealing sequences of the entire film. I’m just surprised he was able to top my performance of the character…just kidding.
The lasting effect of the original Broadway show isn’t just the incredible story but the songs that comprise the soundtrack. Instead of updating it to sound more modern or even less “musically,” aside from a few changed lyrics, the arrangements stay the same. This film felt like I was just watching a cinematic Broadway musical. Right down to the show stopping crescendo of “Defying Gravity” that brought the house down to a powerful climax at the end of Act One of the stage show. Like the play, this Part One of Two comprises the first act of the show and ends on the same note. Unfortunately, instead of stepping to the theater lobby for a 15 minute intermission, we have to wait a year to see “Act Two.” However, I think the wait will be worth it and I can’t wait to see how they adapt the second half of the show for the big screen. I already know I will be a blubbering mess when Erivo and Grande perform “For Good” in 12 months time.
Only complaint I really have for this film is the color grading at times. Visually, this film is stunning and dazzling. Yet, I did at times find the color to be lacking and wished Chu mimicked the Technicolor look of the 1939 original “Wizard of Oz” to give it just the extra effect. Other than that, this film is near flawless.
If you’re looking for a film to watch with the fam (or you’re trying to get away from them) on Thanksgiving I think there is no better option than to see “Wicked.” If you love musicals, this is for you. If you don’t? I think this one could be the one that converts you. And then you’ll be just like me, humming and singing the lyrics to the songs around the workplace to the annoyance of your co-workers.
Score: 9.5/10
“Wicked” is in theaters now!
