First off, Lorna Luft, the daughter of Judy Garland herself, gave this musical favourable reviews! Garland famously played Dorothy Gale in the Wizard of Oz in 1939, which was a critical success and was nominated for five Academy Awards.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked went through several delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, before finally finding its footing and concluded filming just last year. This movie retells the first act of the beloved broadway, The Wizard of Oz’s story, but from the perspective of the Wicked Witch of the West. And in this version of the tale, we call her Elphaba Thropp (played by the brilliant Cynthia Erivo).
Ostracized and shunned due to the green colour of her skin, Elphaba is used to the discrimination and loneliness, and Erivo elevates Elphaba’s emotions through her expressive eyes, soaring vocals, and closed-off demeanour. It’s important to note that while this film is purely fantasy, this issue directly reflects racism that is still prevalent in today’s society.
And on the opposite side of the spectrum of Elphaba Thropp, sits Galinda Upland, played by Ariana Grande. Now, many forget that before turning into one of today’s most influential pop music figures, Grande was an actress first (Nickelodeon’s Cat Valentine, anyone?) and she brings the vapid, superficial, but kind Galinda to life, in all her pink and glamourous splendour! Playing opposite Erivo’s Elphaba, the two bring perfect chemistry as friends, despite their clashing points of views. Watching their friendship grow and change themselves as individuals is truly magical, and at times, even tearful.
This musical is full to the brim of glorious storytelling through catchy tunes, with sprinkles of humour, and lots of heart. You can expect to hear renditions of your favourite numbers performed by Erivo and Grande, such as Defying Gravity and Popular!
So head over to the nearest cinemas and let the magic begin! Also, this film is split into two parts with Wicked – Part 2 releasing next year, so be sure to watch out for that one, too, when the time comes!
*Cover image and images via Universal Pictures