The magic of “Wicked” has translated to the silver screen.
Retelling the same story as the musical, which has been a Broadway hit since 2003, “Wicked” has taken theaters by storm since being released on Nov. 22. And for good reason.
Like the musical, the film features Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) as they study sorcery at Shiz University, creativity a unique novelty of the college experience with the magic of Oz.
How excitifying! (as Glinda might say).
Glinda is a preppy, peppy, pampered, pretty and pink, princess-esque, pastry-loving person akin to “Legally Blonde’s” Elle Woods or Sookie St. James from “Gilmore Girls”.
Conversely, Elphaba, wearing her baggy black clothes, is brooding and withdrawn like “The Addams Family’s” Wednesday Adams or Winifred Sanderson from “Hocus Pocus”.
The exposition begins with the first day at Shiz, where a professor by the name of Madame Morrible invites Elphaba to her sorcery seminar.
Looking for an opportunity to be included in the seminar, Glinda kisses-up to Madame Morrible, offering to room with Elphaba.
The rest of the film is all about showcasing the relationship between Glinda and Elphaba. Their respective tropes of popular girl and outcast are fun to explore.
But toward the end of the film, the two visit the Wizard and the tone shifts, as viewers learn a dark truth behind Oz’s wizard.
Viewers are left with many questions, but that’s to be expected, as this is only part one of the story. But not to worry, for “Wicked: Part Two” will be released on Nov. 21, 2025, according to an article by Forbes.
My main concern had to do with the sorcery major.
Why isn’t it more popular!? (pun intended).
In “Wicked”, it’s assumed that sorcery is something anyone can do. While Elphaba may hold a special aptitude for magic compared to others, Glinda is evidence that anyone can learn the craft.
In the film, viewers never see Glinda perform a spell, and her professor has serious doubts that she ever will.
Yet during the events of “The Wizard of Oz”, Glinda is regarded as one of the best witches, equal to Elphaba.
But Elphaba and Glinda are the only two mentioned to be taking on the sorcery major. If anyone could float a coin or brew a potion, why study anything else?
Organic chemistry over witchcraft?
Be so for real.
Regardless of gripes, all the actors went above and beyond, which is especially surprising considering that Grande, whose Hollywood track record is bland at best, put forth an outstanding performance.
Overall, “Wicked” is a wonderfully charming production which gives the musical the recognition it deserves.
Endearing, mystical and engaging, “Wicked” makes 160 minutes feel quicker than a trip down the yellow brick road.
