Wicked Movie Review

Wicked (2024) is the first installment of a two-part film adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway musical, which itself was based on Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film delves into the untold story of Elphaba, the misunderstood "Wicked" Witch of the West, and her complex friendship with Glinda, the Good Witch.

🌪️ Plot Summary of Wicked (2024):

The story begins in the land of Oz, before Dorothy ever arrives. Elphaba is born with green skin and faces prejudice and rejection from an early age. She is intelligent, passionate, and misunderstood—traits that set her apart at Shiz University, where she meets the beautiful, popular, and ambitious Glinda.

At first, the two girls clash due to their differences, but over time, a deep friendship forms. However, their bond is tested by:

• Political corruption in Oz

• The manipulative Wizard

• Conflicting views about justice and power

Elphaba becomes disillusioned with the Wizard’s regime after discovering his cruel experiments and propaganda, particularly the silencing of talking animals like her beloved teacher, Doctor Dillamond. Determined to fight back, she is labeled “Wicked” for standing up for what’s right.

Meanwhile, Glinda chooses the path of social conformity and influence, ascending to fame and power by aligning with the Wizard’s administration—even though it means losing Elphaba.

The film explores themes of:

• Prejudice and injustice

• Female friendship and rivalry

• The cost of integrity

• How history paints heroes and villains

The story culminates in Elphaba’s dramatic flight during “Defying Gravity”, where she fully embraces her outsider status. The ending teases further developments in Wicked Part Two (slated for release in 2025), which will cover the fall of Oz’s regime and Elphaba’s ultimate fate.

🎭 Cast & Characters

• Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp

• Ariana Grande as Galinda Upland

• Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero

• Ethan Slater as Boq

• Bowen Yang as Shiz University student

• Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum in supporting roles

📅 Release & Reception

• Theatrical Release: November 22, 2024

• Premiere: State Theatre, Sydney, Australia

• Box Office: Grossed over $1.2 billion globally, making it the highest-grossing musical film adaptation and the fifth-highest-grossing film of 2024

• Critical Acclaim: Received a 93% critic score and a 99% verified audience score on Rotten Tomatoes

• Awards: Won Best Film at the National Board of Review Awards 2024

🎶 Musical Highlights

The film features several iconic songs from the original musical, including:

• "Defying Gravity": Cynthia Erivo's powerful rendition of this anthem showcases Elphaba's defiance and determination.

• "Popular": Ariana Grande brings her signature flair to this comedic number, highlighting Galinda's charm and wit.

• "For Good": A heartfelt duet that underscores the deep bond between Elphaba and Galinda.

Director Jon M. Chu has emphasized that the film's format allows for real flying scenes, enhancing the visual spectacle of these musical numbers.

📺 Where to Watch

Wicked is available for streaming on Disney+, and can also be purchased or rented through various digital platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.