Movie Review: An Early Screening of Wicked

The Wizard of Oz in all its technicolor glory, shaped the childhoods of many – and so many people are anxiously awaiting the release of the film, inspired by its Broadway show and 1939 original film predecessor, on November 22. I was lucky enough to get an early movie screening, and it was worth every minute.

The story follows the “Wicked Witch of the West” and “Glinda the Good Witch,” before they became the two iconic witches we know from the original movie. As this movie only follows the first act of the Broadway show, it only depicts their time at Shiz University, where they form an unlikely friendship. The second movie of this installment will follow the second act and will be released next year. With all this build-up, the real question is, should you watch Wicked in theaters now? 

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo play Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. These two powerhouses shaped the film and made it worth the watch. 

Erivo’s vocals were extraordinary, and her rendition of Defying Gravity left the entire theater in tears. Through her actions and emotions, Erivo brings Elphaba’s complexity to life, making her a relatable character who is misunderstood for simply being different.

Grande completely distances herself from her pop persona and truly becomes Glinda. She perfectly captures the bubbly persona that makes Glinda who she is — while also adding a new level of depth and emotion to the well-known character.

While the performances are central to the film, the visual and musical elements are just as important in creating the immersive experience.

Every song and dance sequence transports you to the world of Broadway. The detail that went into every shot, sequence and number was phenomenal, allowing the audience to feel like they were right there with the characters. A personal favorite of mine was when the two female protagonists sang their first duet, “What Is This Feeling,” as it perfectly meshed the tone of a Broadway show tune with the grandeur and beauty that film can add to a story.

Director John M. Chu was incredible at bringing the story to life. Fun fact: all the sets were real. The opening shot of the film shows rows and rows of poppies, all of which were planted for that single shot. Not only did this help the actors get into character, but it also drew the audience into the world of Oz and allowed us to feel as if we were dancing in the Ozdust ballroom and exploring the streets of the Emerald City (when you go see the movie, you will understand).

At two hours and 40 minutes in length, the runtime might seem daunting, but the intriguing and fast-paced story makes the time fly by! I truly did not want it to end.

If and when you go see the movie, keep an eye out for a bunch of fun easter eggs that are hidden and scattered throughout the film. I promise you will not want to miss them. Also, if you listen to the songs closely, you might hear some familiar melodies and tunes.

Trust me when I say, this movie is a must-watch. I urge you to go to the theater to truly experience the wonderful world of Oz that has been created. 

As I am walking the streets, singing Defying Gravity to myself for the third day in a row, I hope that everyone is wearing their pink and green (they go well together, evidently), and running to watch the movie on opening night.