The success of 1939’s “The Wizard of Oz” sprouted “Wicked,” a novel later adapted to become a Broadway production. “Wicked,” written by Gregory Maguire, came out in 1995 before being adapted for Broadway in 2003. Both the novel and on-stage performances led to the release of the film adaptation of “Wicked.” The first half of this story was released into theaters on Nov. 22, with the second half to be released next Thanksgiving. In my opinion, “Wicked” was a cinematic masterpiece worthy of a trip to the movie theater for musical lovers, casual movie-goers and young and old alike.
The movie adaptation of “Wicked” follows the origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West, Glinda the Good Witch and many other memorable characters from the original “The Wizard of Oz.” Ariana Grande, famous for her pop music and young start on Nickelodeon, was cast as Glinda, and Cynthia Erivo, a British actress and singer who sprung onto the scene in 2018, was cast as Elphaba, later known as the Wicked Witch.
My first complement of the movie was the visual aspects. From the multitudes of colors in the Munchkin village to the extensive use of green in the Emerald City, the appearance of the scenery was very easy on the eyes. Alongside that, each costume was intricate and planned specifically for each character’s personality and traits. My absolute favorite costume designs were the light, flowy dresses worn by Glinda. I feel as if they represented her rich, carefree attitude perfectly while Elphaba’s stiff, black-dominant wardrobe represents her smart, short-tempered personality.
Outside of the visual aspects, the acting performances were phenomenal. When casting a movie-musical, I feel as if it is difficult to find someone who looks the part, can act well and sing beautifully at the same time. However, the “Wicked” casting directors did just that. Erivo has a long portfolio of historic acting and singing performances. Erivo gained recognition from winning the 2016 Tony Award for Best Actress and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album for her performance in “The Color Purple” on Broadway. Grande has an extensive performing career as well. From childhood acting to numerous platinum songs, Grande knows her way around Hollywood. Alongside Erivo and Grande were a plethora of notable Broadway actors. “Wicked” perfectly demonstrates what a movie musical can become when the roles are cast with the actors’ qualifications in mind.
The plot was engaging, the songs were memorable and the characters were endearing. Many movies adapted from renowned media sources rarely live up to the expectations placed upon them. In the case of “Wicked,” each expectation I, and many others, had was met and exceeded. I only hope that the next part can be just as good, if not better, next Thanksgiving.
