Hold on to your broomsticks, folks, because Wicked: The Movie is nothing short of spellbinding! It’s like the tornado in The Wizard of Oz—except instead of flinging you into chaos, it hurls you into a dazzling, emotional, and vocally flawless extravaganza.
Let’s talk vocals. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo? They’re not just hitting notes; they’re bending reality. Ariana’s crystal-clear soprano and Cynthia’s powerhouse pipes are like musical sorcery. Forget “defying gravity”; they’re defying the very limits of our ear drums.
Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba? Perfection. Her character’s journey from outcast to Oz celebrity is so well-paced, it feels like a masterclass in storytelling. And those braids? Such a powerful, symbolic choice. Sure, she’s green, but her struggles mirror real-world experiences faced by marginalized communities. It’s giving representation, it’s giving nuance, and yes, it’s giving wokeeeeeeeeeee!
And then there’s Ariana Grande, who was shockingly good. Playing the bubbly, air-headed Glinda, she nails every giggle, hair flip, and “oh my!” But what really shines is her transformation into a humbler, deeper character. Who knew the pop princess had such comedic and emotional chops?
Together, Ariana and Cynthia are cinematic dynamite. Their chemistry is the heart of this movie—whether they’re bickering, bonding, or belting out harmonies that could unite warring nations. Their friendship is the emotional anchor, and their voices blend like magic. Honestly, someone bottle that synergy and sell it.
Shoutout to Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum, who add some veteran flair to the cast. Just when they’re starting to sink their teeth into the story, it shifts gears—but hey, we’ve got a sequel to look forward to, so fingers crossed for more screen time!
Visually, this movie is a feast. The costumes are a kaleidoscope of vibrant brilliance, and the sets capture the whimsical, dreamlike essence of Oz perfectly. The Emerald City sequence? Jaw-dropping. Between the dazzling choreography and the larger-than-life energy, I wanted to pack my bags and move there immediately. The music is another highlight. The songs don’t just honor the West End production—they elevate it. I’m confident even the most die-hard theatre fans would tip their hats (or wands) in approval.
And let me just say: practical effects over CGI? Chef’s kiss. Don’t get me wrong, CGI has its place, but here, it’s used sparingly and only to enhance the incredible practical work. That balance makes the world feel tangible, magical, and utterly immersive.
One last thing—don’t even think about skipping the stage production because you’ve seen the film. They’re two sides of the same, dazzling coin, and trust me, you’ll want to experience both.
In short, Wicked: The Movie isn’t just a cinematic triumph—it’s an event. So, grab your broomsticks, your tissues, and your vocal cords (you’ll want to sing along). This one’s a must-watch.