From the 1939 film to the 1995 Gregory Maguire novel, the wizards and witches of Oz have gone through many a revamp. Bringing the Broadway sensation of the “Wicked” musical to the silver screen in a two-part adaptation is a star-studded company who succeeds in one of the very best movie musical adaptations to date.
Stunning vocal performances all around allow the viewer to almost completely disregard the runtime of nearly three hours. In all honesty, the film is entirely rewatchable. This timeless quality is further enhanced by the dynamic duo that exists within its iconic leading ladies.
Cynthia Erivo, for one, truly takes to the air with Elphaba‘s character. The actress employs the masterful vocal control and resonance that she became synonymous with during her run as Celie on Broadway’s “The Color Purple.” If this stellar performer is not already, this newest film could very well be what turns Erivo’s into a household name.
Likewise, Ariana Grande glitters and glows in her portrayal of both Galinda’s bubbly nature and inner conflict. She establishes her lovable character as someone who has been practically hit over the head with how good of a person she is, but who now is being forced to confront the possibility of her humanity and imperfection. Galinda undergoes a metamorphosis that Grande’s years of on screen acting experience make crystal clear.
Director Jon M. Chu seems to find fulfillment through a rich cinematic style that completely envelops the audience in his world’s reverie. I was reminded of the decadence of his “Crazy Rich Asians” through his persistent tendency to pause and allow his audience to take in each scene. After all, it is the invigorating dance sequences and luxurious scenery shots that brings this Broadway classic to life in delightfully fresh, vibrant definition. However, there is such a thing as too much creative liberty. Although the breaks during songs translate well in the first, expository half of the film, their lingering presence in the latter section serves mostly as blatant, unpleasant reminders of the film’s status as an adaptation. Especially when the vocalization takes a break in the middle of a well-known verse, the dissonance between old and new is made unfortunately obvious. The movie musical has proved to otherwise be harmonious, any thespian’s dream come true. Even so, all viewers, including those largely unfamiliar with the magic of the stage musical, will be able to admire the parallels set up between Dorothy’s tale and this one as an insightful setup for the former.
As of New Years Eve, Amazon Prime has begun to offer the renting or buying of the film. Until its sequel, “Wicked: For Good,” is released on November 21, 2025, this is the extent of the magic we have been granted. To tide fans over, this Prime purchase includes behind-the-scenes content and a sing-along option on laptop and mobile devices. The karaoke can be toggled on or off depending on how theatrical you are feeling during your watch. In truth, though, anyone with the heart or the ears for good music will be unable to make it through the credits without at least humming a tune or two.
