Wicked, the long-awaited film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, premiered on November 22, 2024, marking the start of its cinematic celebration. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film has swept the box office with staggering success, grossing over $335.5 million domestically and amassing $459 million worldwide to date.
Adapted from Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the screenplay was crafted by original Broadway musical book writer Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, who co-wrote Cruella. Since its Broadway debut in 2003, starring Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, Wicked has won three Tony Awards and garnered global acclaim, bringing its total earnings to around $6 billion across different regions.
The film explores the origins of the iconic witches of Oz: Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo, and Glinda, played by Ariana Grande. Their enchanting friendship begins at Shiz University, where they navigate their identities, power struggle, and, eventually, fate—a narrative driven by deep emotional currents and prevailing social themes.
Director Jon M. Chu embraced the challenge of adapting the original work, stating, "For years, Winnie and I would say, ‘For the movie, we should do this…’”. The team worked tirelessly to stay true to the musical's core spirit, making thoughtful revisions where necessary.
This adaptation performs the dual task of remaining faithful to the storyline, all the While exploring new depths. Holzman expressed her enthusiasm by saying, "It was an incredible opportunity for Stephen and I to revisit this world," indicating a desire to explore aspects of the narrative more deeply and with greater nuance.
Inevitably, audiences and critics alike are buzzing about the creative choices made for musical sequences. One significant change resides within the song One Short Day, which undergoes enhancement with new verses and extended segments adding layers to its meaning. Celebrated Broadway legends Menzel and Chenoweth reprise their roles as the Emerald City Players, introducing powerful imagery and themes surrounding the Wizard's conman nature and the nature of Elphaba’s powers.
During this sequence, the Emerald City Players perform about the Wizard's origins, weaving insights from Oz's mystical history. This unique perspective frames the Wizard as not merely a figure of authority but as someone enmeshed with the land's legacy—further complicaling the narrative for viewers. The new verse enhances the significance of the Grimmerie, which serves as more than just a plot device this time around, highlighting Elphaba’s connection and the stakes involved. This entanglement enriches the viewer's appreciation for the story's darker nuances.
Simultaneously, Grande and Erivo have engaged audiences by discussing the themes of queerness within their characters’ relationship. Grande mentioned her feelings about Glinda possibly being "a little in the closet" concerning her affections for Elphaba, affirming how their friendship serves as "a truth and such a safe space for one another". The depth and complexity of their camaraderie invite viewers to interpret their bond through various lenses, intersecting love and companionship.
The chemistry between the two actresses on set was palpable, with Chu reflecting on their performances and connection: "There's something in the alchemy of Wicked, you can talk to any cast about this, the Elphabas and Glindas are always very different and yet they share … power". Their dynamic has drawn significant attention, capturing the hearts of fans and reinforcing the notion of their relationship taking on new meanings.
Wicked captures the essence of empowerment, identity struggles, and resilience against prejudice, with its themes resounding powerfully against contemporary societal challenges. The film not only breathes new life to the beloved story but also challenges audiences with its potent commentary on systemic oppression.
Preparing for its sequel, set to release on November 21, 2025, Wicked has positioned itself firmly as not just commercial success but also as cultural commentary—a dual accomplishment rarely seen in film adaptations. The film is playing now, ready to take audiences back to Oz one magical experience at a time.
