The long-awaited movie adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked Part 1 soared into theaters on Friday, November 22. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this adaptation of Gregory Maguire’s novel “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West” possesses the emotional satisfaction and magic that fans of the stage production have been craving while also expanding the narrative. Today, as American society stands largely divided, the Wicked message is relevant to speaking out for one’s beliefs, which is why this story resonates so much with fans as its themes feel timeless.
The world of Wicked has always been visually rich. This continues throughout the film with its larger-than-life tangible sets such as the mysterious Emerald City and the long rows of nine million real colorful tulips that guide us toward Munchkinland. The sets and elaborate design of the characters’ costumes display a degree of realism. This makes it possible to integrate them into a world so magical because the visual effects are not so overpowering that one cannot appreciate the enchanted realm of Oz or be engrossed in the adventures the characters undergo.
One might say that Cynthia Erivo captures the essence of Elphaba Thropp, a girl with green skin who’s been persecuted her whole life. Erivo adds something emotional to Elphaba and her strong vocals speak volumes. She is a star. Erivo starts with soft vocals in her introductory song “The Wizard and I” showing her character’s insecurity and longing to be accepted. By the end of the film, Erivo’s vocals are powerful and loud as seen in the song “Defying Gravity” showing that Elphaba is longing for freedom from the discrimination she’s faced since the day she was born. Elphaba is self-empowered, and she will not back down from what she believes. There is a reason that many see themselves in Elphaba as she represents someone who stands up for what is right, learns to love herself, and realizes that she is “unlimited.”

Ariana Grande who plays Galinda or Glinda the Good Witch, brings both humor and vulnerability into this role. Grande’s comedic timing is especially apparent in her song “Popular” in which she hangs on a chandelier, balances on a balcony railing, and high kicks her way into trying to make Elphaba more popular. At the heart of this superficiality, however, Glinda struggles with her morals, deciding on whether to stand by her friend as they try to expose the Wizard or stay in her “bubble” and not let her social status be affected. Both Grande and Erivo’s dynamic with each other is where they both shine as both characters grapple with their separate ideals and paths, wishing each other well and hoping they don’t regret the path they decide to take.
Another performance that was well done is Jonathan Bailey’s character, the swoon-worthy Prince Fiyero. This shallow and carefree character is known to be very one-note. In his song “Dancing Through Life”, Prince Fiyero talks about how if you don’t think too hard about your life, then you won’t get sad or depressed. Bailey gives the character a little more complexity and nuance, going above and beyond typical love interest.

The music of this musical, composed by Stephen Schwartz, takes on a new life in this film as the orchestra brings a new sound that brings a sense of darkness and urgency to the world of Oz. The lyrics also takes on a new meaning in today’s climate along with some of its themes.
The themes of this musical, identity and standing up for what’s right, have always been significant. In today’s climate, they have an increase in value as people are quick to judge and be discriminatory towards one another. What is also relevant about Wicked is the type of leadership that we are seeing today. Jeff Goldblum plays The Wizard, a character who serves as commentary on how leaders today prioritize their own agenda over the greater good of the country. The Wizard’s personality and darker side represent political figures who use fear and control to maintain power.

Wicked Part 1 does the Broadway adaptation justice. Thanks to the beautiful sets, great costumes, powerful soundtrack, and amazing performances by the cast, this beloved story is still relevant in today’s world. This film reminds us that we have the power to “defy gravity” and expectations, despite what the world tries to label us.