Introduction
One of the most hotly awaited movies of 2024, Wicked, was released in India on November 22. The film is based on the hit Broadway musical spirited by the 1995 novel called Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, authored by Gregory Maguire. This film narrates the story of the witches of the Land of Oz. With impressive animations, a moving plot, and catchy tracks, Wicked has literally relocated viewers to the dreamland of Oz. The scope of the world built, the stunning acting, and the songs full of strong emotions move the audience in a way that makes this movie a classic in the making.
The musical opened its first show on Broadway in 2003 and soon became a blockbuster. It appeals not only to humor and sentiment but also the emotional recreation of the familiar plot based on The Wizard of Oz. Notably, it is a sequel to the Wicked film, aimed at enthralling audiences with the magic of the land of Oz for the young viewers.
Release Date
The movie first debuted in Indian cinemas on November 22, 2024, a date that for many fans was worth the anticipation and the wait as it was the first leaked glimpse of the film before it was officially set to world premiere the next day. Release of this particular movie was bound to create a buzz around it owing to its history of being adapted in a stageplay that itself was a major hit around the globe. The diehard fans of the stage show as well as the new audience, wanting to enter the wicked universe turned out in huge numbers, ready to relish an incredible take on Wizard of oz.
Another facet of the hype around the release of it indeed was quite jaw-dropping for musical fans in India, who due to the Broadway’s major expansion in the country through this prequel adaptation had gained interest in the West pursuing such stories. The extremely happy fans now happily waited for the chance and the release of the iconic story on the cinema screen.
Film Location
Wicked in filming, spanned several countries around the world, with gorgeous set designs that immersed viewers into the land of Oz. Most of Oz film was filmed in New Zealand as it was easily one of the top places to film any motion picture due to its flora and fauna. With high mountains, lively forests and broad fields, it was an ideal setting for the quirky world of Oz that was created.
The filmmakers further harnessed state of the art sets and green-screen techniques conveniently tackling the difficult nature of filmmaking and the Oz fantasy world setting in the movie. Some scenes were also filmed in the United Kingdom where big studio sets were built for the purpose of creating the magical other-worldly elements that is synonymous with Oz. The end product is such a ‘feast’ that it complements the story telling and dares the watchers to be part of the magic.
Song
One of the film’s highlights, and certainly that of the Wicked film adaptation, is of course the music. The musical too featured several signature pieces composed by Stephen Schwartz, which is among the best known songs from the wizard of oz broadway work. Over the years these numbers have become household favorites and their absence in the film would have been of serious detriment for the fans, more so, the film will not be as thrilling as it is. Music is integral to Wicked, including ‘Defying Gravity’ and ‘For Good’ which have been sung by the actors before and are still used, while Wicked’s message remains the same, it rather enhanced the character’s emotions.
One remarkable moment that stands out in this movie is the splendid, “Defying Gravity,” as performed by Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo). The song marks a shift in the climatic development of the story in which Elphaba explains how she has always strived to be in society yet aims to stand out. It is an electrifying moment and as Erivo sings the song, she does it with the right combination of strength and vulnerability.
Also, the aspect of comical relief is well taken care of by Blinda’s (Ariana Grande) “Popular”. Apart from the competitive nature of the two witches, the song is filled with comedy and that is what makes this song one of the best parts of the film. And once again, Grande raises the bar with her comedic timing along with vocals, making the song even more delightful.
Director
The musical Wicked , directed by Jon M. Chu is based on a book by Gregory Maguire. for readers unaware, Jon M. Chu is someone who is also known for Crazy Rich Asians and in the heights. By looking at his work in the above two movies, it can be known that Chu has a distinct style of direction, as he is able to retain the originality while making it new and stylish. Also, looking at the visuals of the above two movies, it is quite possible that Jon was the right director for the film.
Given his experience in stage musicals and his skill in visual storytelling, Chu demonstrates an ability to amplify the scale of Wicked. He makes the awe-inspiring fantasy of Oz and the simple emotions of its’ characters co-exist. His directorial approach makes the dream world both physically and psychologically big, creating a perfect amalgamation of drama and characters’ drama.
Producer
Wicked was produced by Marc Platt, who has been known for succeeding in adaptations, for instance, La La Land and Into the Woods. Platt’s background in the musical and film industry clearly assisted everybody in not only preserving the idea of Broadway in this adaptation but also doing everything that should be done for film viewing.
He did mainly supervise the production so that Wicked would not counter the stage and would be a complete Oz on the screen. Platt collaborated with the film’s creative team to accomplish the achievement of proper synchronization of music, special effects, and acting in order to create magic for the audience.
Cast
There are a lot of things to look forward in the movie ‘Wicked’ but one of the most important of those is definitely the cast of the movie. The cast of the movie includes Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the axes and the misunderstood wicked witch of the west while Ariana Grande is playing the role of Glinda, who is the most adored good witch of the north. Both the actresses have a lot of original talent and charm to play in their respective characters, and this makes them much more than just a person who nails the looks of the iconic characters.
Erivo as Elphaba is spectacular. She puts on the show not only with her looks but pulls everyone in with the convincing voice acting. The best part was watching her portray Elphaba’s perpetual battle to be free yet accepted, and doing all this while staying true to our favorite version of Elphaba herself. There is surprising strength to her voice which comes off as an additional blessing for the role, especially during the musical parts of the film which are heavily charged with emotions.
On the other hand, Grande injects an element of fun into her character Glinda, who is already quite cute. The movie however takes a different perspective and shows how Glinda, also called ‘the good witch’, has troubles of her own in navigating through the world. Grande successfully embodies the role and nailed her vocal skills which she used perfectly to deliver the humor and charm that the character possessed.
Lessee in the cast: the Wizard played by Jeff Goldblum, Madame Morrible played by Michelle Yeoh and Fiyero played by Jonathan Bailey. All performers bring something to the stage further to the Oz’s universe.
Trailer
Fans got enthused at the sight of the trailer for the Wicked movie. The trailer provided a view of the Extra-ordinary Universe of OZ with its magnificent scenery, exciting costumes and amazing VFX. There were also the classic scenes in the movie which were teased, such as the flight of Elphaba and the famous song, ‘Defying Gravity’.
The trailer also set out the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda with the two seemingly opposite characters working together. Their relationship is the crux of the story; the teaser showcased a promising beginning for their relationship and how it would develop in the film.
Pilot
It’s understandable why the Wicked franchise has such a devoted following, but it is amusing that a TV series has been announced as that doesn’t really fit the narrative. This tell of witches and their war set in the universe of Oz does deserve a bigger screen than the goggle boxes. Shamefully so, there have been many of such films made, but they always tend to flop in effective storytelling. This time around with a movie set to release, the plot and its intended target audience seems to be a lot brighter than before.
Reviews
The Witchcraft musical had commenced gathering attention long before it was even released. The emotional attachment of the audience was profound as they understood the cast and acting with aid from posters bearing Arian Grande & Cynthia Erivo. Not that they are bad actresses but one could say that there is potential they have yet to be unlocked. Therefore, having the duo starring did boost the ratings even before the movie was released, A risky move, but one that paid off.
Having said that I will agree with the critics that Ornate set pieces bore into the emotions of the audience. Imagine that coupled with underline themes being portrayed beautifully in song form, one has quite the set up. Although I would agree with the critics that focusing on inner themes of the story would add new depth in development, but there is a line. There is a reason why this universe of gandalf and elijah is not as popular among movie goers.
Yet, some people have complained that the rhythm of the film is uneven at times particularly in the second act, when the film goes deeper into the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda. Despite this, the global consensus has been almost universally in the positive with Wicked receiving recognition as a successful cinematic adaptation of a musical work.
Conclusion
To sum up, Wicked is one such film that surely casts a spell and touches people’s hearts wherein they come across theatrical production that transforms Broadway musical into something true to its roots yet in very much inventive. A strong cast combined with beautiful imagery and a great soundtrack allows the film to highlight the wondrous land of Oz where themes of friendship, self, and rebellion abound.
Bad reviews or barriers from the world won’t limit Wicked as it’s one masterpiece that should be watched, whether loved or hated on Broadway stage, how can someone not witness the beauty Wicked has. It’s successfully immersive both in India and the other parts of the world, Wicked has shown that her magic is nowhere near broken and will still enchant viewers forever.
