Wicked (Part One): A musical masterclass.

A Stunning Tribute to Musical Theatre: A Review of Wicked

Jon M. Chu’s Wicked is a cinematic triumph that masterfully translates the beloved stage musical into a lush, visually enchanting, and emotionally resonant film experience. Every frame is a feast for the senses, brimming with vibrant colors, energetic choreography, and tightly edited sequences that dazzle. The film’s commitment to its theatrical roots shines through in every aspect, celebrating not just the music but the very essence of what makes musical theatre a cherished art form.

A Love Letter to Musical Theatre

In an era where movie musicals often seem embarrassed by their origins, opting to downplay their musicality, Wicked boldly revels in its theatricality. From the opening notes of No One Mourns the Wicked to the grand finale, the film delights in its songs, dances, and campy charm. Chu’s direction embraces the genre's larger-than-life qualities, ensuring that every musical number feels like a spectacle in its own right. The choreography bursts with energy, and the score—performed with breathtaking skill—takes center stage, reminding audiences why Wicked has been a cultural phenomenon for nearly two decades.

Musical theatre fans, and fans of Wicked specifically will practically explode during "One Short Day", for reasons I won't spoil her but which involve two familiar women.

A Dark Core Beneath the Magic

While Wicked enchants with its magical setting and vibrant production, it doesn’t shy away from the darker themes that have always underpinned its story. At its heart, Wicked explores oppression, prejudice, and the insidious rise of fascism. These themes simmer beneath the surface for much of the runtime, but they come to the forefront through standout performances.

Peter Dinklage’s portrayal of Dr. Dillamond is profoundly moving, embodying the plight of marginalized groups with quiet dignity. As the charismatic but dangerous Wizard, Jeff Goldblum is mesmerizing. Goldblum captures the character’s affable facade, masking a manipulative and tyrannical core, with chilling precision. Together, their performances anchor the film’s exploration of systemic injustice, adding layers of depth to what could have been a straightforward fantasy tale.

Electrifying Chemistry and Star Turns

Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero is a revelation. His performance oozes charisma, and his magnetic presence on screen is impossible to ignore. Whether sharing the stage with Ariana Grande’s bubbly Glinda or Ethan Slater’s earnest Boq, Bailey has undeniable chemistry with every castmate. His charm and wit make Fiyero one of the most compelling characters, and his journey feels fresh and invigorating.

The true heart of the film, however, lies in its leading duo. Ariana Grande, as Glinda, silences every critic with a stunning turn. From the first note of No One Mourns the Wicked, Grande proves her vocal prowess, delivering operatic belts with precision and emotion. Her acting is equally impressive—balancing Glinda’s outwardly cheerful persona with the undercurrents of pain and loss. Grande’s comedic timing is impeccable, and her signature “Glindaisms” inject levity and charm into the story.

Yet, the undeniable star of Wicked is Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. Having seen Wicked multiple times on stage, I was unprepared for the depth and humanity Erivo brings to the role. Her Elphaba is warm, relatable, and heartbreakingly real. Erivo’s nuanced performance allows the audience to understand Elphaba’s choices, making her descent into the so-called “wickedness” both inevitable and deeply tragic. Her vocals are unparalleled, but it’s her emotional connection to the material that truly elevates her portrayal.

What surprised me most, however, was how effortlessly Erivo weaves comedy into her performance. Elphaba’s snarky humor is brought to the forefront here, adding a delightful new dimension to the character. From her sarcastic quips to sly asides, Erivo brings a sharp wit that lightens the mood at key moments without undercutting the story’s emotional stakes. We've all seen the iconic "I am" clip from the trailer, but there’s so much more. Elphaba’s humor is cheeky and self-aware, creating some of the film's most endearing moments. This balance of earnestness and playfulness makes her transformation at the end all the more devastating, as you feel the loss of the spirited young woman she once was.

A Relationship That Soars

The relationship between Glinda and Elphaba is the cornerstone of Wicked, and Grande and Erivo bring it to life with extraordinary authenticity. Their on-screen chemistry is electric, and their off-screen camaraderie infuses their performances with genuine affection. The friendship, rivalry, and eventual reconciliation between their characters is the emotional heartbeat of the film, and it resonates powerfully. Moments of humor—like a particularly funny exchange about broomstick flight—further highlight their bond and bring a warmth to their dynamic that makes the final act all the more poignant.

Minor Flaws in a Near-Perfect Gem

No film is without its flaws, and Wicked has a few minor missteps. The sound design, while generally solid, occasionally feels muted, leaving some musical moments lacking the punch they deserve. Additionally, the screenplay’s clever nods to Wicked’s stage roots and the broader Oz mythology might feel overly targeted at die-hard fans, potentially alienating newcomers.

The decision to split the story into two parts is understandable, given the film’s ambition and scope, but it does lead to some pacing issues. The second act, in particular, could have benefited from tighter editing, as it occasionally feels bloated. Trimming 10 to 15 minutes might have enhanced the narrative flow without sacrificing depth.

A Masterpiece of the Genre

Despite these minor quibbles, Wicked is nothing short of a masterpiece. Jon M. Chu’s meticulous direction cements him as the Peter Jackson of musical adaptations, crafting a film as epic and immersive as The Lord of the Rings. For fans of musical theatre, Wicked sets a new gold standard, blending dazzling spectacle with profound emotional resonance.

From its stunning visuals and powerhouse performances to its celebration of the magic of musical theatre, Wicked is a film that demands to be seen—and heard. It’s a joyous, heartbreaking, and unforgettable experience that will leave audiences counting down the days until the second installment. Five stars.