“Are people born wicked or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?” 

Those familiar with the tale of Oz know the story of Dorthy being torn away from her home in Kansas and thrust into the magical world of green witches, mindless scarecrows, and cowardly lions. The Wizard of Oz (1939) film revolutionized the film industry with the popularity of on screen coloring and the success of the fantasy genre. Based on author L. Frank Baum’s story The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, inspiration took form in extension of the magical world, one that focused on the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda the Good. Wicked was first interpreted through literature as an adult retelling of Oz, speaking of the unlikely friendship and relationship between the two witches in the University of Shiz. Though the novel was not centralized by telling those who are familiar with the musical now, it created the base that later adapted on Broadway. After making its debut on the Broadway stage in 2003, Wicked has made one of the longest runs in the theater’s history. 

On November 4th, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande made an announcement of their casting in the film adaptation of Wicked, in their respective roles as The Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Two movies were confirmed with Wicked: Act 1 coming out on November 22, 2024 and dominating the box office. So much so, that Wicked passed Grease as the highest grossing movie musical based on a Broadway show. Now that momentum is currently making its pedal to the upcoming Oscar dates, both Cynthia and Ariana are both projected to have nominated spots in their respective categories for their astounding performances, and very much deserved.

Wicked Summary

Act 1 of Wicked focuses on its main protagonist, the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West. Elphaba Thropp arrives at Shiz University with the intention of dropping off her younger sister, Nessa, at her school. A peculiar detail about Elphaba that makes her stand out in the crowd is how her skin is green. Already on the fence, Elphaba is defensive and hostile towards those who are visibly startled or frightened by her appearance, marking her reputation further when she is forced to attend the school dedicated to magic. Upon being given a chance, she is paired to room with her polar opposite, Galinda Upland. The bubbly, privileged, and popular student is adamant on her loathing for Elphaba, and likewise. Throughout the first act, Galinda and Elphaba are both battling their hatred for one another as well as learning their compatibility. 

Review

The ultimate standout performance was Cynthia Erivo portraying Elphaba. There are multiple moments in which she takes the limelight with her outstanding vocal performance, and facial expressions which center around the deep pain and feelings her character expressed over the outcast she was made out to be. Beside her, Ariana Grande portrayed the ditzy character Galinda and gave her a lot of depth during the duration of the almost three hour film.