The much-anticipated movie adaptation of the hit Broadway musical Wicked is set to be one of the standout films of 2024. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the mastermind behind Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, Wicked (2024) brings to life the beloved story of the witches of Oz in a new cinematic format that fans have been waiting for. With a stellar cast, breathtaking visuals, and the timeless story of friendship, love, and power, this movie promises to be an exciting blend of music, magic, and drama that could enchant both new audiences and long-time fans of the musical.
The Story of Wicked
For those unfamiliar with the story, Wicked is based on the novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire, which reimagines the classic Wizard of Oz tale from the perspective of the witches. The story focuses on Elphaba, the misunderstood and green-skinned girl who would later become the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch of the North.
Set in the magical land of Oz, Wicked explores the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda during their school years, long before Dorothy’s arrival. It delves into how the two witches navigate the politics of their world, their struggles with power, identity, and destiny, and the challenges that ultimately lead to their paths diverging. Elphaba, once an idealistic and compassionate figure, becomes feared and labeled "wicked," while Glinda ascends to fame and power, beloved by all.
The movie, like the stage musical, is not just a retelling of the Wizard of Oz story. It serves as a prequel, shedding light on the origins of these iconic characters and the complexities that shaped their lives. The central themes of friendship, prejudice, and the consequences of power remain as relevant as ever.
The Cast: A Star-Studded Line-Up
One of the key aspects driving the anticipation for Wicked (2024) is its star-studded cast. The casting of Elphaba and Glinda has been the subject of much speculation, but the production has landed two talented actors to fill these roles.
Cynthia Erivo, the award-winning actress known for her powerful performances in Harriet and The Color Purple, takes on the role of Elphaba. Her vocal prowess and dramatic range have made her a standout choice for this complex character. Erivo's portrayal of Elphaba is expected to bring depth, vulnerability, and strength to the role, ensuring that the green-skinned witch’s story is both relatable and compelling.
Opposite her, Ariana Grande plays Glinda, the bubbly, popular, and glamorous witch. Grande, known for her powerful voice and her career as a pop superstar, has long been a fan of Wicked, and her casting as Glinda has generated excitement among fans of both the musical and her music. Grande’s comedic timing and vocal abilities make her a natural fit for the role of Glinda, whose journey from shallow popularity to meaningful leadership is central to the story.
In addition to Erivo and Grande, Wicked (2024) boasts an impressive supporting cast. Jonathan Bailey, known for his breakout role in Bridgerton, will play Fiyero, the handsome and rebellious love interest of both witches. Michelle Yeoh, fresh off her Oscar-winning performance in Everything Everywhere All At Once, is cast as Madame Morrible, the manipulative headmistress of Shiz University. And the legendary Jeff Goldblum takes on the role of the Wizard, the charming but ultimately deceptive ruler of Oz.
Jon M. Chu’s Vision for Wicked on Screen
Adapting a beloved stage musical into a film comes with its own set of challenges and expectations, but director Jon M. Chu has proven that he’s up to the task. Known for his visually stunning and emotionally resonant work in musicals, Chu brings a fresh and modern approach to Wicked without losing the heart of what made the stage show so beloved.
One of the major differences between the stage version and the movie is the ability to expand the world of Oz beyond the confines of the theater. With the magic of cinema, Chu is able to bring a fully realized Oz to life, complete with sweeping landscapes, intricate cityscapes, and magical creatures that were only hinted at in the stage production. The visual effects and production design are expected to be some of the film's most exciting aspects, providing an immersive experience that fans of the musical have never seen before.
Chu has also emphasized the emotional core of the story, focusing on the nuanced relationship between Elphaba and Glinda. In interviews, he has discussed how important it is to capture the complexity of their friendship, and how their differing paths reflect larger themes of power, identity, and societal expectations. By balancing the fantastical elements of Oz with these human emotions, Chu hopes to create a film that is both visually spectacular and emotionally resonant.
The Music: Iconic Songs Brought to Life
Of course, no discussion of Wicked would be complete without mentioning its iconic music. Composed by Stephen Schwartz, the original Broadway score features some of the most beloved songs in musical theater, including “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” “The Wizard and I,” and “For Good.” These songs have become anthems for fans around the world, and their inclusion in the film is one of the most highly anticipated elements.
Cynthia Erivo’s rendition of “Defying Gravity,” arguably the most famous song from the musical, is expected to be a highlight of the movie. Her powerful voice, combined with the cinematic spectacle of Elphaba’s flight, promises to create a breathtaking moment that will resonate with audiences. Similarly, Ariana Grande’s performance of “Popular” is sure to showcase her comedic talents and vocal agility, capturing the lighthearted side of Glinda’s character.
While the film will stay true to the original score, there is also speculation that new music or additional scenes may be included to enhance the story for the cinematic format. Jon M. Chu has hinted that the film may explore aspects of the characters’ lives that weren’t fully developed in the stage show, and music could play a key role in this expanded storytelling.
Anticipation and Cultural Impact
Since its debut on Broadway in 2003, Wicked has become a cultural phenomenon. It has played to millions of theatergoers worldwide, spawned countless fan communities, and earned a place in the pantheon of modern musical theater classics. The film adaptation is expected to introduce the story to an even wider audience, many of whom may be experiencing Wicked for the first time.
The themes of Wicked — questioning authority, resisting conformity, and the complexities of friendship — are as relevant today as they were when the musical first debuted. In a world increasingly focused on individualism and social justice, the story of Elphaba, a character who is ostracized for her differences yet remains true to herself, is likely to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Moreover, the casting of two women of color in the lead roles — Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda — reflects the industry’s growing commitment to diversity and inclusion. Their portrayals of these iconic characters are poised to bring new dimensions to the story, offering fresh perspectives on themes of identity and belonging.
Conclusion: A Cinematic Event Not to Be Missed
Wicked (2024) is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and anticipated films of the year. With a visionary director, an all-star cast, and the enduring appeal of its story and music, the film has the potential to captivate audiences around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the musical or discovering it for the first time, Wicked promises to be a magical cinematic experience that will leave a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and the hearts of its viewers.
