Wicked Review - An Instant Classic?

Let me start this way… I’m a theater kid who has never watched Wicked. Yes, as strange as it sounds, there has never been a production of this beloved musical in my little home country. I did have a low-quality recording of one of the original productions with Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda and Idina Menzel as Elphaba, but I never watched it. Why? I wanted to save the experience for the day I could see it live. Well, life had other plans, and my introduction to Wicked ended up being through the much-anticipated 2024 film adaptation.

Ariana Grande as Glinda

When the casting was first announced, the world collectively raised an eyebrow. Could "the ponytail girl" truly become Glinda the Good? Let me assure you—Ariana Grande is Glinda. She brings a fresh perspective to the character, balancing comedic timing with heartfelt sincerity. Ariana’s performance is musically flawless (no surprises there) but also theatrically rich, proving she’s more than capable of tackling the iconic role. This isn’t just pop star Ariana Grande; this is a new artist.

Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba

Most people likely went to see this movie for Ariana, but let me tell you—we came for Ariana, but we stayed for Cynthia. As Elphaba, Cynthia Erivo delivers a masterclass in character depth and emotional resonance. She embodies the misunderstood "Wicked Witch" in a way that feels painfully human and endlessly relatable. Her vocals? Unsurprisingly phenomenal. Her acting? Even better. Cynthia captivates every moment she’s on-screen, making it impossible to look away.

Supporting Cast Highlights

Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero is everything you’d hope for: charming, complex, and effortlessly magnetic. His chemistry with Cynthia Erivo is electric, creating some of the film’s most memorable moments. Meanwhile, Ethan Slater’s Boq is a delightful surprise. He brings a playful, almost childlike energy to the role, balancing humor and earnestness perfectly. His off-screen chemistry with Ariana Grande even sneaks its way onto the big screen, adding an extra layer of charm.

Visuals and Cinematic World-Building

While the world of Oz is as magically enchanting as fans hoped, the movie falters slightly in its visual execution. The colors, which are so integral to the vibrancy of Oz, feel muted. It’s a curious choice that might leave some viewers craving the saturation and whimsy of the stage production. However, the cinematography and visual effects remain top-tier, creating an immersive and visually rich experience overall.

Oscars Potential

The Oscar buzz surrounding Wicked is undeniable, but how realistic is it? The film is undoubtedly one of the standout releases of 2024, yet it might face challenges at the Academy Awards. Its "Disney-like" tone and family-friendly nature could limit its appeal for certain categories. That being said, nominations for Best Original Score and Best Costumes feel like a lock. Ariana Grande has an outside shot at a Best Supporting Actress nod, but Cynthia Erivo—despite her incredible performance—might find herself overlooked in the competitive Best Actress race. Does she deserve the Oscar though? ABSOLUTELY!

Is Wicked Woke?

Is Wicked woke? That depends on your definition. Casting Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a green-skinned woman mistreated for her appearance, is a powerful and resonant choice, especially in today’s cultural context. However, the film doesn’t beat viewers over the head with overt messages. It walks a fine line, offering a story that feels inclusive and progressive while remaining accessible to broader audiences. The subtle queer coding is present but never explicit—something that queer audiences will appreciate but others might miss entirely.

Final Thoughts

Wicked (2024) is a magical, emotional, and thoroughly entertaining adaptation that does justice to the legacy of the musical. Ariana Grande surprises and delights as Glinda, Cynthia Erivo stuns as Elphaba, and the supporting cast elevates the film to new heights. While the muted visuals might leave some fans wanting more vibrancy, the story’s heart and the cast’s performances more than makeup for it.

Will Wicked sweep the Oscars? Probably not, although we really do hope it happens. But will it enchant audiences around the world? Absolutely. For theater kids, musical lovers, and fans of the cast, this is a must-watch.