Created by the visionary Stephen Schwartz, this film presents the ultimate origin story of a super-villain, intricately depicting that moral complexities exist even amidst the chaos that surrounds you.
Cynthia Erivo takes center stage in her captivating portrayal of Elphaba, the green-skinned heroine whose journey begins at birth with inherent differences. As she navigates her feelings of alienation, Elphaba sets her sights on studying sorcery at the prestigious Shiz University in the enchanted realm of Oz, complete with its iconic yellow brick road and the illustrious Emerald City.
At Shiz University, Elphaba encounters Galinda (Ariana Grande-Butera), the glamorous and self-absorbed aspiring witch draped in pink, who is destined to transform into the Good Witch of the North in Oz lore.
Although Galinda appears to be the darling of the school, it is Elphaba who catches the attention of the principal, Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), who selects her for exclusive and intensive tutoring.
An intriguing love triangle unfolds with the captivating Fiyero (Bridgerton’s Jonathan Bailey), who becomes the object of affection for both Elphaba and Galinda, adding emotional depth to the enchanting narrative.
Bubbling beneath the vibrant spectacle of Oz lies the unsettling realization that not everything is as it seems; the magical land witnesses an unsettling trend where intelligent animals face persecution.
Among them is Dr. Dillamond, a goat professor at Shiz University, voiced by the talented Peter Dinklage from Game of Thrones. His character embodies a powerful resistance against the oppression faced by animal inhabitants as human characters seek dominance.
While the film’s narrative subtly weaves in political themes, it remains predominantly focused on exhilarating musical numbers such as the poignant “The Wizard and I” and the electrifying “Defying Gravity,” showcasing Schwartz’s ability to craft memorable tunes.
Throughout the film, Erivo masterfully builds anticipation for Elphaba’s evolution into the iconic black-hat-wearing witch, allowing Grande to dominate the comedic moments with her endearing portrayal of Galinda, whose humorous antics include playfully collapsing onto beds in mock despair. It’s a performance that’s undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year.
Under the direction of Jon M. Chu, known for his exceptional work on the critically acclaimed musical In the Heights (2021), Wicked is presented in two parts, with the first installment slated for release on November 22, 2024, and the second part following in November 2025. With the initial film’s impressive runtime of 160 minutes, some may view this ambitious layout as indulgent.
Nevertheless, the immersive experience draws viewers into an intricately crafted world inspired by L. Frank Baum’s beloved 1900 novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, blending nostalgia with modern cinematic flair.
Among the film’s standout features is the striking vision of renowned production designer Nathan Crowley, celebrated for his work on Christopher Nolan’s masterpieces, including the Dark Knight trilogy and Dunkirk. The remarkable sets—spanning from the hallowed halls of Shiz University to the resplendent Emerald City, dominated by a towering golden Wizard figure—are nothing short of breathtaking. Even the vibrant emerald train whisking through Oz is destined to become an instant design classic.
Wicked masterfully marries the charm of traditional filmmaking with modern cinematic innovation. Adding to the stellar cast, the legendary Jeff Goldblum makes a delightful late appearance as the Wizard of Oz, embodying the character with a flair that resonates with the illusionist’s deceptive charm.
Rounding out the experience is an exhilarating conclusion that evokes a sense of empowerment reminiscent of the original Christopher Reeve-starring Superman, leaving audiences eager and excited for the highly anticipated Part II.
Wicked: Part I comes to cinemas on Friday 22nd November 2024.
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What are the key themes explored in the film adaptation of “Wicked” as discussed by Jamie Collins?
**Interview with Broadway and Film Expert, Jamie Collins, on the Upcoming Film “Wicked”**
**Interviewer:** Jamie, thank you for joining us today to discuss the highly anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked.” It’s said to present an origin story of a super-villain, which is quite intriguing. Can you share your thoughts on how the film interprets the moral complexities of its characters?
**Jamie Collins:** Absolutely! “Wicked,” created by Stephen Schwartz, is not just a tale about good versus evil; it delves deep into the motivations and experiences that shape its characters. Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo, embodies the essence of someone who is judged by her differences. The film intricately explores her feelings of alienation and the circumstances that turn her into the infamous Wicked Witch. It challenges the audience’s perceptions, highlighting that even those labeled as villains have their stories and struggles that add layers to their character.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like the film really captures Elphaba’s journey. Can you elaborate on her relationship with Galinda, especially with Ariana Grande taking on that role?
**Jamie Collins:** Their relationship is one of the film’s focal points. Initially, Galinda, played by Ariana Grande, is depicted as the quintessential popular girl, but as the story unfolds, we see how their friendship evolves. It’s a complex bond filled with rivalry and camaraderie, set against the backdrop of their studies at Shiz University. Elphaba’s growing brilliance gets her noticed by Madame Morrible, while Galinda often serves as the comic relief, bringing lightness to the narrative. Grande’s performance promises to be both humorous and heartfelt, offering a contrast that enriches the story.
**Interviewer:** The film seems to have some darker themes as well, particularly around the treatment of intelligent animals. Can you discuss the significance of characters like Dr. Dillamond?
**Jamie Collins:** Yes, the inclusion of Dr. Dillamond, a goat professor voiced by Peter Dinklage, provides an essential commentary on societal injustices. His character embodies the struggles faced by oppressed intelligent animals in Oz, serving as a metaphor for real-world discrimination and prejudice. This subplot adds depth and urgency to the narrative, emphasizing that the world of Oz is not as idyllic as it seems. It encourages viewers to reflect on the moral responsibilities we have towards all beings, regardless of their forms.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, with the film’s release date approaching—November 22, 2024—what do you think sets “Wicked” apart from other musical adaptations?
**Jamie Collins:** The ambitious storytelling combined with Schwartz’s masterful musical compositions, such as “Defying Gravity,” truly sets “Wicked” apart. Under Jon M. Chu’s direction, known for his vision in “In the Heights,” this film promises to blend nostalgia with contemporary cinematic flair in a way that feels both refreshing and familiar. The dual-part release also allows for deeper character development, which is often a challenge in single-film adaptations. the film seems poised to immerse audiences in a richly crafted world and ensure that both fans of the musical and newcomers are captivated.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Jamie, for your insights on “Wicked.” It sounds like it’s shaping up to be an enchanting and thought-provoking experience for viewers.
**Jamie Collins:** Thank you for having me! I’m excited to see how audiences respond to this interpretation of such beloved characters. It’s definitely going to be a highlight of 2024!
