Wicked, The Movie

Lauren Sellman, Arts & Entertainment Editor

Wicked, (2024) movie promotional banner. Photo//Deadline

Warning! Contains spoilers!

The Wicked movie was released on November 22, the prequel to The Wizard of Oz, has left theaters sold out and fans in tears. Starring Cynthia Erviro (as Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (as Glinda), this musical adaptation of the book and Broadway show by the same name tells the story of Elphaba as she grows up and earns her title of the Wicked Witch of the West. It's not just their ethereal voices that draw readers in, but the passionate performances from both stars embodying their dream roles on the screen for a new generation of Wicked fans. 

Wicked tells the story of Elphaba, a powerful witch who faces severe discrimination due to her green skin. She befriends Glinda the Good, an unlikely, popularity-obsessed companion. The two are forced to follow very different paths after reaching their dreams of meeting The Wizard of Oz. 

Although this story has been told through various different adaptations, this film expanded the world and made connections between ongoing points and characters in a creative way. Erviro takes on a more emotionally complex and fleshed out version of her character, Elphaba. For instance, rather than being introduced as a green monster baby with sharp teeth as referenced in the book, she is seen as misunderstood by audiences and is shown trying to protect her younger sister, Nessarose (played by Marissa Bode). 

Directed by Jon M. Chu, (the director of Crazy Rich Asians, 2018), this magical portrayal of Oz takes the audience into a colorful comedy-drama that is expected to win Best Picture Oscar this year and next. 

The film features a long list of iconic names who brought the world to life including, Jeff Goldblum (as The Wizard of Oz), Peter Dinklage (as Dr. Dillamond), Johnathan Bailey (as Prince Fiyero), and Ethan Slater (as Boq Woodsman). 

The stars of the 2003 Broadway musical, Idina Menzel (as Broadway Elphaba) and Kristin Chenoweth (as Broadway Glinda) had a special cameo moment when the two modern witches first arrived at the Emerald City. The Broadway stars sing a foreshadowing song while the two witches make their way to The Wizard of Oz. 

Both stars have discussed the emotional ties to their roles, dreaming of these characters since childhood. This passion comes through in their performances, and it is clear that both Erviro and Grande are deeply connected to their roles. 

The Wizard of Oz book was first introduced in 1900, with the live musical following closely behind in 1902. The story gained major audiences in 1939, with the first film adaptation featuring Judy Garland. 

In 1995, the prequel to Dorothy’s story was released, and the Wicked book became an immensely popular expansion, with the musical reaching Broadway in 2003. Since then, there have been various film versions putting their own twist on the story, however, none have been as successful as the 2024 movie. 

There has been massive media advertising and interviews regarding the film, showing the emotional toll this project has taken on the stars. 

Despite being nearly 3 hours long, the movie portrayed only the first half of the story with Wicked Part 2 set to be released on November 21, 2025. Despite having to wait a year-long intermission, fans are excitedly anticipating how the story will unfold. 

Similar to the Barbie movie phenomenon, this movie series is attracting long-term fans of all ages. All generations have grown up with The Wizard of Oz as it has become a major pillar of American film culture. The Wicked movie is a successful extension and adaptation of the wonderful world of Oz.