The long-awaited film adaptation of Wicked is set to cast its spell over audiences on November 22, 2024. With a powerful cast led by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, Wicked promises to bring the magic of Oz to the big screen like never before.
Why Wicked Matters to Fans
Since its Broadway debut in 2003, Wicked has enchanted theatre-goers with its unique twist on the classic Wizard of Oz story. Instead of Dorothy, Wicked focuses on the friendship (and rivalry) between Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, the misunderstood figure who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, the musical delves deep into their origins and adds layers to these well-known characters, highlighting the tension between power, prejudice, and friendship.
For fans, this film adaptation isn’t just another musical hitting theatres; it’s a beloved story that’s finally reaching a wider audience. With its memorable songs, like Defying Gravity and Popular, Wicked has earned an almost cult-like following over the years, inspiring fans worldwide to hope for a movie adaptation.
Bringing Wicked to Life on the Big Screen
The cinematic transformation of Wicked has been a long journey, marked by high expectations and endless speculation. Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his vibrant work on In the Heights, the film promises a visually stunning take on Oz with lush sets, immersive costumes, and dynamic choreography. Chu has a knack for infusing musical adaptations with authentic emotion and energy, and his involvement has fuelled excitement among Wicked’s fans.
The choice of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande for the iconic roles has added further intrigue. Both stars have the vocal range and on-stage presence needed to tackle these demanding roles. Erivo, an Oscar-nominated powerhouse, brings a gravitas and emotional depth to Elphaba that fans hope will capture the witch’s journey from outcast to activist. Meanwhile, Grande’s performance as Glinda will likely lean into the character’s bubbly yet complex nature, potentially adding new layers to the “good witch” persona.
What the Film Will Offer Beyond the Broadway Stage
One of the biggest questions surrounding Wicked’s adaptation is how it will expand the story visually and narratively. Broadway’s Oz has been limited to a stage setting, but the film promises sweeping landscapes, magical effects, and new interpretations of pivotal scenes. From flying sequences that can truly soar on the big screen to the colourful Emerald City brought to life, the movie aims to be a feast for the eyes. Early previews have teased scenes that will amplify the show’s most iconic moments, including Elphaba’s breathtaking defiance in Defying Gravity.
Another exciting shift is the decision to release Wicked in two parts, with the second scheduled for 2025. This two-part structure allows the filmmakers to retain more of the source material and gives space to delve deeper into character development, which is key for audiences attached to Elphaba and Glinda’s complex bond.
Why Wicked Could Be 2024’s Awards Contender
With a powerhouse cast, a seasoned director, and a story already beloved by millions, Wicked is positioned as a potential awards contender. The film’s lush visuals, combined with strong performances and a compelling narrative, could draw in accolades beyond the musical category, especially for Erivo’s expectedly intense portrayal of Elphaba. Moreover, the film’s timing aligns with the holiday season, traditionally a prime slot for Academy Award hopefuls.
What Fans Are Saying
Anticipation for Wicked has been palpable across social media, with fans dissecting every new image, trailer, and rumour. Early reactions to sneak peeks and set photos suggest that the film is hitting the right notes with long-time fans, many of whom are eager to see Grande and Erivo bring their favourite characters to life. Broadway enthusiasts have also praised the film’s commitment to honouring the musical, especially with original songwriter Stephen Schwartz involved in adapting the music for film.
For a generation that grew up singing Wicked’s songs and following Elphaba’s journey, this film adaptation is not just another movie release — it’s a cultural milestone. As the film premieres, audiences will finally get to see if the movie lives up to the magic that Wicked has conjured on Broadway stages for over two decades.
A Two-Part Journey: What We Know About Wicked: Part 2
One of the boldest decisions in adapting Wicked was to split it into two films, with Part 1 set to release on 22 November 2024 and Part 2 expected to hit cinemas in late 2025. By stretching the story across two films, director Jon M. Chu and his team aim to stay truer to the original stage production, capturing the depth and development of Elphaba and Glinda’s friendship and the evolving power dynamics in Oz.
This two-part format allows the narrative to dive deep, ensuring that key character moments aren’t rushed and that pivotal songs have their full emotional impact. The first film will likely cover Elphaba and Glinda’s early days at Shiz University and their initial clashes over identity, values, and morality. This instalment is expected to climax with the iconic Defying Gravity scene, as Elphaba embraces her identity and fate as the “wicked” witch.
Wicked: Part 2 will then dive into the heart of the story’s political intrigue, betrayal, and the escalating battle for control of Oz. Fans can expect to see the intensity between Elphaba and Glinda deepen, exploring the consequences of their choices and the toll of the dark forces threatening their world. The second film will also likely resolve the fates of beloved characters from the Wizard of Oz, bridging the Wicked story with L. Frank Baum’s classic tale.
By releasing Wicked in two parts, the filmmakers hope to offer audiences a more complete and impactful adaptation, one that captures every twist and turn that has made the stage musical unforgettable. As fans eagerly await Part 1 this November, the anticipation is already building for Part 2—set to give viewers the climactic finish to one of the most beloved tales of friendship, ambition, and destiny in modern storytelling.