Maria Arozamena
The “Wicked” movie had many people eagerly waiting to see if it would live up to the Broadway musical. A lover of the musical myself, I found the film surpassed my expectations. With a mashup of big Hollywood actors and singers like Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo and Jeff Goldblum, I was weary if this casting was going to dilute the original storyline, but the casting only added to the success even more.
The movie begins with a pan of the Land of Oz: the camera flies through a rainbow and over some familiar characters as an homage to the previous movie “The Wizard of Oz”. We are then taken to Munchkin Land, where the citizens are rejoicing amidst the news of the Wicked Witch of the West’s death while singing “No One Mourns the Wicked.” I love this introduction to the story because, in the trailers and promotional material for the movie, Elphaba and Glinda are posed as opposites, who then become best friends. But watching Glinda celebrate and burn down a statue of her supposed best friend, makes us wonder, what could’ve possibly happened to make her celebrate her death? I was immediately hooked into the story so I could find insight as to why Elphaba was turned into a martyr.
Because “Wicked” is a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz”, there are several moments, lyrics and even choreography that foreshadow events and characters in the original film. The director Jon M. Chu had an excellent vision, making this adaptation feel lively and new again. Shiz University is full of energy and the Emerald City glitters in the sunlight of Oz. With ulterior motives, opposites attracting and an enemies to friends relationship, this movie unpacked so many topics and provided heart wrenching backstories for characters I love.
Through the musical’s swelling songs and powerful riffs, I was emotionally moved. Themes of friendship, identity and trust were explored in the lyrics and character dynamics. I realized how sad “Wicked” is at its core in “The Wizard and I” as Elphaba cheered at the thought of her life changing — a life where she would no longer be viewed as a villain. But already knowing the ending of her story, made me even more mournful at her optimism. Cynthia Erivo’s voice differs from Idina Menzel, but each has their own beauty and power and contribute to their versions of Elphaba.
The film is almost three hours long, but if you like musicals, exploring fantasy worlds and tear jerking heart to heart moments, then Wicked is definitely a must watch. There was so much detail, love and passion put into this film, and I won’t be surprised if someone from the cast wins an Oscar for this movie.
As I eagerly wait for part two of the movie to be released, “The Wizard and I” is still played on repeat for me. As I closely dissect the lyrics to each song, I continue to question: who really is the “wicked” one?