From Broadway to Screen, Wicked Reigns Supreme
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Spoiler Alert: This review is about to dive deep into the Wicked (2024) magic, so yes, it contains spoilers. If you haven’t seen the film yet and want to experience the twists, turns, and F-sharps for yourself—run, don’t walk, away from this review and to the theater!
After seeing the film for the third time, I’m doubling down on my original statement: this is the best Broadway-to-film adaptation we’ve ever gotten. And, okay, fine—I’ll admit it—I owe Jon M. Chu an apology. As a lifelong Broadway fan, I was, let's say, less than thrilled (to put it generously) with his adaptation of In the Heights for the big screen. So when I heard Chu was attached to the adaptation of the Broadway classic Wicked—well, my skepticism was sky high. But then the casting of Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande-Butera as Glinda happened, and let’s just say, my doubts started to melt a little faster than the Wicked Witch herself.
Walking into that early screening of Wicked: Part 1 with nerves tingling, I am so glad to admit I was totally wrong. Chu delivered. Not only did he create a film that will thrill audiences everywhere, but he gave us a movie that resonates deeply with anyone who has lived and breathed the Broadway show. It stays true to the heart of the original while deepening the story, bringing fresh life to the already iconic material. I’m eternally grateful to Chu for the cinematic upgrade, especially because I didn’t think I was going to get anything close to this good.
But enough about Chu—let’s talk about the rest of the magic.
Stephen Schwartz’s music is pure Broadway gold, and if you needed any confirmation of that, Wicked will give it to you in spades. Every song lands with beautiful precision, and the 80-piece orchestra? Are you INSANE?! This decision wasn’t just good, it was essential. Add to that the genius decision to sing live—and it’s clear why this film feels grounded in a way other movie musicals don’t. A typical critique of musicals is that it’s unbelievable when characters break into song, but here, with live vocals, every note feels like it belongs. And of course the main cast is extremely well suited to carry out the film’s vision and add to Schwartz’s triumph, there were two voices that graced this film: Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth (the original Elpahaba and Glinda). Can you say mother?
And while they couldn’t fit every song from Act I, the ones chosen were spot on—perfectly placed and subtly adjusted to fit the film’s unique pacing.
Now, while I have some tiny nitpicks about the lighting, this movie is a visual feast. The costumes by Paul Tazewell are nothing short of spectacular, and the set designs, led by Nathan Crowley, transport you into a world of color and wonder. The choreography by Christopher Scott and the camerawork by Alice Brooks only elevate the visual experience, making every scene feel like it’s alive. And let’s not forget the hair and makeup, helmed by Frances Hannon—utterly stunning. And all of this visual wonder is perfectly complemented by the extraordinary cast.
Let’s start with the two powerhouse leads: Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.
Erivo’s performance as Elphaba is a tour de force. I mean, wow. She gives us a fierce, powerful, and utterly explosive portrayal, yet there’s a restraint and vulnerability that gives the character layers. It’s clear that Erivo didn’t just sing Elphaba; she became her—fully, completely. The music was already going to be a big draw, but she takes it to another level. We’ve all heard her belt “Defying Gravity” in various snippets (including her belting it out in the middle of a Target), but nothing prepares you for the emotional, raw power she delivers in the film. When she hits that final F-sharp? Oh, my heart. The tension leading up to it is palpable, and when she finally lets loose? Satisfying doesn’t even begin to cover it. Honestly, it’s probably my favorite performance of the song to date—only tied with the original cast’s Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth.
Now, let’s talk about Ariana Grande-Butera as Glinda the “Good Witch.” Forget the pop diva you think you know. In this role, Ariana disappears into the character, embodying Glinda’s comedic timing, vulnerability, and heart with flawless precision. She delivers Glinda’s humor with sharp wit and, in the next breath, pulls at your heartstrings in the most unexpected ways. Her and Cynthia’s heartbreaking moment in “Dancing Through Life”—when Glinda stands up for Elphaba after humiliating her is as joyous as it is tragic—is Oscar-worthy. If there’s a world in which Ariana doesn’t walk away with a Supporting Actress award in 2026 (I know, I know, that’s a long way off, but a guy can dream), I’ll be shocked. Also, can we just take a moment to appreciate the fact that if you didn’t know Ariana was Glinda, you wouldn’t know. That’s acting, folks—she blends into the role so seamlessly that it’s a masterclass in talent.
As for the supporting cast—talk about a dream ensemble. Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, and Bronwyn James are just the tip of the iceberg. Every single casting choice feels like an absolutely perfect fit in an extremely elaborate puzzle. Big shoutout to Tiffany Little Canfield and Bernard Telsey for pulling this off like the casting geniuses they are.
And while we’re doling out thank-yous, let’s add Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox to the list. The screenplay adaptation here is just brilliant. Yes, they had incredible source material to work with (thanks, Gregory Maguire), but the subtle changes and expansions they made really give these characters room to breathe and grow. The emotional payoff is massive. From Elphaba’s heart-wrenching moment at the Ozdust Ballroom to the quiet yet powerful shift in Glinda’s character when she decides to support her friend, every scene has layers of emotion that cut deep. When Glinda and Elphaba share a tearful moment at the film’s climax, I defy you not to get misty-eyed. The highs feel higher, and the lows? Devastating. There’s no question: Wicked was a passion project for everyone involved, and you can feel it in every frame.
I honestly feel so fortunate to have seen this film—not once, not twice, but three times. My heart is full, my mind is blown, and I am so ready for Part 2. Huge congratulations to the entire cast and crew of Wicked which has earned over $165 million in its opening weekend and broke multiple box office records, both domestically and globally—including having the biggest domestic opening weekend for a film based on a Broadway musical. No one deserved this more. Wicked is, without a doubt, an absolute triumph.