After several failed attempts to get it off the ground, the massively popular stage show finally gets the movie treatment.
Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a misunderstood young woman because of her green skin, befriends Galinda (Ariana Grande) at Shiz University in the Land of Oz .
Anything set in the same magical world as classic The Wizard of Oz has failed to fill its sizeable ruby slippers – but Wicked gives it the best shot.
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Shot in a brightly-coloured kaleidoscope, it’s an infectiously entertaining adventure reminiscent of Harry Potter with songs and older students.
Director Jon M. Chu proved his musical chops with 2021’s In the Heights and the choreography throughout every tune, whether it features only Elphaba and Galinda or dozens of extras, is exemplary.
The songs don’t lose any of their appeal in their transfer from stage to screen either as they add to the story and wow, amuse and touch in equal measures.
Erivo and Grande are excellent. The former encapsulates determination, uncertainty, care and a desire to help others and the latter is a delightful pampered, airy hair-swinging not-so-mean-girl.
Michelle Yeoh brings poise as Madame Morrible , Jonathan Bailey’s foppish, cocky Fiyero stays just on the right side of charming and Jeff Goldblum is a perfect choice as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz – hopefully we get to see more of him next time around.
Because, ah, yes, this is the first of a two-parter and while there is enough yet to come to justify another entry and avoid cash-in accusations, the two-hour and 40-minute runtime could’ve been slashed; one or two classroom or bullying scenes were ripe for the picking.
But powerful song show-stealer Gravity is the perfect way to finish this tale and lead into the next one as lots of intriguing plot strands are ready to go.
Ding Dong the witch is very much alive in the most wonderful journey back to Oz since Dorothy headed over the rainbow.
● Have you seen the Wicked stage show? If so, how does the first film compare?
Pop me an email at ian.bunting@reachplc.com and I will pass on your comments – and any movie or TV show recommendations you have – to your fellow readers.
● Wicked is available to buy or rent on Sky Store.
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