Wicked

Wicked (2024) Movie Synopsis

Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), Wicked (2024) reimagines the beloved Broadway phenomenon as a cinematic spectacle, delving into the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda long before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz. This two-part epic—split into Wicked: Part One and Part Two—explores the transformative friendship between the misunderstood “Wicked Witch of the West” (Cynthia Erivo) and the ambitious Glinda the Good (Ariana Grande), blending dazzling visuals, emotional depth, and iconic musical numbers like Defying Gravity and Popular. Set against Oz’s politically charged landscape, the film balances spectacle with intimate character arcs, offering a fresh perspective on acceptance, power, and identity.

Critics praise the film’s casting triumphs, particularly Erivo’s powerhouse vocals and Grande’s comedic charm, which anchor the emotional core. The Hollywood Reporter highlights Chu’s “visionary direction,” merging practical sets with CGI to create a vibrant Oz that feels both fantastical and grounded. Supporting performances from Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero add layers of intrigue, while Stephen Schwartz’s adapted score bridges Broadway nostalgia with modern cinematic flair. Early reviews note the film’s pacing, with Variety calling it “a masterclass in balancing spectacle and storytelling,” though some mention the split structure leaves audiences eager for resolution.

Production-wise, Wicked shines through its meticulous craftsmanship. Costume designer Paul Tazewell (Hamilton) reinterprets the stage’s whimsical aesthetics with intricate, story-driven designs, while Nathan Crowley’s (Dunkirk) production design juxtaposes Oz’s opulence with its underlying tensions. The film’s themes of societal division and self-discovery resonate sharply, amplified by Chu’s decision to expand character backstories and political subplots. Cinematographer Alice Brooks captures the saga’s emotional scale through sweeping wide shots and intimate close-ups, ensuring each musical number feels both grand and personal.

As a cultural moment, Wicked (2024) transcends its musical roots, offering a timely allegory about otherness and empathy. Universal’s bold two-part release strategy—Part One focusing on Elphaba’s rise and Part Two her fallout with Glinda—ensures depth rarely seen in adaptations. With a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score and audience acclaim for its “heartfelt performances” (Entertainment Weekly), the film cements itself as a milestone in musical cinema. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Oz, Wicked delivers a visually stunning, emotionally charged experience that redefines what a modern musical can achieve.

Wicked Trigger Breakdown