Green with Wonder: 'Wicked Part One' Casts a Spell on Oz

It's funny, isn't it, how some stories just burrow into your soul and stay there? For countless fans, 'Wicked' has been that story—a dazzling, thought-provoking prequel to the classic 'Wizard of Oz' tale that has held Broadway audiences captive for years. The anticipation for its big-screen adaptation has been nothing short of immense, a fervent buzz that’s been building for what feels like an eternity. And now, the first part is finally here, and I'm happy to report that it largely lives up to the hype, serving up a delightful, visually rich, and deeply emotional start to Elphaba’s extraordinary journey.

From the moment we step back into the vibrant, slightly off-kilter world of Oz, director Jon M. Chu makes it clear that this isn't just a filmed stage play. No, this is a genuine cinematic spectacle, embracing the grandeur and magic that only the big screen can offer. We're introduced to Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a brilliant, often misunderstood young woman with emerald green skin, as she arrives at the illustrious Shiz University. It's here, amidst the flying monkeys and the budding political unrest of Oz, that she crosses paths with Galinda (Ariana Grande), the initially superficial, endlessly popular, and utterly charming blonde. Their immediate rivalry, much like the musical, blossoms into one of the most compelling and nuanced friendships ever put to screen.

Cynthia Erivo, let's just get this out of the way, is Elphaba. Her performance is nothing short of breathtaking. You feel every ounce of Elphaba's vulnerability, her sharp intellect, and the profound loneliness of being an outcast. Then, as the story progresses, you witness her burgeoning defiance and raw power. Her voice, of course, is a force of nature, carrying the weight and emotion of every single note, making those iconic songs soar in a way that truly resonates deep within your chest. Honestly, it's a masterclass in emotional storytelling through song and expression.

And then there’s Ariana Grande as Glinda. I think many, myself included, were curious to see how she'd handle the role, and she absolutely nails it. She perfectly captures Glinda's early self-absorption and bubbly naiveté, providing some much-needed comedic relief without ever becoming a caricature. What’s truly remarkable is watching the subtle shifts, the tiny cracks in her polished facade, that hint at the complex, empathetic woman Glinda will become. The chemistry between Erivo and Grande is simply undeniable; their contrasting energies create a dynamic that is the very heart and soul of the film.

Visually, 'Wicked' is a feast for the eyes. Chu has meticulously crafted an Oz that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. The sets are elaborate, the costumes are wonderfully imaginative and fantastical, and the special effects are seamless, adding to the magic rather than detracting from it. Every frame just pops with color and detail, pulling you deeper into this fantastical realm. You can tell a tremendous amount of care and love went into bringing this world to life, and it absolutely pays off.

Of course, it wouldn't be 'Wicked' without the music, and the songs here are, as expected, glorious. They're woven seamlessly into the narrative, pushing the story forward and deepening the emotional stakes. When Erivo launches into that song, you know the one I'm talking about—the moment of true defiance—it’s not just a showstopper; it’s an electrifying, goosebump-inducing experience that perfectly caps off the first act, leaving you utterly speechless and buzzing with energy. It's a genuine triumph.

Beyond the spectacle and the incredible performances, 'Wicked Part One' manages to retain the musical's profound themes of prejudice, the nature of good versus evil, and the power of friendship. It’s a story about looking beyond the surface, questioning narratives, and finding your voice even when the world tries to silence you. In many ways, it feels incredibly relevant to our times, adding an unexpected layer of depth to its whimsical exterior.

This first installment is a fantastic setup, wonderfully witchy, and brimming with whimsical charm. It does an excellent job of honoring the beloved source material while also charting its own course as a cinematic experience. It leaves you, quite honestly, desperate for the second part, eager to see how these characters and their intertwined destinies will unfold. If you're a long-time fan or completely new to the world of Oz, this film is an absolute treat—a true cinematic spectacle that promises even more magic to come.