Wicked Movie Story: “Wicked” (2024) brings to the big screen the beloved Broadway musical that redefined the tale of The Wizard of Oz. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this adaptation delves into the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch, exploring their unlikely friendship and the events that set them on opposing paths. With Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the film promises a spectacular journey filled with dazzling visuals, heartfelt performances, and iconic music.
Wicked Movie Story
The story begins with a grand spectacle as Glinda descends majestically into Munchkinland, addressing an enthusiastic crowd. She confirms the rumors that the Wicked Witch of the West is dead. The vibrant opening scene sets the tone for the film’s blend of visual grandeur and emotional depth. However, this is just the starting point, as the narrative swiftly takes us back in time to explore how Elphaba and Glinda’s lives intertwined.
Elphaba’s Troubled Beginnings
The flashback reveals Elphaba’s challenging childhood, marked by her green skin, which led to ostracization and bullying. Her relationship with her family is strained, particularly with her father, who struggles to accept her uniqueness. Despite these hardships, Elphaba exhibits remarkable intelligence and magical abilities, which eventually earn her a place at Shiz University.
At Shiz, Elphaba’s arrival is met with skepticism and mockery, yet her resilience shines through. This sets the stage for her transformative journey from an outcast to a figure of power and rebellion.
Glinda’s Introduction
Contrasting with Elphaba, Glinda (initially known as Galinda) is introduced as the epitome of privilege and popularity. With her blonde tresses, pink dresses, and a loyal entourage led by a comically sycophantic character (played by Bowen Yang), she rules Shiz’s social scene. Glinda’s superficial charm and mean-girl attitude mask a deep-seated desire for approval and acceptance.
Roommates by Fate
When Elphaba and Glinda are forced to share a room at Shiz, sparks fly as their clashing personalities lead to comedic and dramatic encounters. These early interactions are highlighted by moments of humor and conflict, from makeover sessions to hair flip tutorials. The film masterfully balances the tension between them with lighthearted musical numbers, particularly Glinda’s show-stopping “Popular.”
This first act establishes the foundation of their friendship, as the two women begin to see past each other’s exteriors and recognize shared vulnerabilities. Their dynamic is further explored in a beautifully choreographed, wordless dance sequence, where their connection blossoms into genuine camaraderie.
Magical Training and the Struggles
Under the tutelage of Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), Shiz’s sorcery professor, Elphaba starts honing her magical abilities. However, her talent attracts both admiration and suspicion. Meanwhile, Glinda’s ambitions and insecurities lead her to compete with Elphaba, adding layers to their evolving relationship.
The theme of societal prejudice becomes evident as the treatment of talking animals in Oz grows harsher. Dr. Dillamond, a goat professor voiced by Peter Dinklage, faces increasing persecution, serving as a poignant symbol of discrimination. Elphaba’s compassion for Dr. Dillamond highlights her growing sense of justice and foreshadows her eventual rebellion.
Fiyero’s Arrival
The arrival of Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) brings new dynamics to the story. Fiyero’s charm and carefree demeanor make him a desirable figure at Shiz, catching the attention of both Glinda and Elphaba. The love triangle that emerges adds emotional complexity, as Elphaba’s feelings for Fiyero conflict with her loyalty to Glinda.
The musical number “Dancing Through Life,” set in Shiz’s rotating, multilevel library, showcases the film’s choreography and production design. Fiyero’s flirtation with both women creates moments of tension and humor, further enriching the narrative.
The Wizard’s Deception and Elphaba’s Transformation
Elphaba’s journey takes a darker turn when she meets the Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum). Initially hopeful that he can help her achieve her goals, she discovers his true nature as a manipulative and oppressive ruler. The Wizard’s policies, including the silencing of talking animals, reveal a regime built on fear and deception.
Betrayed and disillusioned, Elphaba rejects the Wizard’s offer to join his ranks. This pivotal moment marks her transformation into the so-called “Wicked Witch of the West.” The powerful anthem “Defying Gravity” underscores her defiance, with Cynthia Erivo delivering a show-stopping performance that captures Elphaba’s newfound strength and determination.
Glinda’s Rise and Elphaba’s Isolation
As Elphaba embraces her role as an outcast, Glinda ascends to prominence as the Wizard’s ally. This shift in their relationship is both heartbreaking and inevitable. Glinda’s desire for acceptance leads her to make choices that align her with the Wizard, despite her lingering affection for Elphaba.
The contrasting journeys of the two women are brought into sharp focus, with their diverging paths reflecting themes of power, loyalty, and self-discovery. Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda captures the character’s inner conflict, balancing her bubbly exterior with moments of genuine vulnerability.
Climax : Wicked Movie Story
The film builds to a climactic final act, where the stakes are raised, and the characters’ fates intertwine. Elaborate musical sequences, including “No Good Deed” and “For Good,” highlight the emotional and thematic depth of the story. The practical sets and intricate choreography shine in these moments, even as CGI elements occasionally detract from the visual impact.
Director Jon M. Chu demonstrates his skill in orchestrating grand set pieces, creating a sense of scale and spectacle that pays homage to the stage production while embracing the possibilities of cinema.
A Tale of Friendship, Betrayal, and Redemption
The emotional core of “Wicked” lies in the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda. Their bond, forged through shared struggles and shattered by conflicting choices, resonates throughout the film. The performances of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande bring authenticity and depth to these iconic characters, ensuring that their story remains compelling and relatable.
As the film concludes with a dramatic cliffhanger, audiences are left eagerly anticipating the second installment, set to release in November 2025. The journey of these characters is far from over, and the promise of further exploration adds to the film’s allure.
Conclusion : Wicked Movie Story
“Wicked” (2024) is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adaptation that captures the essence of the beloved stage musical. While its reliance on CGI and tonal inconsistencies may detract from the overall experience, the film’s strong performances, iconic music, and heartfelt storytelling ensure its place as a memorable cinematic event.
For fans of The Wizard of Oz and newcomers alike, “Wicked” offers a rich, immersive journey into the land of Oz, celebrating the power of friendship, individuality, and defiance. As the first chapter of a two-part saga, it lays a strong foundation for what promises to be an epic conclusion.
Top Movie Ratings
| Imdb | 7.6/10 |
| Rotten Tomatoes | 91% |
| Screen Rant | 9/10 |
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