The long-awaited film adaptation of Wicked has finally descended upon Australian cinemas, bringing with it both dazzling spectacle and lingering questions about whether magic can survive multiple viewings. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this cinematic interpretation of the beloved Broadway musical delivers visual splendor but reveals narrative limitations upon closer inspection.
A Spectacle of Colour and Music
From the moment the screen fills with the vibrant hues of Oz, it's clear that this Wicked movie adaptation spares no expense in creating a visually stunning world. The production design transforms the Emerald City into a breathtaking metropolis that feels both fantastical and tangible. Director Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, brings his signature flair for vibrant, crowd-pleasing entertainment to this beloved story.
The film features Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, two casting choices that generate both excitement and scrutiny. Erivo brings powerful vocals and emotional depth to the misunderstood green-skinned witch, while Grande captures Glinda's bubbly exterior with surprising comedic timing. Their chemistry forms the emotional core of the film, with their evolving friendship providing the most compelling moments.
When the Magic Weakens
Despite the initial wonder, the spell isn't as strong the second time around. The film's runtime, split into two parts as Wicked: Part One, creates pacing issues that become more apparent upon repeat viewing. Some musical numbers that initially dazzle begin to feel elongated, while character development sometimes takes a backseat to visual spectacle.
The supporting cast, including Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, deliver solid performances but struggle with limited screen time in this first installment. The decision to split the story means some relationships and plot points feel underdeveloped, leaving audiences waiting for the promised payoff in Part Two.
Technical Brilliance and Emotional Resonance
Where the film consistently excels is in its technical achievements. The costume design, particularly Elphaba's transformation and Glinda's increasingly elaborate gowns, serves as a character in itself. The musical arrangements maintain the beloved Stephen Schwartz score while adding cinematic depth that enhances rather than overwhelms the original compositions.
The themes of friendship, prejudice, and challenging corrupt systems remain as relevant as when the musical first premiered. The film successfully captures the heart of Elphaba's journey from misunderstood outcast to defiant activist, even if the narrative structure sometimes hinders the emotional impact.
For Australian audiences experiencing Wicked on the big screen, the film delivers enough spectacle and strong performances to warrant a cinema visit. However, the magic that makes repeat viewings of the stage production so rewarding doesn't fully translate to this cinematic interpretation. The visual wonder may diminish upon subsequent watches, revealing a story that struggles to maintain its emotional power across its expanded runtime.
