With its larger-than-life characters and universal themes, “Wicked” has always been more than a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz”. Now, its 2024 film adaptation seeks to expand that legacy. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the film presents a dazzling spectacle while revisiting the classic themes of friendship, power and identity.
Since its Broadway debut in 2003, “Wicked” has become a cultural phenomenon, enchanting millions with its unforgettable characters and iconic songs such as “Defying Gravity” and “Popular”. The stage production won three Tony Awards and has remained an integral part of Broadway for over two decades.
Set before the events of “The Wizard of Oz”, “Wicked” delves into the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and her unique friendship with Glinda the Good. Elphaba, born with green skin, is shunned for her appearance, yet possesses extraordinary talents, while Glinda is charming and ambitious, seeking social status and admiration. Their bond is tested by love, politics and their own diverging paths, culminating in the story audiences know from the classic tale of Oz.
“I think power was a main theme throughout the story,” junior Miya Nithin stated. “Glinda was power-hungry, yet Elphaba refused the power given to her in order to do the right thing.”
The exploration of power in “Wicked” isn’t just about who wields it but also about the sacrifices made along the way. Glinda’s choices reflect the price of ambition, an internal struggle to justify questionable actions for external rewards. Elphaba’s decision to renounce power, on the other hand, portrays a quiet strength that challenges the traditional definition of heroism.
At its core, “Wicked” is a test of love and friendship at the height of social politics, conflicting identities, and societal acceptance all while paying the price of sacrifice and suffering from the cost of ambition. It, at the end of the day, is filled with tension between standing by someone and the fear of being judged for it. The film highlights Glinda’s inner struggle as she navigates her loyalty to Elphaba while grappling with the fear of how society will view her. These nuanced moments in the story illustrate the depth of their friendship and the risks they take for one another. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo bring these complexities to life through their portrayals, masterfully capturing the essence of Glinda’s charm and Elphaba’s strong will.
“I thought both actors played their characters really well, and I loved Glinda’s character,” Nithin shared. “The scene where Glinda refused to go with Elphaba, yet still supported her and wished the best for her, felt very powerful to me.”
The film’s rich aesthetic, from the detailed sets to the vibrant costumes, left a lasting impression on viewers, who felt that these elements truly brought the world of Oz to life. However, several viewers also believed that the plot itself lacked depth and originality, which was masked by the film’s flamboyance and musical numbers that deviated from the gist of the story.
“The sets and costumes were incredible, and the entire aesthetic of the movie was well developed,” Nithin said. “However, I thought some of the songs were unnecessary to the overall story and the plot was pretty predictable.”
Despite its imperfections, “Wicked” (2024) continues to captivate audiences with its exploration of complex relationships and moral dilemmas. The film offers longtime fans a nostalgic return to Oz while providing newcomers a refreshing glimpse into the witches’ backstory and the choices that defined their fates. In a world where allegiance to one’s friends and one’s own ambitions collide, “Wicked” reminds us that even the most unlikely friendships can leave a lasting impact, defying gravity in their own way.
