Movie Review: Wicked Part One
The cinematic adaptation of Wicked brings L. Frank Baum’s Oz universe to the big screen with vibrant visuals and compelling performances from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. However, while the film delivers some magical moments, it doesn’t entirely defy the gravity of its own ambition.
One of the most striking aspects of Wicked is the undeniable chemistry between its two leads. Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is tender and complex, capturing the witch’s vulnerability and latent power with a performance that keeps viewers emotionally invested. Meanwhile, Grande brings humor and charm to Galinda, nailing the queen-bee archetype with sparkling wit and her trademark vocal prowess. Together, their dynamic feels electric, breathing life into the core relationship of the story.
That said, the film stumbles in maintaining momentum, with scene transitions often feeling jarring or overlong. Certain subplots, particularly those involving magical talking animals and Elphaba’s sister, seem underdeveloped and detract from the pacing. These narrative choices could have benefited from tighter editing to streamline the story and maintain the audience’s engagement.While Wicked features some captivating moments, the final 20 minutes truly steal the show. The climactic number, Defying Gravity, is a triumph—a mesmerizing blend of emotion, music, and visual spectacle that resonates deeply. It’s the kind of cinematic magic that fans of the musical have been waiting for, elevating the film to its most memorable and impactful heights.
Despite its shortcomings, Wicked offers enough to satisfy existing fans, from Stephen Schwartz’s rousing songs to the meticulous attention to costumes and set design. Yet, for those less enamored with the stage production, it may feel like an elaborate setup for the second installment, which promises to conclude the story.
Wicked Part One may not soar as high as its potential, but with Erivo and Grande’s standout performances and a breathtaking closing act, it’s a solid introduction to this two-part tale. Here’s hoping Part Two delivers the fully realized spellbinding experience we’re longing for.
