7 Reasons To Go See “Wicked” This Weekend

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver “Wicked’s” most captivating performances, each bringing a unique and powerful energy to their roles as Elphaba and Glinda. Erivo, with her commanding presence and powerhouse vocals, imbues Elphaba with both raw emotion and deep humanity, capturing the character’s struggle with identity, acceptance, and the weight of her power. Her performance is filled with heart, vulnerability, and strength, making Elphaba’s journey all the more poignant and moving.

On the other hand, Ariana Grande shines as Glinda, effortlessly balancing her character’s comedic wit with moments of real emotional depth. Her impeccable comedic timing brings a lightness and charm to Glinda’s more whimsical moments, while her later scenes show a tenderness and sincerity that reveal the layers beneath her bubbly exterior.

Together, the chemistry between Erivo and Grande is electric; their bond as best friends, filled with moments of laughter, tension, and deep affection, forms the emotional heart of the film. Their dynamic is a beautiful balance of humor and heart, with both actresses playing off each other in ways that feel both authentic and deeply moving, making their friendship the beating core of this cinematic journey.

In addition to Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, “Wicked” features standout performances from Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum, each bringing their unique talents to the screen. Yeoh, as the mysterious and formidable Madame Morrible, exudes elegance and authority, effortlessly commanding attention in every scene. Jonathan Bailey brings a charming, yet deeply conflicted energy to the role of Fiyero, adding emotional complexity to his character’s journey. Meanwhile, Jeff Goldblum’s portrayal of the Wizard is delightfully eccentric, with his signature quirky energy lending both humor and gravitas to the role. Together, these performances round out the ensemble, enhancing the rich storytelling and providing additional layers of depth to the film’s world.

Jon M. Chu has proven himself the perfect director for “Wicked”, and honestly, he might just need to direct every movie musical from now on. Chu has a rare gift for translating the magic of a beloved stage show to the big screen, understanding that it’s not just about capturing the music and lyrics, but about preserving the heart and soul of the original while breathing new life into it. His inventive creative choices, from sweeping, breathtaking visuals to moments of intimate emotional depth, make every scene memorable.

With his previous work on “In the Heights” and “Crazy Rich Asians”, Chu has demonstrated an exceptional ability to inject energy, love, and depth into his adaptations, making them feel fresh and cinematic without losing the essence of what made the stage productions special. In Wicked, his direction makes the fantastical world of Oz feel both grand and grounded, and his approach to the musical numbers elevates them to new heights. Chu’s intuitive understanding of how to honor the stage show while crafting a visually stunning, emotionally resonant film makes him the ideal director for any future movie musical adaptations.

The musical performances in Wicked are nothing short of spectacular, with each actor bringing their A-game to some of the most iconic songs in musical theater. Cynthia Erivo’s rendition of “Defying Gravity” is an electrifying, spine-tingling moment that perfectly captures Elphaba’s fierce independence and struggle for acceptance. Ariana Grande’s take on “Popular” is full of charm and comedic timing, bringing a fresh playfulness. These performances, combined with lush orchestrations and stunning visuals, make “Wicked” a musical experience that will leave audiences humming long after the credits roll.

Seeing “Wicked” in theaters is a truly unifying experience, where the magic of the stage production comes alive on the big screen. From the first notes of the iconic score to the breathtaking visuals, the film pulls audiences into the fantastical world of Oz, creating an atmosphere of shared excitement and emotion. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, the film’s spectacle and powerful performances make it a cinematic event that brings people together, evoking laughter, tears, and a sense of collective wonder. It’s a communal experience that feels both grand and intimate, reminding us of the power of storytelling to connect us all.

“Wicked” was made for the big screen, with its stunning visuals, sweeping cinematography, and grand musical numbers all designed to fill the theater with energy and awe. The film’s expansive set pieces and vibrant, larger-than-life world of Oz demand to be seen on the big screen, where every detail can be appreciated in full. From the dazzling special effects to the soaring musical performances, “Wicked” is a cinematic spectacle meant to be shared in a packed theater, where the collective gasps, laughter, and applause create an electric atmosphere that simply can’t be replicated at home. This is a movie designed to be experienced with an audience, amplifying the magic and emotion of the story in a way only the theater can provide.

A delightful surprise for fans of the original “Wicked” musical comes in the form of cameos by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth during the One Short Day number. The iconic duo, who originated the roles of Elphaba and Glinda on Broadway, make a brief but joyous appearance, sending longtime fans into a frenzy of excitement. Their inclusion in this beloved song not only honors the legacy of their performances but also adds a layer of nostalgia and heart to the film, making the moment extra special for anyone who has followed Wicked from the stage to the screen. It’s a perfect nod to the original show that brings an extra dose of magic to an already unforgettable cinematic experience.

So, go grab those tickets, (maybe tissues), sit back and experience the greatness of “Wicked” in theaters NOW!