The highly anticipated movie adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked is coming to cinemas this month. Starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the film tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz, exploring their journey and the events leading up to The Wizard of Oz. Here’s everything you need to know about the movie.
Release Date and Format
The Wicked movie will be released in two parts:
- Part One hits UK cinemas on Friday, 22 November 2024.
- Part Two is scheduled for 26 November 2025.
Plot Overview
Wicked offers a fresh take on the classic Wizard of Oz tale, focusing on the backstory of two iconic characters.
- Elphaba – A misunderstood, green-skinned girl who eventually becomes the Wicked Witch of the West.
- Glinda – The popular and glamorous Good Witch.
The movie explores their unlikely friendship, their struggles, and how they are shaped by the magical world around them.
The Cast
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Glinda | Ariana Grande |
| Elphaba | Cynthia Erivo |
| Fiyero | Jonathan Bailey |
| Boq | Ethan Slater |
| Madame Morrible | Michelle Yeoh |
| The Wizard | Jeff Goldblum |
| Dr. Dillamond | Peter Dinklage |
| Pfannee | Bowen Yang |
| Miss Coddle | Keala Settle |
| Nessarose | Marissa Bode |
About the Production
Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for hits like Crazy Rich Asians and In The Heights, the movie aims to capture the magic of the original musical while offering a cinematic experience.
Chu praised Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda, saying, “Every time she performed, it didn’t feel like Ariana Grande it felt like Glinda. She completely became the character.”
Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, has also been lauded for her emotional depth and connection to the role. Both stars have grown close during production and have publicly shared their joy and exhaustion from the intense process.
Broadway Roots and Novel Inspiration
The Wicked musical premiered on Broadway in 2003 and became a global phenomenon, winning multiple awards. It is based on Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which reimagines the classic Oz characters and story.
Premieres and Fan Excitement
The movie’s world premiere took place in Sydney, where both Ariana and Cynthia expressed their emotions about the journey. The UK premiere is set for Monday, 18 November 2024, in London. Fans are already celebrating with pink and green-themed merchandise flooding the streets.
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Why You Should Watch
If you loved the Broadway show or are curious about the world of Oz, Wicked promises to be an unforgettable cinematic experience. With a stellar cast, breathtaking visuals, and a powerful story about friendship, identity, and acceptance, this is a must-watch for 2024.
Final Words
Mark your calendars for 22 November 2024 and get ready to be swept away by the magic of Wicked. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the story, this film will have something special for everyone.