Oscars 2025: "Wicked" review

Graphic by Caitlin Orsino

Have you been replaying the riff of “Defying Gravity” in your head since November? If you have been, you are not alone. Beyond Cynthia Erivo’s voice and the memorable PR campaign, “Wicked” will also be known as one of the most remarkable musical adaptations in history.

The filmmakers did not cut corners when making this movie. The casting is stellar; Cynthia Erivo soars (get it?) as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. Let’s state the obvious: her voice is beautiful. She elevated every song from the original musical and made it her own. New fans of “Wicked” will remember her as THE Elphaba, and for good reason. 

Erivo’s voice is not the only thing that will make you cry, the acting from the whole cast really immerses you in the whole experience. The chemistry between Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo makes it seem like they had lived through this story before. 

Seeing a pop singer such as Grande cast in such a notable role as Glinda did turn some heads. What some fail to realize is she has extensive musical theater and acting experience that came in handy when preparing to play Glinda. Grande’s quirky and bubbly persona made her the right choice in this film.

With excellent lead casting choices, this movie begins with a strong start. However, if we step away from the acting, there is a whole new layer to Oz that is to be revealed in this adaptation. The film’s production design is gorgeous. Although there was original material from the stage production to work off of, the magic that was able to be accomplished on screen expands a world we are all familiar with. 

A new look of the Emerald City adds to the whimsy that it is already well known for. The visuals of Shiz University will make any college student want to transfer to study magic. Even locations seen in "The Wizard of Oz” are reimagined in “Wicked” while still maintaining the charm of the set from the original 1939 film.

Plus, “Wicked” wouldn’t be possible without a well-versed visionary. Director Jon Chu is no stranger to musicals. Having previously directed “In the Heights,” Chu brought his expertise and knowledge to a whole new level in his latest work. His direction ensures that the adaptation retains the original charm of the Broadway musical. With his leadership, he found a way to craft one of the most memorable cinematic experiences of this decade.