Critics Weigh In on Wicked: A Spellbinding Cinematic Journey

Jon M. Chu’s Wicked, the long-anticipated cinematic adaptation of the Broadway phenomenon, has finally landed in theaters, offering audiences a dazzling reimagining of Oz's witches. Critics have responded with praise, reflecting on the film’s strengths and its moments of magic. Here's what they had to say:

Stellar Performances Anchor the Film

The heart of Wicked lies in its performances, particularly those of its two leads: Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. Erivo delivers a powerful, emotionally resonant portrayal of the green-skinned outsider, with her rendition of “Defying Gravity” already hailed as a standout moment. Her ability to convey vulnerability and determination has drawn widespread acclaim. Peter Travers of ABC News described her performance as a "display of song, dance and acting virtuosity." Grande, stepping into Glinda’s sparkly shoes, imbues the role with a fresh and earnest charm. Critics noted her comedic timing and vocal prowess, especially in her playful performance of “Popular.” Together, their chemistry provides the emotional core of the film.

Supporting performances also shine, with Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero standing out for his charismatic energy and a memorable take on “Dancing Through Life.”

A Feast for the Eyes

Visually, Wicked is a grand spectacle. Critics were largely impressed by the elaborate set designs, vibrant costumes, and overall effort to create a fantastical Oz that feels immersive. “It’s a visual feast,” one critic noted, highlighting the intricate detail of the Emerald City and the contrast between the different regions of Oz. eter Debruge of Variety appreciated the film's embrace of its musical identity, stating that "Wicked embraces its identity the way Elphaba does her emerald skin."

The Music Delivers

A key draw of Wicked is its unforgettable score by Stephen Schwartz, and the film largely succeeds in delivering the musical’s beloved numbers. Erivo and Grande bring their unique talents to the iconic songs, giving fans fresh interpretations of classics like “For Good” and “No One Mourns the Wicked.” Critics especially praised the way Chu captures the emotional heft of these moments, using cinematic techniques to enhance the impact of the music.

A Tale of Two Halves

The story, which explores the unlikely friendship between Elphaba and Glinda while delving into issues of prejudice and power, remains a compelling narrative. Critics appreciated the depth of the characters and the way the film provides fresh insights into their motivations. However, Wicked’s sprawling runtime—clocking in at 2 hours and 40 minutes—drew some criticism. Many felt the film could have benefited from tighter pacing, in the age where audiences have been accustomed to 90-120 minute films.

Balancing the Magic and the Message

A recurring critique of Wicked is its struggle to balance spectacle with substance. While the film’s themes of societal exclusion, authoritarianism, and the complexity of morality are timely and thought-provoking, some felt these elements were overshadowed by the dazzling visuals and musical numbers. Others, however, praised Chu for attempting to tackle such heavy themes within the context of a mainstream blockbuster.

Final Verdict

Wicked is a bold and ambitious adaptation that aims to honor its stage roots while crafting a cinematic experience. Its stellar performances, unforgettable music, and stunning visuals make it a must-see for fans of the original musical. However, its pacing issues and occasional tonal inconsistencies may leave some audiences feeling the film is slightly overstuffed.

For diehard fans of Wicked, this is a chance to see Elphaba and Glinda's story reimagined in a way that captures much of the original’s magic. For newcomers, it’s a gateway into the enchanting, complex world of Oz—albeit one that sometimes falters under the weight of its own ambition.