Universal Pictures’ “Wicked” is possibly one of the most iconic movies of 2024. Featuring dynamic characters, colorful sets, and powerful musical numbers, the adaptation of the Broadway musical has been a huge box-office success since its release on Nov. 22.
“Wicked” begins with a searing scene in present-day Munchkinland, where Munchkins burn a giant hay statue of the Wicked Witch of the West. Glinda, the Good Witch of the South, watches in discomfort. Before she leaves, a Munchkin girl asks if it’s true that Glinda and the Wicked Witch were friends. The rest of the movie is set in flashbacks.
In past-day Oz, Galinda (Ariana Grande) prepares for a year at Schiz, the prestigious college a short train ride away from the Emerald City. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) watches her sister, Nessarose (Marissa Bode) prepare for her first year at the school.
Galinda sees Elphaba in the crowd and exclaims, “You’re green!”
After a series of misunderstandings, Elphaba ends up enrolled at Schiz, and, to Galinda’s dismay, they are paired as roommates. After much “unadulterated loathing,” they forge an unlikely friendship.
From her trademark hair “toss-toss” to her energetic performance of “Popular,” Grande’s portrayal of Galinda was so comedic; it’s hard to believe she kept a straight face. A bubbly, delusional, and self-centered character like her is difficult to get audiences to root for, but Grande’s performance quickly became a fan-favorite.
Erivo’s heartfelt portrayal of Elphaba is one for the history books. Erivo masterfully captures Elphaba’s strong sense of justice and authenticity, as well as her deep wish to fit in. The character of Elphaba has always been someone that musical theatre-loving kids look up to, and Erivo perfectly continues that legacy.
Grande and Erivo are best friends both on-screen and off. Their bond made for a phenomenal performance. Their trust in each other elevated their characters’ friendship and rivalry.
One of the most notable things about “Wicked” are the musical numbers. With Grande’s whistle notes in “No One Mourns the Wicked,” Jonathan Bailey’s joyful vocals in “Dancing Through Life,” and Erivo’s iconic belt in “Defying Gravity,” the iconic soundtrack claimed multiple spots on the Billboard Hot 100.
Another notable thing about “Wicked” is the movie’s impact on social media. Many people tried to recreate Erivo’s high note from “Defying Gravity” (most people failed, but they got a good laugh). Hundreds of influencers have also recreated the characters’ distinctive looks through makeup.
“Wicked” has impacted our media in many ways, becoming a legendary moment of 2024. With the actor’s amazing performances, a beautiful soundtrack, and trends galore, the movie has earned a nearly-perfect score from critics. The cliffhanger ending has left many fans impatiently waiting for “Wicked: Part 2,” which is scheduled to be released in November of 2025.
