Critics Have Seen Wicked, And They’re Gushing Over How The Hit Broadway Musical Adaptation Defies Gravity

Critics Have Seen Wicked, And They’re Gushing Over How The Hit Broadway Musical Adaptation Defies Gravity

As a gamer who’s lived through countless RPG adventures and musical numbers in video games, I can confidently say that the hype surrounding the live-action adaptation of Wicked is nothing short of epic. Having grown up with the original Broadway cast recording blasting from my headphones, I was initially skeptical about how well they could bring this magical tale to life on the big screen. But after reading these glowing reviews, I’m more excited than ever to see Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo defy gravity (and maybe even level up their characters) in this much-anticipated film.


Even though we’re just over a month and a half from wrapping up this year, there are still many highly anticipated movies on the 2024 schedule yet to be released. This weekend, though, could see the release of what might turn out to be the biggest among them – the first part of the long-awaited movie adaptation of Wicked. As audiences eagerly wait for its nationwide premiere, critics have already shared their reviews after a wave of social media buzz, and they’re praising the film starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo for surpassing expectations, much like one of the musical’s famous numbers suggests.

To begin with, Riley Utley from TopMob penned down in their review of “Wicked” that director John M. Chu grasped the musical task flawlessly, earning it a top score of 5 out of 5 stars. Impressed not only by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s portrayals as Elphaba and Galinda, but also by the choreography, set design, the ensemble cast, and numerous other aspects, Utley concluded that these elements were all commendable. In summary, she found the movie to be exceptional in many ways.

All in all, Wicked is a remarkable production. It skillfully expands upon its original material and infuses it with cinematic enchantment, elevating an exceptional musical even further. Immediately following its release, I believe it will be hailed as one of the greatest musicals ever made, primarily due to the immense dedication, passion, and craftsmanship displayed by the cast and crew in bringing this captivating tale to life.

Helen O’Hara from Empire didn’t completely fall in love with Wicked, awarding it 4 out of 5 stars. However, she did commend Chu’s work and the choices made for the lead actors, although she found the supporting cast to be “solid but not as well supported.” As she expressed:

The vibrancy and extravagance are intensified to astonishing, nearly overpowering levels, yet it’s Erivo and Grande, portraying the central adversaries, who truly enchant with their performances.

Rachel Labonte, in her review for ScreenRant, expressed that “Wicked” was nearly perfect as a musical adaptation, despite the fact that it only covered Act 1 events and songs of the original production.

By the finale of Wicked, I was convinced that I, too, might buck gravity – such was the spell it cast on me through its captivating music, stunning set design, and exceptional performances. While I could ramble on endlessly about my impressions (as a die-hard fan like myself often does), I’ll keep this brief: if you were enchanted by the original musical, you’re guaranteed a wickedly enjoyable experience with this adaptation as well.

As an ardent fan, I can’t help but express my awe for the Wicked movie, which not only transcends gravity but shatters high expectations as well. This stunning adaptation of the Broadway musical truly dazzles, earning a well-deserved 9 out of 10 from me. Despite its lengthy 160-minute runtime, it never feels draggy. Although not everything in the film works perfectly, the overwhelming positives far outshine the minor flaws. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this captivating cinematic interpretation a watch.

In the skilled hands of Jon M. Chu, “Wicked” operates smoothly, exemplifying what contemporary musical films ought to strive for. It skillfully adapts its original work while creatively transferring it to the screen. The heart-wrenching portrayals by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo truly shine in this film, showcasing their unique talents to bring Glinda and Elphaba to life – the characters who will eventually become the well-known good and wicked witches from “The Wizard of Oz.” If audiences embrace this movie as much as I did, there’s no doubt that Grande and Erivo’s performances in “Wicked” will leave an indelible mark on the annals of musical film history.

Ultimately, Jonathan Sim from ComingSoon gave Wicked an 8 out of 10, hailing it as the “outstanding movie musical of 2024.” He was particularly impressed with the cast’s acting and the catchy tunes, but he was most taken aback by the film’s stunning cinematography. However, ending on a high note, Sim commended:

The musical “Wicked” is an unforgettable spectacle that will delight any music enthusiast. It significantly enhances the theatrical experience by developing characters, causing laughter, and stirring emotions.

These are just a few of the critics who’ve shared their thoughts on Wicked, so feel free to look around to see what other people are saying. Overall though, it looks like this will be another cinematic win for 2024, which will likely translate into major box office numbers. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are joined in Wicked’s cast by Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage and Bowen Yang, among others. Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox both worked on the script.

Feel free to form your own opinion about the movie “Wicked” when it hits theaters this coming Friday, November 22, coinciding with the release of “Gladiator II”. Make a note in your calendar as well, for “Wicked Part Two” is slated for release a decade later on November 21, according to the 2025 movie schedule.

Read More

Sorry. No data so far.

2024-11-20 01:07