Wicked, Worth the Wait?

After years of anticipation the movie musical adaptation of “Wicked Part One” has been released. Unfortunately, fans will have to wait another year for part two to be released in fall 2025. Usually, I find it hard to sit through movies, especially when I’m not allowed to go on my phone. So when I learned the movie was 2 hours and 45 minutes long I was a bit concerned I’d be bored. However the movie flew by in the best way possible, I felt no scene was dragged out or too short. Wizard of Oz has always been one of my favorite movies and Wicked captured that same magic. I’ve also always enjoyed the Wicked soundtrack so hearing these renditions moved me. 

Before seeing the movie I saw many interviews with the leading ladies, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in which I learned they sang live throughout the film and did their stunts. This made their performances come alive in the movie instead of seeing them lipsync to a track. One of my favorite scenes was when Ariana’s character, Galinda gives Elphaba her iconic pointy hat as a way to embarrass her at the Ozdust dance, but when Galinda learns Elphaba put in a good word with her to the head sorceress, she feels bad and later in the scene their friendship forms.

For a while, most movies coming out have been sequels, remakes, and movie adaptations. Oftentimes these movies disappoint or add unnecessary plot points. I felt this movie was exactly what fans had hoped for and left many pleasantly surprised. The parts that were added I felt only increased the quality of the story and added more information for the viewer. People all over the world are enjoying this movie including students at Waukee High School, for example, senior Selma Fetic stated, “I liked how similar it was to the Broadway production, and how much effort they put into making it seem similar. I also loved the cameos from Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, they were amazing”. Junior Liam Toohey stated, “I think it was a masterpiece”.  I think everyone should take the time to go see this movie, and if you did, what do you think? 

Graphic by Bayla Boyce using Canva