The musical *Wicked*, acclaimed worldwide for more than two decades in broadwayfinally reaches the cinema with its first adaptation, which will premiere next November 21. Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his work on *In the Heights*, the film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Ariana Grande like Glinda, the Good Witch.
History offers a new vision of the world of ozbased on the novel by Gregory Maguire *Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West*. This work reinvents the classic *The Wizard of Oz* by L. Frank Baum, exploring themes such as the fight against injustice and prejudice. The film will be presented in two parts, with its second installment scheduled for November 2025.
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The plot centers on Elphaba, a young woman who has been marginalized her entire life because of the green color of her skinand Glinda, a charming and popular witch who, despite their differences, develops an unexpected friendship with her while they both study at Shiz University.
However, a meeting with Wizard of Oz reveals dark truths about the kingdom, leading the two friends on opposite paths: Elphaba, misunderstood and vilified, fights for justice, while Glinda chooses to become a beloved figure in the town. This complex relationship and its consequences shape the legacy of these iconic Oz figures.
Director Jon M. Chu is committed to maintaining the essence of the musical while expanding its narrative on the big screen. The creative team includes Stephen Schwartz, who composed the original music, and Winnie Holzman, the musical’s screenwriter, who have worked together to adapt the play to film.
Additionally, production design is by Nathan Crowley, known for his work on films such as *Dunkirkand the visual effects are led by Pablo Helman, recognized for his work on *The Irishman*. Chu has expressed that his goal is transport viewers to a fully immersive Ozexploring corners that could not be represented on stage.
The cast is made up of prominent figures such as Jeff Goldblumwho plays the Wizard of Oz; Michelle Yeoh in the role of Madame Morrible; Jonathan Bailey as Prince Fiyero; and Peter Dinklage, who voices Dr. Dillamond, a talking goat who faces discrimination in the kingdom of Oz. Cynthia Erivo has noted that playing Elphaba has been a transformative experience, highlighting the strength and complexity of her character.
For its part, Ariana Grande has highlighted that Glinda, despite her superficial appearance, hides an emotional depth that she explores in the film.
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Since his debut in Broadway in 2003, *Wicked* has become a global cultural phenomenon, with productions in more than 16 countries and a host of accolades, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards. The film adaptation seeks to capture that magic and bring it to a new audience, offering a unique visual and emotional experience.
According to producer Marc Platt, cinema provides the opportunity to delve into moments and scenarios that were not possible in the theater, allowing viewers to explore the world of Oz like never before. The premiere of *Wicked* promises to be one of the most anticipated film events of the year, inviting everyone to discover the untold story of the Witches of Oz.
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