Wicked: Part One is a 2024 American musical fantasy film directed by Jon M. Chu, with a screenplay by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox. It serves as the first installment of a two-part adaptation of the stage musical Wicked by Stephen Schwartz and Holzman, which is loosely inspired by Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel. Set in the Land of Oz before Dorothy Gale’s arrival, the film follows Elphaba’s journey to becoming the Wicked Witch of the West and her evolving relationship with Glinda, who later becomes Glinda the Good Witch.
Production and Release
Universal Pictures and Marc Platt, who were also producers of the original stage musical, announced the adaptation in 2012. After facing delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Jon M. Chu was appointed as director in 2021. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande were cast in leading roles the same year. The film was divided into two parts to preserve its narrative depth and character development.
Principal photography began in December 2022 in England but was interrupted by the SAG-AFTRA strike in July 2023. Filming concluded in January 2024. Wicked premiered on November 3, 2024, at the State Theatre in Sydney, Australia, and was released theatrically in the U.S. on November 22, 2024.
The film received critical acclaim for its direction, performances (especially by Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Bailey), emotional depth, humor, and faithfulness to the source material. Some critics, however, noted its runtime as a drawback. The sequel, Wicked: Part Two, is scheduled for release on November 21, 2025.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Wicked |
| Director | Jon M. Chu |
| Writers | – Winnie Holzman |
| – Dana Fox | |
| – Gregory Maguire | |
| Stars | – Cynthia Erivo |
| – Ariana Grande | |
| – Jeff Goldblum | |
| IMDB Rating | 8.1/10 |
Plot Summary
Setting and Characters
The story begins after the Wicked Witch of the West has been defeated by Dorothy Gale. Glinda the Good Witch narrates the backstory of the witch, revealing her real name, Elphaba Thropp. The film focuses on Elphaba’s time at Shiz University, where she navigates prejudice, discovers her magical powers, and forms a complex friendship with Glinda, previously known as Galinda Upland.
The Journey at Shiz University
Elphaba, born with green skin, faces ridicule from her peers. Her sister Nessarose, a paraplegic, also attends Shiz. Madame Morrible, the university’s headmistress, notices Elphaba’s magical potential and takes her under her wing. Elphaba and Galinda initially have a frenemy relationship, but they gradually bond.
Elphaba befriends Fiyero, a rebellious Winkie prince who Galinda secretly loves. The story takes a darker turn when Dr. Dillamond, a talking Goat professor, reveals that animals across Oz are losing their ability to speak due to oppressive policies. Elphaba, idolizing the Wizard, hopes he will resolve this crisis.
A Night of Revelations
A trip to the Ozdust Ballroom marks a turning point. Galinda plays a prank by giving Elphaba an eccentric hat, which backfires when the two end up bonding. However, Elphaba’s growing feelings for Fiyero leave her questioning her place in his life.
Dr. Dillamond is forcibly removed from his position, and his replacement, Professor Nikidik, begins experiments on animals. Elphaba and Fiyero rescue a lion cub from captivity, further solidifying their connection.
Meeting the Wizard
Elphaba and Glinda travel to the Emerald City, where Elphaba meets the Wizard. Initially charmed, she becomes disillusioned upon discovering his true nature. The Wizard, with Madame Morrible’s assistance, seeks to exploit Elphaba’s magic to oppress animals further.
The Defining Moment
When Elphaba refuses to comply, she is labeled a “wicked witch” by Morrible. Heartbroken yet determined, Elphaba decides to oppose the Wizard’s regime. In an emotional goodbye, Glinda supports her friend’s decision.
Using a powerful spell, Elphaba gains the ability to fly and escapes, cementing her transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West.
Reception and Legacy
Wicked: Part One explores themes of prejudice, power, and friendship while maintaining the humor and heart of the original musical. The film’s rich visuals, emotional narrative, and memorable performances have set the stage for the highly anticipated sequel.
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https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/wicked_2024
