In all actuality, even in very pivotal moments, she handles the character’s shift in tone so well, giving Glinda a full-rounded arc in only part of the story. Grande-Butera is a charismatic delight and comic relief as Glinda, even in her flaws, is endearing, and it’s enticing to understand how Glinda grows to become a more empathetic person. As far as musicality is concerned, “What Is This Feeling,” “Popular,” and “Defying Gravity” are the moments where she showcases her best musical moments. This is a career-best from Grande-Butera, and this performance will be a highlight for fans of the musical.

As far as other cast members, Jonathan Bailey was charming as Fieyero. Not only was his contribution to the film very fun, but he also made “Dancing Through Life” a really fun musical number, which added an even greater level of excitement for what is yet to come. Michelle Yeoh is excellent as Madame Morrible; all that can really be said is that she is interesting, and in Part 2, it is important that we get more out of the character. With a limited amount of screen time, Jeff Goldblum is ostentatious as The Wizard of Oz. There is so much more to explore from him in Part 2, which is vital to the success of what lies beyond this film. The whole cast gave performances that were worthy, and it is important that the stakes get higher in Part 2 as the film ends on such a climactic high. 

The Enchantment of Oz

The cinematography and production design boats of vibrant colors on a magnificent scale. The cinematography works well in the musical numbers with a sharp focus that is immersive. The cinematography and lighting are best used in dance numbers like “Popular” and “Defying Gravity”; these moments make the film adaptation stand out as a cinematic moment in juxtaposition to its Broadway production. The production design is very interactive; Shiz University personifies what it means to be a school for Wizards.  As for The Emerald City, it is architecturally indigenous to its original heritage while offering a modern and sleek style. At times, the cinematography and lighting are sometimes over-utilized, and it really makes the film more showy than it needs to be. That is the only thing that could have been tailored a bit better. 

With Wicked being a world-renowned Broadway adaptation, it must be taken into account that the musical numbers are close to being on par with the original production. The film takes that into account and does an amazing job translating the Broadway musicalities into a film format. The execution was staggering because the craft and individuality that went into these numbers required a lot of adjustment to pay off.  With the standouts being “No One Mourns The Wicked,” “What Is This Feeling,” “Dancing Through Life,” “Popular,” and “Defying Gravity,”  fans of the musical and newcomers are given a lot to work and take away with as it hones in on its atmosphere.

What Becomes of Wickedness

Wicked is a more than faithful Broadway-to-film adaptation that goes above and beyond. The film boasts grand visuals and well-choreographed musical numbers that fans and newcomers can enjoy. Jon M. Chu’s direction is superb and justified in its runtime. With the film split into two parts, it is very fitting, especially as the film ended on a spectacularly invigorating note. The chemistry between Ariana Grande-Butera and Cynthia Erivo is the undeniable crown jewel of the film, and the fans of the Broadway adaptation have a lot to look forward to. 

See Wicked in theaters on November 22!