‘The Wizard of Oz’ and its prequel ‘Wicked’ have continued to capture the hearts of millions worldwide; this new adaptation of ‘Wicked’ is no exception. Like the classic 1995 novel, of a similar name, and its musical, this modern adaptation does not disappoint.
The highly anticipated new ‘Wicked,’ set to hit theaters this year, has been the talk of the town. And perhaps the best news yet is its release date has been moved up, so the wait is shorter than ever! Dive into all the magical details of this spellbinding film.
Wicked: Two Movies, Twice the Magic
To do this iconic story justice, there will be not just one but two films in the ‘Wicked’ franchise. To make sure the story is told right, audiences will get an in-depth depiction of both Galinda and Elphaba’s origin stories throughout the two films.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, both films will star music sensation and actress Ariana Grande as Galinda and Broadway actress and singer Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. The two movies’ split will ensure that no songs from the story are cut and that it stays loyal to Wicked, the musical, fandom.
Enchanting Endorsement: ‘Wicked’ Originals Cheer on Film’s New Stars!”
Kristin Chenoweth, who played the original role of Galinda in Broadway’s ‘Wicked’ was quoted as saying that she has never been prouder. Showing her unwavering support of Ariana Grande taking on the iconic role of Galinda she went on to say that Grande was born to play it. While also praising Cynthia Erivo as being a wonderful Elphaba counterpart.
That means a lot coming from the original ‘Good Witch.’ Meanwhile, Idina Menzel, the original Broadway Elphaba echoed the same sentiments. Menzel congratulated both women, Grande and Erivo, on landing the roles that changed their lives forever while sending them so much love.
From Stage to Screen: How Will the Magic of ‘Wicked’ Adapt?
Cynthia Erivo revealed that despite wanting to stay true to the original and keep the magic of the story that we all know and love there will be differences in the film. There will be a new spin on some of the iconic scenes and it will showcase this legendary duo in a new light.
And it does not stop there, perhaps what is a musical fan’s ultimate dream come true: there will be new music! The film adaptation of ‘Wicked’ will feature at least four brand-new songs. One of the songs will be a never-before-heard song originally cut from the Broadway production, while the others have been exclusively written for the film.
Defying Gravity: Filming Pulls Through Despite Production Delays
Filming for ‘Wicked’ began in 2022 but not without several production halts and delays. The SAG strikes struck as the film began and caused production to shut down completely. Director Chu confirmed while they were filming that they were stalled a mere days before wrapping up the final scenes left to shoot
But they did not give up and it was so worth the wait. Eventually filming started back up and they managed to get all the shots needed just in time for editing. This film had heart and soul poured into it and we can already tell by the trailer, it’s going to be a good one.
From Emerald City to Your Screen: A Most ‘Popular’ Trailer
Wicked’s first initial teaser trailer premiered during the Super Bowl last February and moments after its release it already amassed 230 million views online. Its first trailer released in May hit a whopping 216 million views and counting. Saying it’s probably on many people’s must-watch list would be an understatement.
And now for the moment, we have all been waiting for, when can we see the movie? Its original release day was supposed to be at the end of 2021 but due to COVID restrictions things were even more delayed. It was announced to be in theaters in December 2024, then moving to Thanksgiving weekend. But now fans won’t have to wait that long with its new release date, November 22.
Casting Magic: The Star-Studded Lineup is What Dreams are Made Of
Not only do we get Grande and Erivo but a whole slew of mega stars that we all know and love. This will only add to the movie’s expected success. Among them, Jeff Goldblum will play the Wizard of Oz, while the seasoned Michelle Yeoh will play Madame Morrible, the headmistress of Shiz University, where Galinda meets Elphaba.
The coveted role of the movie’s love interest could also not be more perfectly cast with Bridgerton’s Jonathan Bailey taking on the role of Fiyero. Nessarose, Elphaba’s younger sister, most known for her ruby slippers in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ will be played by Marissa Bode. Another Broadway alum and Tony-nominated actor Ethan Slater will play her love interest, Boq.
Glimpse Behind the Curtain: Exclusively ‘Wicked’ Wardrobe
We aren’t sure what’s more exciting, Galinda and Elphaba making it to the big screen, the fact that some of the most talented cast is attached, or the insane costumes. There may be no right answer since these costumes are insane, literally magical.
Vanity Fair did not disappoint when they first released an exclusive sneak peek into the mindblowing costumes in Oz. They gave audiences exactly what they came for by revealing Grande’s ultimate Galinda attire. Nothing screams Galinda more than her tiered Hubba Bubba Bubblegum gown and crown. It did not stop there with Erivo’s Elphaba attire not far behind in her dangerously pointy witch’s hat and matching midnight black cape and dress.
Green Glamour: Elphaba’s Bewitching Looks
Cynthia Erivo did not hesitate to share her Elphaba looks to the masses on her social media, alongside official social media for the production who followed suit. These iconic looks were reimagined by none other than Paul Tazewell, who himself comes from the world of Broadway stage work. He has brought some memorable looks to the stage and the screen such as Broadway’s Hamilton and Spielberg’s West Side Story to name a few.
Tazewell holds nothing back when it comes to Wicked the movie. No brick is left unturned and no curtain remains closed. According to Variety, Erivo said while working with Tazewell, she wished for a look inspired by the New World Collection of Jean Paul Gaultier meets Gilded Age.
From Munchkinland to the Emerald City: The Press Tour
Having such a beloved and legendary movie, you better believe the press tour is just as magical. With an attention to detail like no other, someone needs to be given a raise, because Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo dressed in their respective character’s colors is nothing short of genius. The anticipation is spellbinding!
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo spoke on stage during the Universal Pictures and Focus Features Special Presentation in Las Vegas, Nevada, and their looks, like their voices, hit every note perfectly. They were truly meant to play Galinda and Elphaba. How could anyone say otherwise? We can’t wait to meet you at the theater because this is about to be the most ‘popular’ film after its release this winter. The only important question left to ask is what color will you be wearing?
