Here are my spoiler-free thoughts on Wicked before the reviews start rolling in at noon, and what I think we’ll read from critics today: First off, this movie blew me away. It exceeded my expectations in almost every way and is absolutely one of the best musical adaptations of my lifetime. It is an instant classic. As someone who considers Chicago the gold standard of musical films in the last 25 years, Wicked comes very close to matching it—and I’m still debating if it beats it. This isn’t just a straightforward adaptation of the Broadway show; it’s a bold transformation that elevates the material in every way.
Now, as much as I loved it, I think critics will have a few notes. The cinematography has its highs and lows. There are moments where the lighting feels off, and a few scenes don’t pop as much as they should. The Emerald City scenes are vibrant and stunning, and I wish that same boldness of color carried through the entire film. As a Broadway fan, one thing that stood out to me is how packed some of the bigger numbers are. There’s so much happening visually in songs like “What is This Feeling?” that the choreography doesn’t really get a chance to breathe. These are minor critiques, but I expect them to come up in reviews.
There are also a couple of moments of fan service that, while fun, feel a little forced. I loved them as a Wicked fan, but I can see some critics calling them out as unnecessary. Still, they don’t take away from the overall experience.
What really makes this film shine is the humanity Jon Chu brings to it. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are phenomenal—both of them elevate their characters to a level that’s unforgettable. Ariana’s performance is Oscar-worthy, and she’s a serious contender for Best Supporting Actress. Cynthia’s Elphaba is the emotional anchor of the film. Her portrayal is raw and heartbreaking, and in the film format, it hits even harder than on stage.
There’s one scene involving both Ariana and Cynthia that had the entire theater in stunned silence. On stage, this moment usually draws some laughs, but in the film, it’s a complete emotional gut-punch. Both of them deliver performances in that scene that are so authentic and profound, it’s unforgettable.
At nearly three hours long, the film mostly flies by, though transitions in a couple of numbers—like “Dancing Through Life” and “Defying Gravity”— where they add on feel a little awkward when you are used to these moments snapping (or flying by) on stage. These are tiny bumps in an otherwise stunning film.
The costumes are incredible, and I’m going to say that's a lock to win the Oscar. Makeup and hairstyling, production design, sound and film editing nominations also seem likely. I could see it getting nominated for best adaptation given how much they expanded the characters and story in this film, but that will have some stiff competition. I think some of the cinematography issues could keep Chu out of the best directing category, but I won't be surprised to see him in there either. It could also get in for visual effects, though the very last moments are the messiest visually in an otherwise visually stunning film.
I expect overwhelmingly positive reviews today. Wicked is a love letter to Broadway fans, Wizard of Oz fans, and anyone who loves great storytelling. It’s going to create a whole new generation of Wicked lovers, and it’s easily one of the best musical adaptations I’ve seen in a very long time. I can’t wait to see how it’s celebrated in the weeks and months ahead!
