The musical Wicked: The Tale of the Witch of the West is one of the most talked-about new releases of the year. In the recently published shortlist for the upcoming Oscars, the film found itself nominated in several categories, including "Best Visual Effects" and "Best Music."
Impressive musical numbers, colorful sets, and a magical world have already made it a true hit. Let's explore what makes this film so special.
Reimagining a well-known fairy tale
Audiences are accustomed to the story where Dorothy, upon arriving in the Land of Oz, defeats the wicked witch Elphaba by dousing her with water. However, the film Wicked begins with a celebration where the residents of Oz rejoice over the villain's demise. The good witch Glinda, who joins the festivities, reminisces about her acquaintance with Elphaba.
It turns out that Glinda and Elphaba not only studied at the same academy but also shared a dorm room. Initially, their relationship was tense: the introverted Elphaba, who preferred a gothic style of clothing, clashed with the carefree Glinda, who loved pink outfits. But over time, the girls realized that Elphie (as Glinda nicknamed Elphaba) was not wicked; she was simply different due to her green skin.
Wicked featuring Ariana Grande: a musical that has managed to win over even the most biased viewers—what makes it special? Wicked: The Tale of the Witch of the West is a colorful, large-scale fantasy with high-quality computer graphics and an engaging plot. The film is an adaptation of the 2003 musical, which, in turn, is based on Gregory Maguire's book. Therefore, viewers familiar with the original are unlikely to be surprised by the plot twists.
The meticulousness with which the Land of Oz is recreated, along with the fact that many events unfold within the walls of the academy for wizards, occasionally evokes comparisons to Harry Potter. However, Wicked has its own unique elements, such as a library with a cylindrical bookshelf that transforms into a stage during one of the musical numbers.
Critics' Opinions and Acting Performance
Foreign critics unanimously praise the performances of the lead actresses. However, opinions on Ariana Grande's portrayal of Glinda are mixed: while she fits well into the role of the airhead in pink, she does not convey genuine human emotions, according to some ctitics. Nevertheless, some predict her an Oscar. On the other hand, Cynthia Erivo's performance as Elphaba, who has to portray a more complex emotional range, is commendable in almost all registers.
Moreover, Wicked serves as a statement on tolerance and the rejection of anything that seems "different." The film's message is quite transparent, even though at times the screenwriters lose their tone, making the characters speak in slogans. Thus, Wicked is a film that not only entertains but also prompts reflection on important social issues.
