Well, that was absolutely wicked! I’ve never been a big fan of musicals, but Wicked: Part 1 completely blew me away—it’s a true cinematic masterpiece. Every element was beautifully executed from the stunning set and costume design to the choreography, casting, and music. Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum delivered phenomenal performances. The film’s opening immediately draws you in with its tone and clever foreshadowing, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. I especially loved the exploration of Elphaba’s backstory and her friendship with Glinda—it added so much depth. The journey through the film was captivating from start to finish, ending on an expected yet impactful cliffhanger.
Ariana Grande delivered an exceptional performance, transitioning seamlessly from her Nickelodeon roots to starring in major productions with Universal. Her portrayal of Glinda was spot-on, perfectly embodying a character who expects the world to bend to her will. With flawless singing and dancing, Ariana brought charm to every musical number. Throughout the film, Glinda’s dynamic with Elphaba evolves as she discovers something unique in her, leading to a growing bond. However, their friendship faces a critical turning point before the dramatic cliffhanger.
Ariana is joined by co-stars Bowen Yang and Bronwyn James. If Bowen Yang’s name rings a bell, it’s because he’s a familiar face from SNL. Both actors play Glinda’s close friends, offering loyal support and remaining by her side for most of the story. When it comes to the Wizard, they couldn’t have chosen a more perfect actor than Jeff Goldblum. Honestly, he was the main reason I decided to see the film in the first place as well. His voice and presence bring a touch of magic to every project he’s part of, and this one was no exception—I loved every second he was on screen and cannot wait to see him once more in Part 2.
Overall, the film was a true cinematic masterpiece from start to finish. It masterfully set the stage with a well-crafted backstory and subtle foreshadowing, effectively establishing the tone and making it clear that this story wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. While I’m usually not a fan of musicals, this film exceeded my expectations in every way. From the music to the costumes and the stunning set designs, it’s evident that immense care went into creating this movie. The filmmakers were clearly committed to delivering an exceptional theatrical experience, and they absolutely succeeded.