From Stage to Screen: Wicked Delivers a Magical Cinematic Experience

Wicked ( Courtesy/IMDB)

Wicked, one of the most beloved and enduring stage musicals, has made its dazzling debut on the big screen as a spectacular cinematic event this holiday season. 

This highly anticipated adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu, marks the first installment of a two-part film series, with Wicked: Part Two set to hit theaters on November 21, 2025.

The film delves into the untold story of the witches of Oz, focusing on the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Cynthia Erivo delivers a powerhouse performance as Elphaba, a misunderstood young woman grappling with her unique powers and green skin. Ariana Grande brings charm and depth to Glinda, a popular young woman whose journey reveals her inner strength and compassion.

The film begins by celebrating the Wicked Witch’s death but quickly flashes back to a poignant retelling of the friendship between these two iconic characters; exploring themes of identity, ambition and loyalty. Fans of the original musical will recognize beloved moments and songs brought to life with breathtaking visuals and emotionally resonant performances.

The production, led by Marc Platt and David Stone, brings the same magic that made the Broadway show a cultural phenomenon. With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, including the iconic songs “Defying Gravity” and “For Good,” and a screenplay co-written by Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, the film honors its source material while expanding the world of Oz for a cinematic audience.

Visually stunning and emotionally stirring, Wicked captures the heart of its stage roots while standing as a bold cinematic experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, this film invites you to discover—or rediscover—the wonders of Oz.

Annia Matthews, a recent Howard alum and longtime fan of the story said, “I saw the musical back in 2015 when we were on tour in Arizona.”

Reflecting on the moments that stood out to her the most in the film, she highlighted her favorite scene.

“My favorite scene was the very beginning when they were singing No One Mourns The Wicked. It was very intense to me and captured the essence of a musical,” she said.

She also appreciated the film’s intricate connections to its roots, noting the many subtle nods to its source material:

 “As someone who knows the entire story, there are a ton of easter eggs in the film referring to the original Wizard of Oz and the musical. 

Wicked redefines what it means to deliver a classic story to the big screen, with amazing performances, legendary music and breathtaking imagery. There are still hidden stories in the Land of Oz worth finding, as the film brilliantly strikes a balance between nostalgia for enthusiasts and a new perspective for beginners. It’s a cinematic event that encourages audiences to consider subjects like friendship, ambition, and the true meaning of being “wicked” or “good.”