The highly anticipated adaptation movie of the Broadway show Wicked was released on Nov. 22. The second most successful Broadway show, originally starring Kristen Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, is finally coming to life on the big screen. I myself have been eagerly awaiting the new version of this beloved musical, while wondering if it can live up to the original stage production.

Wicked has been a hit since its Broadway debut in 2003, winning multiple awards, including three Tony Awards. Its popularity has only grown over the years, attracting audiences worldwide and inspiring countless fans. The musical’s themes of friendship and societal judgment continue to spread, inviting the audience to reconsider the true meaning of “good” and “evil.”

One thing is clear: it absolutely does.

Wicked, following the original story, tells the story of Elphaba, a green-skinned girl judged unfairly by others, and Glinda, a popular young woman. They meet at school and become “unusually and exceedingly peculiar” friends as they came from different lives. Glinda becomes loved by Oz, while Elphaba is unfairly seen as evil because she is “different.” The movie shows their struggles with love, friendship and standing up for what’s right, ending with a powerful lesson about being true to yourself.

Cynthia Erivo plays the role of Elphaba which she brought to life with a mix of vulnerability and strength. Her portrayal shines in moments like “Defying Gravity,” where her raw vocals and emotional delivery show Elphaba’s inner desires and determination. Ariana Grande, playing the role of Glinda, perfectly captured Glinda’s bubbly and charming personality, delivering a performance filled with passion and thoughtfulness. Songs like “Popular” highlight her comedic timing, while also hinting at Glinda’s real self beneath her cheerful exterior such as the song “No one Mourns the Wicked.”

These weren’t just roles to Grande and Erivo, they embodied these characters making it more personal, as they created their own unique interpretations into Glinda and Elphaba.

Together, Erivo and Grande created a heartfelt friendship that becomes a strong focus of the film. The rest of the cast also has a huge influence on the movie such as The Wizard whose manipulative nature adds a layer of depth into the film and Fiyero who adds emotion through his loyalty and growth.

The set is nothing short of magical, as CGI was rarely used. Instead, the set was all crafted physically, such as Shiz University and the Emerald City. I think what I found the most crazy is that the producers planted 9 million tulips for the opening scene. The set featured vibrant colors that stood out to the audience, with special effects such as when Elphaba finds herself and flies in “Defying Gravity” that made the magic of Oz come to life.

Each of the characters’ costumes reflects their personality. Elphaba’s dark color choices symbolize her status and strength, while Glinda’s light, elegant gowns in soft pinks highlight her sunny, glamorous nature. All the other students wear school uniforms in blue, while Glinda and Elphaba wear black and pink to show their importance in the film.

Each song in the film had an incredible and unique charm, but only a few stood out to me. “No One Mourns the Wicked,” the opening song, sets the tone for the entire movie with its dramatic and celebratory vibe. “What Is This Feeling?” is a comedic highlight, using playful lyrics to define the initial rivalry between Elphaba and Glinda. “Popular” showcases Glinda’s charm and humor, delivered perfectly by Grande with her preppy energy. “Dancing Through Life” brings a carefree, rebellious atmosphere that reflects Fiyero’s personality. Finally, “Defying Gravity” stands out as the most emotional piece of the movie, with Erivo’s stunning vocals creating a powerful and unforgettable moment.

Their vocals were raw and filled with so much talent that it’s hard to believe that some actors sang live. The choreography was also staged incredibly well with sweeping gestures to make the moment more powerful.

Wicked isn’t just a movie. It’s a lesson about standing up for what’s right and finding your true identity. It encourages us to embrace our differences and cherish our friendships. Stepping into the magical world of Oz is an experience that will stay with you, as its powerful message lingers long after the credits roll.