Wicked Review: A Magical Cinematic Triumph That Lives Up to the Hype

Wicked: the most highly anticipated film of the year so far - was it worth it? From people saying the marketing is too much, to the controversial interviews with Cynthia Ervio and Ariana Grande (and not to mention the abundance of crying), I can confidently say: yes, yes, a hundred times yes, this film is worth your time! 

I’m not a musical theatre enthusiast, in fact I can’t remember the last one I watched, or into singing whatsoever, but it was thoroughly enjoyable nonetheless. I went into it feeling pretty sceptical, but after relaxing in my reclinable seat and cracking open the popcorn bag, I started to feel more open- minded. 

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are mesmerising throughout their roles and I really think they just steal the whole show - I can’t imagine the casting being any other way. The singing is constant and pretty much every other scene has a song in it, but with voices like that, it's impossible to be offended. This is the first time I’ve ever come close to understanding why people listen to musical soundtracks on Spotify! Plus, it's even more impressive knowing they both sang live, especially whilst Cynthia was performing her own stunts and being suspended in a harness. 

You can tell from the sets that a huge amount of work and effort (and clearly an enormous budget) has gone into creating the atmosphere and the magical feeling that it gives. It feels like something special when you’re watching it and I can see why lots of children, and adults alike, will feel inspired by it. Since most of the sets were built at Sky Studios Elstree, just outside of London, and not CGI, maybe someday in the future there could be tours of the set!

The elements of modernity and progression throughout the film were enjoyable as it wasn’t too heavy-handed that it risked being branded as ‘woke’. There was representation for wheelchair users, people who have been bullied, and discrimination against Elphaba for her green skin, which alludes to racism faced regularly by POC in real life. All of these topics were approached and executed well, without taking away from the original plot and the characters, but it felt appropriate that they were acknowledged. 

Part of the fun now having watched it is being able to understand all the online commentary about it. Most of my social media timelines have been overtaken with inside jokes and opinions on the film, so take this as your sign to go and watch it. 

As someone who is not very familiar with the full storyline of Wicked (criminal, I know), I’m excited to see what the ‘part 2’ movie will have in store - bring on the next! 

Edited by: Eleanor Robinson