Film Review: Wicked [2024] – Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey

Wicked, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande proves that, sometimes, typecasting works. A Magical musical with tons of contemporary meanings.

First, let me get something off my chest. I am not Grande’s biggest fan, I am not a fan. Period. But director Jon M. Chu managed to do something genius and magical in casting her as Galinda / Glinda. A self-absorbed blond diva type influencer who has zero natural talent. That being said, she fits the role perfectly, minus some pitchy high notes.

On the other hand, I bow down to the powers be that are Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Yeoh, and Jonathan Bailey. First off, Yeoh. Yes, she can’t sing. But who needs her to sing? Her presence alone as Madame Morrible is commanding enough that she steals the scenes even from the two stars.

As for Jonathan Bailey, he apparently can’t do anything wrong. His F*** boy portrayal of Fiyero is on point, and gets all sides fired up. I know I was. Also, that smile, mixed with those fitting costumes, makes up for any lack of charisma with Grande.

Last, our witch, Cynthia Erivo proves yet again that she’s one of the most underestimated actresses in our modern day. From amazing vocals, to powerful scenes as Elphaba, I was giggling, and crying, in every scene of hers. Keep in mind that I haven’t seen the musical play.

All in all, Wicked is magical because it’s musical theater with a budget that happens to be filmed. Not a play forced to be a movie. And this is thanks to amazing work by Jon M. Chu and everyone involved.

Should you watch it?

Wicked has plenty of heart and plenty of brain. Yes, it could have been fifteen minutes shorter, but I didn’t mind diving deeper into the background of two iconic witches that we all grew up with. Next year’s sequel can’t come fast enough.

Where can I watch it?

Wicked is now playing in theaters.