The much-awaited film adaptation of Wicked is finally about to hit the big screen, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled! Based on the hit musical that reimagines The Wizard of Oz from a fresh and unexpected perspective, Wicked: Part One is arriving in the UK in less than three weeks. Anticipation is building to see how this unique twist on Dorothy’s world will translate to the screen, bringing to life the story of how the iconic yellow brick road journey began. This first installment will introduce audiences to Elphaba, the green-skinned witch destined to become the Wicked Witch of the West, and her counterpart, Glinda the Good Witch. With powerhouse casting choices and a stellar creative team, this two-part adaptation has fans and critics alike on the edge of their seats.
The Story Behind Wicked
The musical Wicked, first premiering on Broadway in 2003, tells the untold story of the witches of Oz. Before Dorothy dropped into Oz, there was a fierce rivalry, and eventually a friendship, between two young women who would grow up to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. Wicked offers a new perspective on these iconic characters, turning them from the one-dimensional figures of The Wizard of Oz into layered, complex individuals with deep backstories.
This Broadway blockbuster didn’t just change the way audiences thought about The Wizard of Oz; it made history with its own monumental success. By 2016, the musical had pulled in over $1 billion in revenue. That’s a staggering achievement, marking it as one of the most financially successful Broadway productions of all time. With such a legacy, it’s no wonder that fans have been eagerly awaiting a film adaptation for years.
Why Two Parts?
Director Jon M. Chu, known for his visionary storytelling, revealed in a heartfelt message to fans why Wicked is being split into two films. According to Chu, capturing the entire essence of Wicked in just one movie would have required cutting essential characters and beloved songs. The decision to go with two films, he explained, wasn’t taken lightly; it’s about doing justice to the rich narrative and multi-dimensional characters that fans have cherished for so long.
“As we tried to cut songs or trim characters, those decisions began to feel like fatal compromises,” Chu explained. “We decided to give ourselves a bigger canvas and make not just one Wicked movie but two! With more space, we can tell the story as it was meant to be told, bringing even more depth and surprise to these beloved journeys.”
By splitting Wicked into two parts, Chu promises a more immersive experience, where fans can dive deeply into the story and explore the emotions and conflicts of each character.
Release Dates and What’s Next
Wicked: Part One is scheduled to hit theaters in the U.S. on November 22, with a UK release following on November 27. The second part of the saga is slated for a November 2025 release, a full year later, to ensure that audiences can savor each part of this groundbreaking story.
For those eager to see what Wicked: Part One will bring, it’s shaping up to be a pre-holiday season treat! And with the follow-up on the horizon, fans have even more to look forward to as this extraordinary tale unfolds.
Meet the Cast
One of the most thrilling aspects of Wicked’s adaptation is its exceptional cast. Here’s a closer look at the stars bringing these beloved characters to life:
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Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba: British actress Cynthia Erivo, known for her powerful performances and captivating stage presence, will take on the iconic role of Elphaba. Erivo has already proven her talent with a Tony Award-winning performance in The Color Purple. She also portrayed Aretha Franklin in the series Genius and has been a standout in various television shows.
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Ariana Grande as Glinda: Pop superstar Ariana Grande steps into the sparkling shoes of Glinda. While widely celebrated for her music, Grande’s roots are in musical theater—she made her Broadway debut at just 15 in the musical 13. With her Nickelodeon days behind her, Grande is set to charm audiences with her portrayal of Glinda, giving fans a chance to see her theatrical talents on full display.
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Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero: Known for his role as Lord Anthony Bridgerton in Bridgerton, Jonathan Bailey brings his own theatrical prowess to the role of Fiyero. Bailey has been acting on stage since childhood, including roles in Royal Shakespeare Company productions, and has taken on challenging roles like Gavroche in Les Miserables.
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Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard: Adding a touch of star power, Jeff Goldblum joins the cast as the Wizard. With an impressive career in Hollywood blockbusters like Jurassic Park and Independence Day, Goldblum’s iconic presence will add a unique dimension to the character. He also has experience in theater, having performed in both Broadway and West End productions.
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Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible: The Oscar-winning Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh, celebrated for her roles in Crazy Rich Asians and Everything Everywhere All At Once, joins the Wicked cast as Madame Morrible. Yeoh’s addition to the ensemble is particularly exciting, given her versatile acting range and international acclaim.
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Ethan Slater as Boq: Broadway’s very own SpongeBob SquarePants, Ethan Slater, will play Boq. Nominated for a Tony for his role as SpongeBob, Slater brings youthful energy to the cast, and there’s even buzz about an off-screen romance between him and co-star Ariana Grande.
What Fans Are Saying
The excitement among Wicked fans is palpable. Since the film's announcement, there has been an outpouring of anticipation across social media, with fans sharing their love for the musical and excitement to see it reimagined on the big screen. Clips released in recent weeks have only fueled the buzz, with fans speculating on how certain iconic moments and songs will be adapted for film.
Fans have a lot to look forward to, as Wicked brings together a dream team of actors, a compelling director, and a beloved story that has resonated for decades. Each of these elements combined promises an unforgettable cinematic experience, rich with emotions, powerful performances, and the kind of magic that only a story like Wicked can deliver.
What Makes Wicked So Special?
Wicked is more than just a prequel to The Wizard of Oz. It’s a deep dive into friendship, rivalry, and the gray areas between good and evil. It explores complex themes about identity, destiny, and the choices that shape us. It’s a story of two young women on different paths, who navigate a world that sometimes misunderstands them, a theme that resonates universally.
As the countdown to Wicked: Part One continues, fans are already counting down the days. Whether you’re a longtime lover of the musical or discovering it for the first time, Wicked promises to be a cinematic event you won’t want to miss. Grab your popcorn, mark your calendars, and get ready to journey back to the land of Oz like you’ve never seen it before!
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