It’s time to try defying gravity.
Theatre buffs, get ready to be spellbound as Wicked is set to grace the silver screen near you. The highly-anticipated musical fantasy film, releasing on 21 November 2024, has been a hot topic of discussion since its announcement.
Set in the Land of Oz before Dorothy Gale’s arrival, the movie heavily focuses on themes of friendship, love, and resilience. As a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, Wicked delves into the compelling journey of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and the Good Witch, Glinda. The award-winning musical, with its powerful messages, has garnered global recognition for its beautiful melodies and visual spectacle.
Here are a few fun facts about ‘Wicked’
When the film adaptation of the musical was announced, theatre fans around the world rejoiced at the prospect of this silver screen moment. Directed by Jon M. Chu (“Crazy Rich Asians”), the film has further elevated its status by enlisting the talents of Tony Winner Cynthia Erivo and Grammy Winner Ariana Grande.
Wicked is the most talked-about musical film
Image credit: Getty Images
With the ever-growing popularity of the Broadway musical, the silver screen adaptation has transcended to greater heights with the remarkable casting. With Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo onboard, other cast members include Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Keala Settle, and Peter Dinklage, to name a few.
The musical film will run around two hours and 45 minutes.
Part one will cover the first half of the film, mimicking the intermission of watching the Broadway musical. Don’t fret; the adventure continues with Wicked: Part 2 in 2025.
Image credit: Getty Images
Glinda is Ariana Grande’s dream role
Before landing her dream role, popstar Ariana Grande has always had a soft spot for Broadway. When the cast of Wicked was announced, fans celebrated with Ariana on this incredible feat. According to People, a tweet made by the pop star herself in 2011 resurfaced in the public eye.
“Loved seeing Wicked again … amazing production! Made me realize again how badly I want 2 play Glinda at some point in my life! #DreamRole.”
This role is meant for Ariana. In fact, Ariana uses her full name, Ariana Grande-Butera, in the film’s credits as a tribute to herself and how being a part of this film allowed her to reconnect with her younger self.
Cynthia Erivo is soaring high
Image credit: Getty Images
Cynthia Erivo is no stranger to the stage. With various accolades under her wings, she received a Daytime Emmy Award, a Grammy award and a Tony Award. That’s not all – she was also nominated for two Academy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Her role in the film, starring alongside Ariana, creates a magical collaboration that enhances the film’s success.
Ariana and Cynthia sing live on set
Just like in the Broadway musical, the mighty duo sang live on set, making this film an exciting twist for fans. According to TMZ, they chose to sing live for every scene.
Friendships bloom between Ariana and Cynthia
When filming of the movie wrapped, their friendship blossomed as the stars got matching ‘Wicked’ tattoos to commemorate their time filming and landing their dream roles.
The stars got the words “For Good” and an illustration of a poppy as references to the film.
Where can you watch the Wicked film?
The movie will be released on 21 November 2024, and you can start booking your tickets on GSC and TGV.
———————————————–
All images courtesy of Getty Images
