MOVIE REVIEW | Wicked – The curtain has finally risen on Wicked, the much-anticipated cinematic adaptation of the beloved stage musical, and it was nothing short of magical. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, this first chapter of a two-part event brings the untold story of the witches of Oz to life in a way that left audiences enchanted and clamoring for more.
The hype surrounding Wicked has been palpable, with fans likening it to the fervor of Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings premieres. Moviegoers flooded the theatre dressed in shades of pink and green, channeling Glinda and Elphaba, creating an electric atmosphere that made this feel more like an event than just a movie.
Ariana Grande was absolutely perfect as the bubbly and ambitious Glinda, bringing charisma and nuance to the role that captured both her charm and depth. Her on-screen chemistry with Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba was captivating, anchoring the story in the complex friendship that has always been the heart of Wicked. Erivo’s powerful performance was emotionally resonant, making Elphaba’s journey from misunderstood outsider to the Wicked Witch of the West deeply compelling.
If you walked into Wicked unaware it was a musical, you might have been caught off guard, but for those prepared, the sweeping musical numbers were a highlight.
Stephen Schwartz’s iconic score, paired with Jon M. Chu’s vibrant direction, elevated the story, and the audience was fully immersed—breaking into applause during the final act as the credits rolled.
Even for non-avid fans of the stage production or Gregory Maguire’s novel, Wicked offered an engaging exploration of the backstory of the Wicked Witch. It revealed the emotional depth and humanity behind Elphaba’s character, leaving viewers reflecting on how society often misunderstands and mislabels those who are different.
With its star-studded cast, dazzling visuals, and heart-wrenching performances, Wicked delivers on its promise as a generation-defining cinematic event. However, the bittersweet cliffhanger ending left fans longing for the second installment, set to release in a year.
Verdict: A must-watch for fans of musicals, fantasy, or just great storytelling. Ariana Grande shines, Cynthia Erivo stuns, and Wicked leaves you spellbound—and eagerly counting the days until Part Two.
Wicked – in cinemas now
Link to Universal Pictures HERE
TV Central Movie Reviews HERE
MOVIE REVIEW | Wicked
Rating
Aaron: 8 / 10 “a magical experience reminiscent of the Harry Potter days”
Zak: 9 / 10 “makes you appreciate the uniqueness we all have which should be celebrated rather than divide us”
@universalpicsau
Cinema Experience:
Hoyts Karrinyup delivered an impeccable cinematic experience for the highly anticipated screening of Wicked. The sound quality was pitch-perfect, and the comfortable recliner chairs elevated the viewing to pure luxury. From the moment you stepped in, it was clear this was a special event, with moviegoers dressed in pink and green, channeling the film’s enchanting Glinda and Elphaba vibes.
Adding to the charm, reviewers were treated to strawberry chocolate-covered treats, along with complimentary drinks and popcorn—a delightful touch that made the evening feel even more exclusive.
However, the theatre also introduced an unusual measure: all mobile phones were sealed in plastic security bags to prevent piracy during the screening. While this precaution felt a bit excessive, it didn’t overshadow the overall magic of the night.
Hoyts Karrinyup truly delivered a world-class cinematic experience, making it the perfect venue for a film as enchanting as Wicked.
