Kitty Taylor
Jon M. Chu’s film adaptation of the highly acclaimed musical Wicked has been taking the internet by storm, and for good reason! The film is the first of two parts and covers the first act of the musical. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande star as the polar opposites Elphaba Thropp and Galinda Upland, who cross paths at the magical ‘Shiz University.’ Whilst trying to navigate their ‘unadulterated loathing’ for one another, the two are forced into greater conflict as Elphaba learns of a plan to strip the animals of Oz of their civil rights. She is determined to take a stand against this, and in amongst her attempts to recruit her fellow students such as Galinda and Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero Tigelaar to her protest, she realises that in order to make significant change she must meet the great Wizard of Oz in Emerald city so that he can make her wish come true.
It truly was a beautiful display of sisterhood.
As a lifelong film buff and self-proclaimed theatre kid, I am sure you can imagine that watching the two combined on the big screen was an absolute delight for me! Whilst every song was catchy, and every dance sequence was carefully curated, it was the performances from our two leading ladies that captured my heart. It was clear that both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande put their everything into bringing these two characters to life and their on-screen chemistry was so beautiful and raw, with their love for each other off screen weaving its way into the world of Oz. It truly was a beautiful display of sisterhood.
Grande charms the audience with her perfect comedic timing in ‘Popular’
Furthermore, their dedication to complete authenticity in the filmmaking process does not go unnoticed. Both actresses sang live whilst filming their scenes. Notably, Erivo sang the challenging ‘Defying Gravity’ live while performing intricate stunts, a feat that highlights her immense talent. Along with this, Grande charms the audience with her perfect comedic timing in ‘Popular’ and Jonathon Bailey’s ‘Dancing through Life’ will be going round my head for the foreseeable future, and I apologise to my housemates who will have to put up with my own renditions.
Chu’s direction seamlessly translates Wicked’s themes of love, solidarity, and courage from stage to screen. The notion of what can be achieved when people come together is consistent throughout the adaptation. Now more than ever, women and girls especially need stories of hope underscored by powerful femininity.
I have no doubt that Wicked will enchant new and old fans alike.
With its beautiful representations of female friendship, unity, courage, and strength all woven together in one dazzling musical, I have no doubt that Wicked will enchant new and old fans alike. It truly has earned its place at the top of the box office, and I urge you to go and experience this whimsical and unforgettable cinematic journey yourselves.
Kitty Taylor
Featured image courtesy of Alex Watkin. Permission to use granted to Impact. No changes were made to this image.
In-article images courtesy of @wickedmovie via Instagram. No changes were made to these images.
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