User reviews

I genuinely wanted to love this film and was so disappointed with it in the end. I really enjoyed the West End play and so was keen to see this version. Boy did it drag. It was about 1 hour too long. The set was lovely, the characters were ok and some of the songs were upbeat enough to engage, but overall it just wasn't captivating enough. I didn't even like most of the musical score. At times it actually made me cringe and I wished for it to end. I know most people seem to love it, but I just couldn't. I tried, but I wanted to escape by the second hour. It was just far too long and not captivating enough to keep me interested.

I don't know much about the musical, but I'm familiar with the classic Judy Garland version, The Wizard of Oz. The world-building in this film is the best since Harry Potter and delivers everything you'd want from a fantasy experience. It looks, sounds, and feels exactly as a great fantasy movie should. Ariana Grande brings her own unique personality to Glinda, blending charm with a playful, modern energy that feels fresh and exciting. Cynthia Erivo delivers a powerful and heartfelt performance as Elphaba, infusing the character with raw emotion and a profound sense of strength. Their on-screen chemistry makes every scene between them unforgettable, elevating the story's magic and emotional depth. Can't wait for part two!

With the raving reviews surrounding this movie, there was an expectation for so much more. I absolutely adore musicals and I had high hopes for this one. Throughout the progression of the film, I kept waiting for the moment when the movie became an instant classic in my books. Unfortunately, it never did. With a 2-hour and 40-minute run-time, Wicked left me feeling drained. The vocals of the leads were immaculate, the props were grand, but it still felt incomplete.

In terms of casting, Cynthia Erivo proved to be a wonderful pick for Elphaba, in both acting and singing. She also garnered much sympathy for the plight of her character and the challenges she faced due to her skin-color. Ariana Grande held her own as Glinda bringing various quirks and a unique comedy to her character, especially with her and Erivo's chemistry. Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero was surprising and fresh, though it felt as if we never received a deeper understanding of his character. Most of the supporting characters seemed more superficial, and not as easy to connect to. The motivation for the villains seemed incomplete especially when centered around the subplot regarding animals. Every set-up in the movie seemed to lend itself to a set up for another song or "you'll find out in part II."

There were moments in the film where it felt rushed, and times that seemed to be drag. Toward the final act, I loathed the idea of hearing another song. The plot seemed increasingly thin and unable to hold my attention. For a musical, most of the songs were forgettable, minus the finishing number 'Defying Gravity.' Admittedly, not all musicals need to have memorable songs if the plot is strong enough to carry it (e.g. Newsies), but the plot itself seemed just as forgettable. The run-time of the film should have produced a better understanding of the characters and a stronger plot. However, it merely presented a song-fest, with a weak plot and many choreographed dances.

Overall, it is still a watchable movie despite its few flaws and bloated run-time. But there are many others who do believe it is the best piece of cinema ever seen so maybe it's just me?

The stage play is far more enjoyable; pacing of the storyline and characters you really care about more than in this film. This movie definitely did not need to be a two-parter if the stage play can offer all the storyline and less time. I hope that there is a better cut of this film released when the second half comes out with the whole storyline, not exceeding 2 1/2 hours. These characters in this film seem so superficial. I'm not sure how you can compare this to the stage play. I feel that everything feels so fake in this movie compared to the stage play there could've been better use of all this extended time with more storyline..

Got to see a few hours ago in IMAX which was magnificent even my sister was there and I'm pretty she loved it! Wicked should be up for awards especially for set design, acting and directing are all great aspects. I'm generally not a fan of musicals but glad I saw this wild ride a couple days before the wide release.

Cynthia and Ariana Grande were exceptional throughout they both deserve praise for their performances/exciting vibes! I had a long day I was little achy that was my complication otherwise this was delightful charming gem that will most likely be appreciated by most audiences as should be.

Just walked out of Wicked and all I can say is wow. I bought tickets for my wife and I because she is a huge theater fan. I do enjoy the theater myself but not overly enthusiastic. I didn't know much about Wicked except the general plot and man I've been missing out. The film is nothing short of fantastic. Cynthia Erivo is a marvel but Ariana Grande truly steals the show. Every scene she is in I couldn't help but laugh. There is no doubt in my mind that she'll be nominated for an Oscar and hopefully brings it home. The last scene/song by Erivo is breathtaking and I cannot stop thinking about it. Even though it's a bit long at two and a half hours it certainly flies through it and every frame is magnificent. I cannot wait to watch it again.

Okay, my bona fides first. Saw a touring production of this show and really enjoyed it. Have listened to the Original Cast cd many a time. So was primed to enjoy this movie. But OMG was it slow. Which illustrates, to me anyway, that it did not to be in two parts. What's more, that putting it into two parts was a cynical cash grab.

In addition, it was frenetic. Stomping-style choreography in nearly every number, and quick cut edits that ruined songs like Popular and Dancing through Life.

Plus, the Emerald City didn't look much different from Munchkinland.

The two singers were fine, except I found it hard to understand Ariana G. When she sang high.

I have a feeling the rating will go lower as more people see this.

If you are easily wooed by good set design, CGI and 2-3 good scenes then you'll love it. If you would like any meaningful storyline look elsewhere.

Emotional connections between characters were shallow and actual plot points were treated almost as an inconvenience. Whilst the singing was of great quality, it lacked the emotive wider cast belt-outs I expect from a powerful musical. It felt to me that everyone was trying so hard to be their own oscar-winning performance they forgot to act WITH eachother.

The dance scene between Elphaba and Galinda tries hard to be a statement piece but despite Cynthia's great individual performance the chemistry between them falls short yet again.

I was led to believe this film would be full of emotion and rip-roaring acting but I'm left as disconnected as the plotlines.

I can't quite wrap my head around all the positive comments for this film, they go so far that it is almost suspicious.

Anyway, me and my partner looked at each other after 1 hour and nodded to each other that it was time to leave. The storyline was going nowhere and it was frankly dull. I was really disappointed after reading some of the reviews for it, I'm not sure what I was expecting, but it wasn't that. It was so predictable that I could sit there and mouth the next line before they even said it, the cinematography was pretty average too, for me there wasn't much to like about it. Perhaps kids would enjoy it more? Sorry but I won't be watching P2.

I was expecting a clown show, what with the marketing and fuss, and was surprised to have found the movie good? The sets are elaborate and the movie was more colorful than I was expecting based off the trailers. The cast was strong and for the most part the singing was excellent. Cynthia Erivo was stand out for me. What a voice! Some strange dance moves here and there. What most intrigued me was the plot. I won't go into spoilers but it made me very interested to know how it comes together in the end. I'll have to watch the final film to determine if this is truly a masterpiece. But I'll say this - I'll be watching.

In an era where musicals are deemed unsafe and a guarantee box office poison, Wicked defies gravity and transcends expectations. Not only are the songs infectious and emotionally resonate, but the acting from the cast is equal to the strengths of the music. The movie is visually striking, and though it's a lengthy runtime, the journey the viewer goes on is well worth the trip, leaving one enthralled when the "To Be Continued" pops up on screen.

What is also unheard of for a movie musical is being a two parter. I wouldn't be surprised if Wicked: Part 1 sweeps this year's awards, and Part 2 does another sweep, something that is unprecedented in the history of movies.

The acting's great, the sets and choreography are spectacular, vibrant and full of colour and there are some great songs (in between them belting out notes for no reason), but it's hard to recommend when so much of it is left unfinished. The light plot fells drawn out, mainly focusing on the relationship between the two leads, with other characters barely used and other plot points never really explained. There's some good humour and attempts at defying traditional expectations but I never felt in awe or amazed at the magical world of Oz and the ending, whilst dramatic, felt rushed.

Overall = 6/10.

2 hours and 40 minutes and this is only Part 1?! Nowhere except for in the cinema did I see the film advertised as PART 1-not in the advertising, not in the cinema listing, and not on the marquee. I don't think I would have gone knowing there were more parts coming. And since Wicked was just as long as a musical and had a beginning, middle, and an end in that same amount of time, it means that they should tell the entire story in about 9 hours. Yes the creativity of the sets and the CGI of animals were amazing, and the leads were pretty good especially since they had big shoes to fill. Cynthia & Ariana held their own, and Ariana may have a second career as she was awesome on SNL as an actor. Jonathan Bailey was a standout for sure, and can obviously sing and dance and came across as completely swoon worthy. Bowen Yang gave the film some camp and humour. But I guess we have a couple of more films to give a solid rating. Is it a 1/10?-no, that's too harsh, maybe not your cup of tea or too long. Is it a 10/10?!-no you might be fanning out on Wicked The Musical, Ariana, or Cynthia a little too much and perhaps you need a restraining order. But somewhere in the middle seems appropriate, until we see the subsequent parts.

WOW!!! This film exceeded my expectations. Can we talk about how BLOWN AWAY I was by both Ariana and Cynthia's performances, and honestly the entire cast!

Ariana wasn't kidding when she said she put her entire heart and soul into preparing for the role of Glinda. This is a dream come true for her, and I couldn't think of anyone else for this role.

Cynthia's belting was out of this world. She stepped into the role of Elphaba with ease.

The singing was LIVE mind you.... including the stunts.

I will be watching a million times in theaters (and hopefully soon on digital) in anticipation for Part 2!

There are a few things about this film that just really didn't work for me, but there is also lots to enjoy. On balance it makes for a perfectly watchable and entertaining enough experience, but it could have and should have been so much better.

To start with the positives, Ariana Grande is absolutely magnificent as Glinda. I was sceptical about her as a leading actress but she really smashes it out of the park. Vocally she is spot on. Her mannerisms and dialogue delivery are perfect. She truly eclipses every other cast member and just is Glinda in every way.

Aesthetically in terms of costuming and set design, again I think this film nails it. The commitment to practical sets and a reduction in green screen technology is noticeable and it does create a more engaging look to the film.

Finally the production value of the music numbers is all really solid. Apart from dragging out Defying Gravity for a bit too long, I think the songs are all brilliantly performed and well choreographed.

Now for my gripes...

The whole thing is just far, far too long. Two hours and forty minutes? There is simply no need. Not only this but somehow, despite all this extra breathing room, the film doesn't carry as much emotion in its story as the theatre production. I felt like the plot points around the animals and also of Elphaba wanting to meet the wizard, just didn't carry as much weight as they should. There was just too much time between the emotional beats of the story due to the added run time, which lessened their impact.

I can't argue that she has a great voice (and she nails Defying Gravity), but I just wasn't convinced by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. Perhaps this is on the director's shoulders, but she was just played a little too reserved and shy and was incredibly hard to connect to. I know this is part of the character of Elphaba, but even still the whole performance was just too muted. It doesn't help that she was performing across from a great Glinda.

Another annoyance is the colour palette of the film which is disappointingly dull. Given the technicolor wonder of The Wizard of Oz, I was hoping this film would pop a little more on the screen. Glinda's pink dresses, Elphaba's green skin, even the Emerald City itself... they just all felt a bit dull.

Still, none of these gripes are terminal. If you enjoyed the stage show of Wicked you will love this film. If you love musicals you will enjoy this film. Even if you are just a casual movie goer you will find plenty to enjoy here. I do just think given the source material there was maybe a better attempt to be had here.

First off... context. I am a hetero male, married to a beautiful wife, have three awesome kids and our whole family is in love with the theater... we go see Peter Pan in Dallas later this month. I say all that to say this... Wicked is easily in my top 5 musicals on Broadway, also holding number 1 of my all time favorite moments in theater (Defying Gravity at the end of Act 1). It would've taken perfection for this movie to attain the level of respect for the movie version.... AND IT WAS PERFECTION! Maybe the greatest movie of all time, definitely the best musical movie of all time.

Let's start with cinematography... Holy Cow! Absolutely stunnin. Colors, camera work, zooms, pans, fades... it doesn't get much better. Even the CGI wasn't distracting.

Story: this movie tells the story of Wicked much better and fluid than the play does... properly so, they have more ways to do it. But it follows the book a little more as well.

Casting: I don't think I've ever seen a movie, short of The Patriot, that every person was perfectly cast... until this one... and not only perfectly cast but embodied the role better than anyone could have. I felt every emotion Elfie was going through, so much that at the end of the movie, I had to catch my breath. Ariana Grande is the funniest Glinda, the Gah is silent, that could have been. She was perfect! Goldblum, Yeoh, Bailey, Slater, Bode played their roles excellently. Even the nod to Keala Settle and Erivo back together since Greatest Showman, nicely done.

Music: Wow, just wow! Bringing back Schwartz, the original composer with a full theatrical orchestra to pull it off was breath taking multiple times within the movie.

I can't wait for Act 2 next November and this will be purchased the first day it's for digital. Go see it... my words don't do it justice.

I am by no means against musicals, but this was Willy Wonka.on LSD. The sets were contrived. The direction was amateurish. Unnerving choreography. I don't know how the Broadway version played out, but the plot was plodding, and I dread even the thought of part 2. I loved both versions of West Side Story. I loved Little Shop of Horrors and Chicago, but this was just a mess. First, we are supposed to believe that all of this is set in a first-year university where nearly everyone is in their thirties. Of course, we must also have the flamboyant, speech-affected gay man and the overbearing calorically-challenged shrew. The Wizard of Oz was charming. Everyone could relate to the characters. The songs were ALL great. Here, only Popular and Defying Gravity are great but ruined by bad direction. Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum are annoying. And Ariana Granda, whose singing voice and impressions are phenomenal, but her acting is flat and expressionless. Cynthia Erivo's performance was top-rate despite the high school-level screenplay and amateurish direction. I will say, though, that the last five minutes were excellent. But to have to sit through two and a half hours of drivel for five minutes isn't worth it. L. Frank Baum must be turning in his emerald grave.

Dreadful acting, trite story, characters very predictable. We decided to leave the cinema after 40 minutes as neither of us could bear to watch anymore. The only redeeming features were the special effects of the school, but even these were very similar to Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings films. My friend and I were very disappointed but drowned our sorrows afterwards so not a complete waste of an evening. Overall - loud, brash, dance sequences far too long and why oh why was there a "camp" character? A nod to being politically correct? Such a shame to spoil a wonderful fairy story. Certainly won't be bothering to watch part 2.

First of all, how the director missed the most colourful film of the century?? World of Oz is supposed to be full of florescent colours, brightest shades of everything etc. What a waste or cheap work?

I loved Ariana Grande's character, on the other hand someone should zoom out the camera. It was hard to watch those crowded dance scenes in the emerald city. There are some major issues with the timeline of the story and cuts made by the director. We are wasting a giant part of the story yet this is only the FIRST chapter. Felt like we were watching 4th episode or something. I hope the second part will be better.