Wicked (2024) – A Dazzling Return to Oz: A Complete Review & Analysis

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(Warning: Spoilers in video.)

Director Jon M. Chu’s Wicked (2024) embraces the beloved Broadway sensation and expands it into two parts, offering an immersive dive into the politics, friendships, and prejudices swirling around the Land of Oz.

Below, you’ll find a spoiler-free overview of the film, followed by a spoiler-filled deep dive. If you haven’t seen Wicked yet, you may want to steer clear of the spoiler section—but don’t forget to bookmark this page and come back later!

A Magic-Filled Journey Worth Splitting in Two

Unlike the stage musical—which tells the complete story in one go—this film wisely concludes with Defying Gravity, ending on a hopeful, yet suspenseful note. Think of it like Avengers: Infinity War leading into Endgame: it leaves you wanting more, but it also feels right. Jamming Defying Gravity into the middle of a single movie would have been silly and a disservice to the story’s emotional arc.

A Return to Practical Effects

2024 has been a masterclass in the comeback of practical effects, and Wicked is no exception. From sweeping shots of the Emerald City to the intricate set pieces for the Oz Dust Ballroom, the production design dazzles. While some modern color grading can feel jarring—especially with a few overly backlit scenes—the overall look remains visually striking, punctuated by whimsical green and pink light flickers that echo the musical’s iconic color palette.

Themes: More Relevant Than Ever

Part of Wicked’s enduring appeal is its political message—the story addresses racism, prejudice, and the treatment of marginalized groups (evident in the subplot involving Animal cruelty). Eighty-plus years after The Wizard of Oz (1939), the conversations about injustice continue to resonate, proving the timelessness of Oz’s underlying social commentary.

Fleshing Out the Narrative

If you’ve only seen the stage show (and never read Gregory Maguire’s novel), you’ll appreciate how this two-part adaptation adds substantial context. Moments between musical numbers are used to explore the histories of Elphaba, Galinda, and the Wizard, making their journeys feel richer and more resonant.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Shine

• Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba): With a voice that soars and a fierce commitment to Elphaba’s emotional journey, Erivo brings newfound depth to the “Wicked Witch.” She fought for authentic choreographic choices, ensuring Elphaba’s dances were storytelling moments, not just filler.

• Ariana Grande (Galinda): Fans have praised her comedic timing, but her nuanced approach to privilege, compassion, and self-awareness is what truly stands out. Her opening scene in “No One Mourns the Wicked” shows Galinda grappling with her place in Oz—something more layered than mere bubbly charm.

Final Verdict

If you love the stage version or are simply a fan of musicals, Wicked (2024) is a must-see. It captures the essence of the original while offering a grander scope that justifies the two-part structure. However, if you’re looking for a complete resolution, you’ll have to wait for Part Two—consider that fair warning.

Haven’t seen it yet? Stop reading now to avoid spoilers. Bookmark this page, enjoy the film, and come back for the spoiler-filled analysis!

How Splitting the Film at Defying Gravity Elevates the Story

Ending with Defying Gravity is a master stroke. The film builds up Elphaba’s internal conflict—her disillusionment with authority, her fight against injustice—and crescendos with her iconic departure. Cutting off the story here leaves the audience with a mix of hope, excitement, and tension about the Wizard’s next move and Galinda’s shifting loyalty.

Building on the Stage Musical & the Novel

Fans of Maguire’s book will rejoice at the added nuances—like a deeper look at the Wizard’s manipulative rise to power and the complexities of Shiz University’s social hierarchy. The film dedicates crucial screen time to smaller narrative threads that bring Oz’s political undercurrent to the forefront.

Spotlight on Its Political Commentary

From Doctor Dillamond’s heartbreaking subplot to Elphaba’s stand for the oppressed, Wicked doesn’t shy away from heavier themes. Racism underpins the story, drawing real-world parallels that feel alarmingly current.

Choreography Highlights: Oz Dust Ball

The Oz Dust Ball sequence glitters with carefully chosen dance motifs that visually narrate Elphaba’s emotional journey—especially her awkwardness and eventual self-acceptance. Erivo’s insistence that every movement serve a story purpose lends the scene an unexpectedly profound resonance.

Cinematography & Color Grading

While a few backlit scenes can be distracting, the overall visual design—anchored in the iconic greens and pinks—stays true to the musical’s vibrant spirit. The sets and practical effects shine, from Munchkinland’s pastel facades to the darker, industrial corners of the Emerald City.

Stephen Schwartz’s Unforgettable Score

One of the film’s greatest strengths is how it weaves recurring motifs throughout the narrative, culminating in moments of musical catharsis. If you loved how Barbie handled recurring musical themes in What Was I Made For, you’ll be giddy over the layered references to “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” and more.

Ariana Grande’s Comedic Timing & Nuance

Though Galinda begins as a privileged socialite, Grande captures the character’s gradual awakening. Her comedic instincts shine in lighter moments, but she also brings genuine gravitas to scenes where Galinda confronts her complicity in Oz’s systemic oppression.

By ending on such a powerful note, Wicked (2024) sets the stage for a sequel that promises even bigger emotional payoffs—like the resolution of Elphaba and Galinda’s friendship, the fate of the Wizard, and the unraveling of Oz’s many secrets. It’s a masterful tease that leaves us craving the next installment.

Final Verdict: A Spellbinding Start That Leaves You Eager for Part Two

Jon M. Chu’s adaptation manages the near-impossible feat of staying faithful to its Broadway origins while expanding the narrative to suit a cinematic format. With soaring performances, breathtaking visuals, and a politically poignant storyline, Wicked (2024) casts a spell you won’t soon forget.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Pros: Seamless expansion of the story, powerful musical motifs, and nuanced performances—especially from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.

Cons: The cliffhanger might feel abrupt to viewers expecting a complete arc, and a few scenes suffer from heavy backlighting.

Join the Conversation: Share Your Thoughts Below!

What moment left you breathless? How do you feel about the decision to split the film in two? Drop a comment below and let’s compare notes on this magical, politically charged journey back to Oz!