‘Wicked’ review: The magic of a musical work comes to cinema in style.

Released in 2003, Wicked It is one of the most beloved and longest-running musicals in Broadway history. So the task of its film adaptation was precisely to achieve the perfect balance between an exciting plot and a good spectacle. Jon M. Chu’s film achieves more than just that. Plus, it gives a new and splendid personality to this reimagining of the world The Wizard of Ozwhich is now in its third format. Which should be appreciated since the original work is one of the most beloved by the public for more than twenty years.

But Vinnie Holtzman and Dana Fox’s script turns the familiar tale of failed friendship into an epic of loyalty. Not only between friends, but also with the ideals of the kingdom of Oz. For this occasion it has been transformed into a brilliant context, rich in details that create an entire mythology. Wicked It uses the setting of Gregory Maguire’s book, from which entire sections are taken, as well as a stage play script to create a dreamscape. What’s striking about the adaptation is the director’s enormous sensitivity. show the magic in winks and charming details.

From blue skies where the curved clouds seem almost childlike, to the colorful fields and valleys of Oz. The Magic Kingdom has a visual vitality that gives it the feel of a legendary territory. It is perhaps some regret that all the details of the overall landscape of Oz seem at times a little artificial. This is despite the fact that it is obvious that most of the sets are real and can be seen when they are there. But this is not a problem that affects the tape. Or not so much as to be a hindrance to enjoying the plot.

Another visual flaw concerns the lighting. In some central episodes there are obvious difficulties in distinguishing characters. Especially Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), whose green skin sometimes seems hard to pick out. The result is a series of beautiful scenes in which there is annoying backlighting or, in The worst case scenario is a cautious use of scripts that leaves much to be desired.

Two friends from completely different worlds

Part of the charm Wicked lies in its ability to be both entertaining and emotional without falling into melodrama. Of course, the full weight of the story lies with its main characters. Like the book and play from which it is taken, the film begins by providing some context regarding the world of Oz and its witches. But also, making it clear that what will be said greatly expands a story that includes Dorothy.

Like the adapted material, the film tells the story of Elphaba and her arrival at Shiz University in the town of Gillikin in the kingdom of Oz. Although the play shows little of what is taught in the legendary place, Wicked It takes a portion of the source book to make it clear that this is a prestigious school of magic as well as advanced science. In fact, the film treats the institution as a sort of vibrant and timeless version of the iconic Hogwarts. An obligatory comparison in which Shiz loses due to his somewhat generic appearance.

Two witches destined to be inseparable

As expected, the film stands on the shoulders of its leads, and some of its best moments come from the chemistry between the lead actors. Elphaba begins as a shy, out-of-place figure. And this is not surprising. Governor Tropp’s daughter is born with an inexplicable green skin, which soon becomes a source of ridicule and loneliness. The analogy with racism is obvious, and once the film gets into its best moments, shows that he can handle such a complex subject with skill and ingenuity.

But in addition to rejection, Elphaba also has to deal with mysterious abilities that the character begins to discover almost by accident. The plot cleverly reveals that what defines a witch is not just the color of her skin, but also how she adapts to her power. The actress gives her character a rare clumsiness, as if she is not comfortable anywhere. Which sooner or later will make her a survivor in a hostile world.

Light and Shadows in the Kingdom of Oz

On the other end is Galinda Upland, the future Glinda the Good Witch, played by Ariana Grande. The heroine comes to the cinema with all her privilege and popularity, which forces the performer to give her the appearance of a queen bee with a capricious temperament. Grande has good ideas about her witch, but at times it seems that, in addition to her amazing voice, she has trouble understanding her duality. Namely: that, being frivolous and superficial, She can also communicate with Elphaba, who is much tougher and more controlled.

Overall, the singer embraces the challenge with enthusiasm, and her Galinda is a kind figure, albeit with some annoying moments. She makes a determined attempt to make friends with such a difficult person as the green-skinned witch. The director manages to convey the friendship and bond between them not only in the musical numbers they share, but also in the scenes in which Elphaba and Galinda These are two girls who support each other.

Classic characters come to the movies

One of the most interesting moments Wicked This is, without a doubt, his ability to take a fresh look at figures that have been iconic in pop culture for over thirty years. The script does a good job of providing new facets to each of them. Despite the vastness of the world and the situations it depicts, the film has time. study, at least for a moment, its most famous faces.

Something is especially noticeable about Fiyero, embodied by the star BridgertonsJonathan Bailey. This crown prince is a fantasy version of the normal cute boy at school. It’s the actor who gives it a mischievous charm that takes it away from cliché to make it funny. The actor can be seen singing superbly and with carefully thought out choreography. But he also understood that this romantic interest, who would be at the center of the love triangle, was a sensitive man. Far from the good-natured scoundrel of the original and closer to arrogant person with sensitive points is one of the best elements Wicked.

The main characters are accompanied by a luxurious supporting cast. From the Wizard of Oz and the distinguished university figure played by Jeff Goldblum, to the sweet and tragic Nessarose (Marissa Bode), Elphaba’s sister. The world of Oz is full of controversial characters looking for love or hiding important secrets. It’s unfortunate that the film doesn’t spend more time on the supporting characters, but it’s clear that this was a conscious decision. I’m waiting for the second part.

Well-built world, albeit unambitious

Wicked finds its best moments when it tries to be more than just a gorgeous visual set piece or homage to the play. In fact, respect, not reverence, for the original is obvious. Because of this, it feels like the film sometimes struggles to dare to innovate or give an independent take on a well-known story. While aiming to feature iconic scenes, at times the film’s tone feels more like a classic pop culture story than a film with its own issues. Of course, his attention to detail and respect for the musical is appreciated, but there is always the feeling that the film could have been so much more. Despite this, and despite its limitations, The film delivers top-notch entertainment and a visually arresting spectacle.

As expected, the biggest plus is the music section. Ariana Grande has her best moments when she sings, and while she lacks the precision of theatrical songs, her pop and cinematic version is polished and sensitive. Classic songs such as Popular And Defying gravityhave an updated rhythm, with well planned and choreographed musical numbers. Memorable Dancing through life And One short day They also have a chance to make it big on the big screen.

To complete it, Wicked It feels like an adventure that barely reaches its brightest point and leaves the best for last. However, it doesn’t feel unfinished, but rather like a story that will continue more spectacularly and, if you like, in darker tones. Elphaba still has a story to tell, and Oz still has a story to tell. Something clear in the emotional ending and the most moving facet of a charming work.