For over 20 years, fans have eagerly awaited the big-screen adaptation of Wicked, one of Broadway’s most beloved shows. That wait is finally over, and it was well worth it. With phenomenal lead performances and a deep respect for its source material, Wicked: Part I delivers a cinematic musical experience that’s nothing short of magical.

Based on the first act of the 2003 Tony-winning musical—adapted from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel—Wicked: Part I explores the origin stories of Elphaba, later known as The Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda the Good Witch, both iconic characters from The Wizard of Oz. The film takes viewers back to their school days, years before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz. Elphaba, with her signature green skin, is immediately ostracized by her peers, including the popular and beautiful Glinda. What begins as a rivalry transforms into a journey of friendship, self-discovery, and power as both characters step into their destinies.

In its dazzling pink-and-green screen debut, Wicked: Part I reaches gravity-defying heights, standing out as one of the best musical adaptations in years. Here are five reasons why this film deserves praise:

1. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande

Bringing iconic characters like Elphaba and Glinda to life requires equally iconic performances, and Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver in spades. Erivo captures the emotional core of Elphaba, blending confidence and vulnerability as her character embraces her identity and power. Meanwhile, Grande’s performance is a revelation. Channeling the charm of Kristin Chenoweth (Broadway’s original Glinda), she wows with her powerful vocals and impeccable comedic timing, proving she was born for this role.

2. Magical Musical Numbers

A musical’s success hinges on its musical numbers, and Wicked: Part I delivers on every front. Under the wonderful direction of Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), the musical numbers are visually stunning and emotionally resonant. “What Is This Feeling?,” “Dancing Through Life,” and “Popular” stand out for their energetic choreography and dynamic staging. The film’s showstopper, “Defying Gravity,” is a breathtaking sequence that will leave audiences spellbound.

3. Stunning Costume and Production Design

One of The Wizard of Oz’s enduring legacies is its vibrant visual style, and Wicked: Part I carries that torch with pride. While the lighting choices may fall short at times, the costumes and set designs more than compensate. From the grandiose school halls to the enchanting landscapes of Oz, every detail is meticulously crafted. The costumes, in particular, are a visual feast, capturing the essence of each character with elegance and flair.

4. Faithful Adaptation of the Source Material

The decision to split the film into two parts, with Part I running for 2 hours and 40 minutes, raised some eyebrows. However, this extended runtime allows the film to stay remarkably faithful to Act 1 of the stage musical, even giving moments more time to breathe. Director Jon M. Chu’s dedication to preserving the heart of the story is evident, offering fans a rich and immersive experience. A standout moment pays tribute to the Broadway production, providing a delightful nod to its theatrical roots.

5. A Timely and Powerful Message

At its core, Wicked is more than a tale of magic and rivalry; it’s a poignant story about bullying, discrimination, and the importance of embracing differences. Elphaba’s journey, marked by her rejection for being different, carries a powerful message about acceptance and standing against prejudice. In today’s world, this theme of embracing those different from us feels more relevant and impactful than ever.

Wicked: Part I defies expectations and emerges as a triumphant adaptation. While it may not win over those who dislike musicals, it offers a rewarding experience for fans of the genre and the original stage production. Despite its ambitious runtime, split narrative, and high expectations, the film succeeds in delivering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant musical journey that will leave audiences smiling.

WIcked: Part I is now in theaters. Wicked: Part 2 flies into theaters in November 2025, where even more reasons to love Wicked will definitely be explored!

Photos courtesy of Universal Pictures