For nearly two decades, Wicked has enchanted audiences on stage, cementing itself as one of the most beloved musicals of all time. With unforgettable songs, complex characters, and a story that flips our understanding of The Wizard of Oz, Wicked has long been poised for a cinematic adaptation. Now, as the movie version nears its release, fans are getting a closer look at the magic, creativity, and emotional depth that went into bringing this extraordinary tale to the big screen.
The Emotional Heart of Wicked: Cast Interviews
The journey of adapting Wicked for film has been as emotional for the cast as it is for the story’s devoted fans. In interviews, both Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda) shared how profoundly the experience moved them.
Erivo, known for her powerhouse vocals and commanding presence, described her first time performing “Defying Gravity” as an unforgettable moment. “It’s a song about freedom, resilience, and finding your truth,” she said. “Singing it on that incredible set, with all the emotional weight of Elphaba’s story, I couldn’t help but cry.”
Grande, who has openly expressed her love for Wicked since childhood, said the role of Glinda felt like a dream come true. “Every day on set was surreal,” she admitted. “I grew up singing ‘Popular’ in my room, and now to perform it as Glinda, with all the glitter, the gowns, and the heart of the character—it’s beyond anything I imagined.”
Both actresses also highlighted the emotional toll of the story’s climactic moments. Grande revealed that filming the final scenes between Glinda and Elphaba was particularly challenging. “The friendship is so raw and real. Saying goodbye in that moment, even as a character, felt personal,” she explained. Erivo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the timeless themes of love, sacrifice, and misunderstood intentions that make Wicked resonate so deeply.
The interviews have gotten much traction because fans have been uneasy watching these two cry in every interview. Fans think something traumatic happened during filming that caused them to act this way. In almost every interview, they cry and hold hands the entire time. It almost looks like they heavily rely on each other and are each other’s support systems. One recent comment I read was “Every wicked interview feels like a therapy session”. I think this comment can explain the way people interpret the strange interactions they are having.
Some fans say that it has just simply been a dream for them to play these roles so they are just proud and feel like they are living their dream. Others think something happened on set. I think that they may just be living out their dream and that this movie and Cynthia really helped Ariana. Ariana has recently gone through a lot of trauma and I think landing this role and having Cynthia, who seems like someone great for support, has helped her heal.
Building Oz: Tulips, Magic, and Cinematic Wonders
One of the most exciting aspects of Wicked’s transition from stage to screen is the chance to expand its visual storytelling. Director Jon M. Chu, celebrated for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, has brought his signature flair to Oz, creating a world that is vibrant, immersive, and breathtakingly detailed.
Among the most striking additions to the film is the tulip fields, a new visual element that underscores the themes of transformation and growth central to Elphaba’s journey. Production designer Nathan Crowley shared that the tulips weren’t just CGI—they were carefully planted and cultivated to create a real, tangible setting. “We wanted the audience to feel the life and vibrancy of Oz,” he explained. “The tulip fields symbolize Elphaba’s connection to nature and the beauty that can emerge from adversity.”
Early glimpses of the film have also revealed the reimagined Shiz University, where Elphaba and Glinda’s friendship begins. The set design marries whimsical details with grandeur, capturing the magical and academic atmosphere of this pivotal location. Costume designer Paul Tazewell brought the world of Shiz to life with colorful, intricate designs that reflect each character’s personality. “Shiz is where their identities start to take shape,” Tazewell noted. “Every piece of fabric, every accessory, was chosen to tell a story.”
The Emerald City, a centerpiece of the film’s visual narrative, has been transformed into a glittering metropolis with an undercurrent of darkness. Chu wanted the city to reflect both the allure and corruption of power, mirroring the broader themes of the story. Combining practical sets with cutting-edge visual effects, the Emerald City feels both fantastical and eerily relatable.
Since a lot of it is real and not just CGI, I wonder if one day the set will be something that the audience will be able to visit. This would be a cool way to really experience “Wicked” in person and could make it magical, almost like Disney World. I think this movie really will go down in history and this happening could actually happen. It would be cool to see the tulip fields and feel like you are actually in the movie!
Honoring the Music: Iconic Songs, New Perspectives
No adaptation of Wicked would be complete without its unforgettable score by Stephen Schwartz. From Elphaba’s soaring anthem “Defying Gravity” to the playful charm of “Popular,” the songs are as much a part of the story as the characters themselves. Fans can rest assured that the film stays true to the musical’s heart, while also offering fresh interpretations of the songs.
Cynthia Erivo has teased that “Defying Gravity” will be a visually and emotionally groundbreaking moment. “It’s not just a song; it’s an awakening,” she said. “On stage, it’s powerful, but on film, we’ve been able to explore the physicality of flight and the expansiveness of Elphaba’s defiance. It’s a moment that will take your breath away.”
Grande, on the other hand, brings her signature charisma to “Popular,” giving the number a playful yet heartfelt energy. “Glinda is more than just bubbly and charming,” Grande explained. “She has layers, and this song is her way of reaching out and trying to connect, even if it’s in her own quirky way.”
Other standout moments include “For Good,” the emotional duet between Elphaba and Glinda that captures the essence of their relationship. The film’s version, according to Chu, will highlight the intimacy and complexity of the scene. “We wanted the audience to feel like they were right there with them, experiencing every tear, every word,” he said.
Lastly, while filming, the singing was live. So while Cynthia is flying in the air in one scene, she is actually singing it live and it still sounds great! The movie really captured Cynthia and Ariana’s talent because I knw I couldn’t sing that good flying in the air!
The Legacy of Wicked
At its core, Wicked is a story about challenging perceptions and embracing the complexities of human nature. It dares us to question the labels of “good” and “evil” and to see the humanity in those we might otherwise judge. This is why Wicked has remained so relevant and beloved—it speaks to our deepest fears, hopes, and desires.
The film adaptation comes at a time when these themes feel more urgent than ever. In a world that often feels divided, Wicked reminds us of the power of empathy and the importance of understanding. As fans eagerly await the movie’s release, the story’s message of resilience and friendship continues to resonate.
What to Expect When You See Wicked on the Big Screen
The movie promises to be a feast for the senses, blending the magic of the original stage production with the limitless possibilities of cinema. Expect breathtaking visuals, heart-stirring performances, and a deeper dive into the world of Oz than ever before. From the sweeping tulip fields to the glittering halls of the Emerald City, every frame of the film has been crafted with love and attention to detail.
For those who have cherished Wicked on stage, the film offers a chance to revisit a familiar story in a new way. For newcomers, it’s an invitation to step into a world of wonder and discover the truths that lie beneath the surface.
As Glinda and Elphaba’s journey unfolds, the audience will be reminded that even the most unlikely friendships can change us for good—and that the courage to defy gravity lies within us all.
The magic of Wicked is timeless, and with this stunning cinematic adaptation, its spell will only grow stronger. So get ready to return to Oz and experience the story that’s defied expectations, captured hearts, and inspired generations. Wicked is coming, and it’s everything we’ve dreamed of and more.
Our last Blog Post
Sadly, this will be our last blog post of the semester. Kennedy and I have had such a great time writing and keeping you updated on all things pop culture every week. From big celebrity moments to the latest trends, it’s been fun sharing our takes and hearing yours. While we’re wrapping up for now, we hope you’ve enjoyed following along as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it all together. Thanks for reading!
