Having recently seen Wicked as a musical theatre event, it’s great to say that the movie version is even more spectacular. It’s old-school-style cinema at its best. With lavish sets and fabulous costume and makeup design, it looks amazing. Add a cast that features singers that can act as opposed to actors that can sing and it’s a feast for the ears as well.
Most will be familiar with the tie-in with The Wizard Of Oz as it’s set in the Land of Oz before events that take place in the original movie. It tells the life and death story (in two parts) of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, played by Tony Award-winning singer/actor/songwriter Cynthia Erivo. Pop princess Ariana Grande plays her frienemie Glinda in a role that provides most of the film’s comic moments.
Being loosely based on the 1995 novel of the same name by Gregory Maguire, the work is a welcome return to the massive productions of yesteryear albeit one mixed with modern-day sensibilities in regards to inclusivity and more natural acting styles. The filmmakers also use modern technology to great effect with some rather scary scenes featuring CGI characters.
While it should be a delight to all members of the family, the very youngest might be a bit frightened by some of the more intense moments, especially if they see monkeys as just playful and happy creatures. Also see it early if you can as the Uber fans will flock to those screenings and their energy and approach to fancy dress is a lot of fun to be around.
Rob Hudson
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