The highly anticipated movie adaption of the Broadway musical “Wicked” is almost here and fans are stirring with excitement. With part one releasing on Nov. 22 and part two releasing on Nov 21, 2025, this movie is a holiday season must-see for many people. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the film promises to bring the magical world of Oz to life in a whole new way.
For those unfamiliar with the musical, “Wicked” tells the story of life before “The Wizard of Oz.” It follows the life of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a girl with green skin, who later becomes the Wicked Witch of the West as she begins on her journey attending Shiz University. At the University she meets Galinda the Good Witch (Ariana Grande), and navigates the world of Oz. Throughout the story they both learn valuable lessons of friendship and self-discovery along the way captivating audiences of all ages.
The movie trailers for “Wicked” have generated buzz among fans, with new previews coming out often. The first look was during Super Bowl LVIII, followed by a full trailer in September. Since then, the various “Wicked” social media accounts have released different previews and short videos that leave fans wanting more. Senior Sylvie Olsson described her expectations for the movie.
“They’re not super high because I think the stage musical is very good and so I don’t really see how the movie could live up to the musical on the stage,” Olsson said. “I still think it has potential to be great.”
While admirers of the original Broadway musical are sure to be first in line to see the movie, some speculate that the movie might not capture the magical essence of the show with the year long wait between the two movies. Some followers of the musical have expressed their worries about the reputation of musical movies, with mixed reviews on some such as “Mean Girls” and “Dear Evan Hansen.” Sophomore Cece Vanness comments on her feelings towards movie adaptations of musicals.
“I think it’s hit or miss. I’m not personally the biggest fan of them. I’m excited for ‘Wicked’ because I think they’re approaching it in a different way,” Vanness said. “My expectations are low but I think there will be good things and I think there will definitely be things that are messed up.”
Controversy has even sparked from the comparison of the movie and the musical, with fans remaking the Broadway poster with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s faces. On Instagram, Erivo took offense to the poster which hid her eyes.
“I am a real life human being, who chose to look right down the barrel of the camera to you, the viewer…Our poster is an homage not an imitation, to edit my face and hide my eyes is to erase me. And that is just deeply hurtful,” Erivo said.
Fans felt conflicted with some expressing empathy towards her and some feeling that she overreacted. Junior Chloe Klinger reflected on her feelings towards the controversy when she heard about it.
“I think it’s ridiculous and I don’t think it dehumanizes another person when they copy a poster that was originally set by the Broadway play,” Klinger said. “[They are] just trying to make it look closer to the play because that’s what it’s based off.”
Even with concerns about the poster and the reluctance of the movie splitting into two parts, it’s clear that Chu and the original creative team are dedicated to staying true to the spirit of the musical. With its epic effects and unforgettable characters, this movie is sure to be a must-see opportunity for old and new fans to experience the whimsey of Oz through a screen. Grab your popcorn and candy, sing along, and get ready to be dazzled by the magic of “Wicked.”
