Universal Pictures has recently released a behind-the-scenes featurette for Wicked, the highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical set in the world of The Wizard of Oz. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, Wicked explores the complex relationships between the witches of Oz before Dorothy’s arrival.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film has been divided into two parts to maximise its narrative depth. Part 1 will release on 27 November 2024, while the second part is slated for release on 26 November 2025.
The new featurette offers a glimpse into the emotional journey of the film’s stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who portray Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. Both actresses shared their experiences and the deep connections they feel with their characters. Grande recalled an archival interview from her youth where she expressed her dream of playing Glinda — a dream that has now come to fruition in this project. Footage from their auditions, intertwined with clips from the film, showcased their journey to these roles.
Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, has brought his unique vision to the project, which promises a visually dynamic and emotionally rich adaptation. Chu’s interaction with Grande and Erivo during the casting announcement was particularly moving, as he confirmed their roles, leading to emotional responses from both actresses. Grande, embracing her character fully, has even transformed her appearance and mannerisms to embody Glinda.
In addition to Grande and Erivo, the film features Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz, alongside a stellar cast including Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Peter Dinklage, and Ethan Slater.
Wicked delves into the unlikely but profound friendship between Elphaba, the misunderstood witch, and Glinda, who is faced with the challenges of popularity and power. Their journey at Shiz University and subsequent encounters with the Wizard lead to life-changing decisions that define their destinies as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.
The film adaptation not only celebrates the enduring appeal of the Wicked story but also aims to connect with a new generation of viewers, promising a blend of nostalgia and innovation. As the first trailer is set to drop within the next few days, fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to experience the magic of Wicked.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of meeting her idols.
