Wicked (2024 Film): Watch Ariana Grande Sing “Popular” From the Wicked Movie
Overview:
Wicked is an upcoming musical fantasy film that will be released in two parts. The film is based on the Broadway musical Wicked, which itself is adapted from the 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire.
The movie will explore the untold backstories of two iconic characters from The Wizard of Oz: the Wicked Witch of the West (Elphaba) and Glinda the Good Witch.
Release Date:
The first part of Wicked is set to be released on November 27, 2024.
Plot:
Wicked is a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, focusing on the lives of Elphaba and Glinda before they became the famous witches in Oz. The story reveals how these two women, who were once close friends, eventually became enemies.
The musical will explore themes of friendship, identity, and the complex struggle between good and evil in the magical land of Oz.
Cast:
- Elphaba: Played by Ariana Grande, Elphaba is a misunderstood character who, due to her unique powers, becomes the feared Wicked Witch of the West.
- Glinda: Played by Cynthia Erivo, Glinda is the popular, charming, and somewhat superficial character who ultimately becomes the Good Witch.
- Other Cast Members:
- Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard
- Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero
- Marissa Bode as Nessarose
Director and Production:
The film is directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his previous works like Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights. Universal Pictures is producing the movie. Wicked will be adapted into a two-part film, with the second part expected to be released in 2025.
Musical Numbers:
Since the film is based on the hit Broadway musical, it will feature many of the famous songs from the stage production. Some of the iconic songs that will be included are:
- “Defying Gravity”
- “Popular”
- “For Good”
- “No One Mourns the Wicked”
Development and Background:
The Wicked film adaptation has been in development for several years. It was first announced in 2012, but faced multiple delays.
In 2021, it was confirmed that Jon M. Chu would direct the movie, with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo cast in the lead roles.
The film promises to combine fantasy, music, and drama, delving into the backstory of Elphaba and Glinda, and showing how they became the figures we know from The Wizard of Oz.
Expectations:
Given the immense popularity of the Broadway musical, fans are eagerly awaiting the release of Wicked. With a talented cast and a beloved story, the film is expected to be a major hit when it hits theaters, especially among musical theater fans and general audiences alike.