The magic of Oz officially graced Super Bowl Sunday with its presence, as Universal Pictures unveiled the captivating first trailer for its highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the beloved musical, Wicked.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the two-part film saga, based on the smash-hit musical, promises a vibrant journey through the fantastical land of Oz and the untold stories of its iconic witches.
The official Wicked trailer transports audiences to a visually stunning live-action recreation of the Emerald City, brimming with vibrant colors and intricate costumes. Lush landscapes and magical creatures hint at the immersive cinematic experience Chu has crafted, staying true to the spirit of the original stage production.
At the heart of the story lies the complex relationship between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda (Ariana Grande), destined to become Glinda the Good Witch. The trailer offers viewers a glimpse into their initial encounter, highlighting their contrasting personalities and hinting at the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
Erivo and Grande bring their undeniable musical talent and star power to their respective roles as they get a chance to showcase their powerful vocals and dramatic range. The trailer also features glimpses of the impressive supporting cast, including Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, and the ever-charismatic Jeff Goldblum as the enigmatic Wizard of Oz.
A pivotal moment in the trailer features Erivo belting out the iconic song Defying Gravity, a perfect opportunity for her to show off her soaring vocals and Elphaba’s daring leap that’s a symbol of the character’s defiance and resilience. This brief snippet proves the film remains committed to capturing the emotional and musical essence of the Broadway production and bringing it to the big screen.
True to the depth of the story, Wicked will be released in two parts. Part One will arrive in the movie theaters on November 27, with Part Two following in late 2025. This allows for a more nuanced exploration of the characters and their journeys, delving deeper into themes of friendship, identity, and the complexities of good and evil.
With a talented cast, stunning visuals, and commitment to staying true to the source, Wicked promises to be a captivating cinematic experience for both loyal fans and newcomers to the fantastical world of Oz.
