December 2024 saw the release of one of Hollywood’s most anticipated musicals of the year, The Wizard of the Emerald City. Industry insiders, including Variety, have speculated that the film could be a strong Oscar contender—a claim that might seem far-fetched at first, but given recent Academy surprises, anything is possible. Film critic Denis Korsakov delves into the strengths and weaknesses of this latest adaptation.
Storyline Overview
Set in the magical Land of Oz, two young women from vastly different backgrounds find their lives intertwined. Galinda, a charming and fashionable blonde, exudes confidence but lacks real magical talent. Meanwhile, Elphaba, a socially awkward outsider with emerald-green skin, possesses extraordinary magical abilities. Despite their initial animosity, fate brings them together at Shiz University, where their friendship takes unexpected turns. As their bond deepens, their paths diverge, setting the stage for a dramatic and emotional journey.
Readers familiar with L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz may recognize these characters as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. However, for those acquainted with Alexander Volkov’s The Wizard of the Emerald City, they will be more familiar as Bastinda and Stella.
The Inspiration Behind the Film
This film is adapted from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which reimagines the traditional villain as a misunderstood figure. The novel was later transformed into a Broadway musical in 2003. While initially met with lukewarm critical reception, Wicked became a global phenomenon, grossing over a billion dollars and maintaining a strong following for more than two decades.
The musical’s massive success likely paved the way for Disney’s Maleficent, which similarly aimed to humanize an infamous sorceress. Hollywood’s growing trend of reinterpreting classic villains as misunderstood figures is evident once again in this latest adaptation.
The Long Road to the Big Screen
Bringing Wicked to cinemas was no easy feat. Talks of a film adaptation began as early as 2012, following the success of Les Misérables. Over the years, numerous directors and actors were attached to the project, and production faced delays, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Eventually, Ariana Grande was cast as Galinda (later shortened to Glinda), while Cynthia Erivo took on the role of Elphaba. Grande, primarily known for her music career, makes her full-fledged acting debut in a leading role, while Erivo, an Oscar nominee for Harriet (2020), brings a powerful presence to the screen.
Interestingly, what audiences saw in 2024 was only the first half of the musical’s story. The sequel is set to release in 2025, meaning that fans will have to wait another year for the conclusion. Universal Pictures reportedly invested $300 million into the two films, with an equally aggressive marketing push. The promotional campaign reached every corner of the U.S., from Times Square billboards to themed drinks at Starbucks, and even lighting up Paris’s Arc de Triomphe in honor of the film’s protagonists.
Visuals, Music, and Performances
Despite the high production budget, The Wizard of the Emerald City presents a version of Oz that feels overly polished, with CGI-heavy landscapes that lack a sense of true wonder. While American critics largely praised the film, some lamented that it fails to capture the charm of the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz.
The film’s biggest strength lies in its characters. The evolving friendship between Elphaba and Glinda is at the heart of the story, though the slow pacing of their journey may test the patience of some viewers. The musical performances, originally beloved on Broadway, are a key highlight—though international audiences may miss out on the full impact if the film is dubbed in their language.
Jeff Goldblum delivers a compelling performance as the Wizard, bringing his signature charm to a role that takes a darker turn. The story takes a notable shift in its final act when Elphaba discovers the corruption within Oz, particularly the mistreatment of sentient animals and the Wizard’s oppressive rule. By the time the film reaches its cliffhanger ending, audiences are left eager for more.
Looking Ahead to the Sequel
The second installment, scheduled for 2026, promises to explore the aftermath of Elphaba’s rebellion and the fate of familiar characters like the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion. While their origins are only hinted at in the first film, the sequel is expected to bring their transformations into full focus.
As for whether The Wizard of the Emerald City will live up to its Oscar buzz, the jury is still out. While die-hard fans of Wicked will revel in every musical number, casual viewers may feel less captivated. As Time magazine aptly put it, some audiences will be swept away by nostalgia, while others may feel like they’re simply along for the ride.
Watch The Wizard of the Emerald City on eBravoapp