Wicked: Part 2 will change the original musical more than Part 1 did

Wicked: Part 2 will change the original musical more than Part 1 did

As someone who has been enchanted by the magic of Broadway for decades, I must say that “Wicked: Part 1” was a spellbinding cinematic experience that truly transported me back to the mesmerizing world of Oz. The movie not only lived up to its hype but surpassed it in many ways.

The recently released film, “Wicked,” adapted from the popular Broadway musical, is undeniably a triumph. Not just any success, but an extraordinary one: it has broken records as the highest-grossing movie ever made from a Broadway musical, at least within the U.S.; and its soundtrack is dominating numerous Billboard charts. With such a positive response, audiences eagerly anticipate “Wicked: Part 2,” slated for release in November next year, which will conclude this prequel to “The Wizard of Oz.

Title Wicked: Part 1 reproduces the initial act of the Broadway musical, retaining most elements cherished by fans. A few additions have been made, such as a chase scene involving flying money, along with some crowd-pleasing appearances. However, it largely adheres closely to the original production by composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz.

Even though Schwartz attempted to alter certain elements, such as reimagining the song “Popular” sung by Galinda, which was performed by Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba, he suggested modernizing it. He thought of updating the rhythm and possibly incorporating a hip-hop vibe. However, pop star Ariana Grande, who portrayed Galinda, expressed her disagreement. “Ariana insisted, ‘Definitely not! I want to be Glinda, not Ariana Grande playing Glinda.’

As a devoted cinephile, I found myself intrigued by Ariana Grande’s decision to reconsider the finale for “Popular.” She initially hesitated, but I convinced her that if I had envisioned it for the original production, this would have been the perfect fit. Once she was assured that this new piece of music remained true to her character, she wholeheartedly embraced the idea.

How Wicked: Part 2 will change the stage show (Beware SPOILERS)

As a person who watched Wicked on stage long ago, I didn’t catch the updated ending, so it seems like it was successful for me. Overall, I appreciated how closely the movie mirrored the original musical, but there are further alterations planned for Wicked: Part 2, which is based on Act II of the play. In fact, Schwartz has penned two entirely new songs for this sequel!

Last year, Schwartz explained to The Messenger that the elements were developed organically within the storyline because it was essential for the narrative, not forced onto the movie. He mentioned there are fresh aspects that fans might appreciate. However, their primary goal is to ensure that those who value the story and the series won’t be disappointed but instead delighted by what they will witness and the new elements added, as well as the innovative way film is utilized.

In addition, we’ve learned about other modifications in store. Marissa Bode, who portrays Elphaba’s wheelchair-bound sister Nessarose, shared with PEOPLE that there will be a reworked script for a significant scene in Act 2, where Nessarose asks Elphaba to employ her magic to enable her to walk. As Bode mentioned, director Jon M. Chu explained, “We altered this part specifically so it feels less like a healing moment.” Instead of Nessarose begging for her disability to be cured, the revised scene will concentrate more on the magic in general and the magical aspect of the story itself.

As a fan of the first “Wicked” movie, I must admit that I don’t fully grasp what Bode was hinting at (“And that’s all I can say, I think!” she said), but given my faith in the talent of director Jon M. Chu and his team, I am optimistic about “Part 2”. Mark your calendars for November 21, 2025, when we’ll be reunited in theaters. Happy Thanksgiving!

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2024-12-03 23:41

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