Movies

Award-winning singer lands major role in new animated film after smash-hit movie success

BBG News

She previously starred in a hit musical that won over both critics and fans. 

Currently, renowned pop artist Ariana Grande, aged 32, has been chosen to voice a character in the animated version of the timeless Dr. Seuss tale, “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” This could mean that her devoted fans might have to hold off a bit longer for the release of a new album.

However, there’s a bit of comfort to be found – the upcoming movie is going to be a musical, which means that her singing voice will continue to delight audiences when it hits theaters in March 2028.

It’s not surprising that Ariana was chosen for the role since the project is being directed by Jon M. Chu, who has previously worked on Wicked.

She will star alongside Josh Gad, 44, best known as the voice of Olaf in Frozen. 

Fans don’t need to wait much longer, as Ariana will be back on the big screen this coming November, starring in “Wicked: Part Two – For Good.

In November of last year, a movie adaptation of the epic fantasy novel written by Gregory Maguire in 1995, which later became a highly successful Broadway musical that won three Tonys in 2003, premiered in theaters.

Under the guidance of director Jon M. Chu and boasting a stunning production budget of $145 million, the film adaptation of Wicked has been divided into two full-length movies. The concluding part is scheduled to hit theaters in November 2025.

Praise for Wicked: Part One has been flowing, with many critics hailing it as a ‘masterwork’ that ‘sparkles and captivates’ in cinemas, inviting viewers into the magical realm of Oz.

In the movie, Ariana and Cynthia Erivo, portraying Glinda and Elphaba, were highly acclaimed for their powerful singing voices and captivating on-screen connection.

Film and television critic Scott Menzel confidently declared it as the “outstanding big-screen renditions of a Broadway musical, unparalleled in quality.

Last year, Idina Menzel expressed that ‘Wicked’ is an exceptional cinematic extravaganza, ranking among the finest big-screen adaptations of a Broadway musical ever made. Jon M. Chu skillfully translates the enchantment of the stage production while infusing his own distinctive touches into the original content.

In a fantastic performance, both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo shine brilliantly as Elphaba and Glinda. Jonathan Bailey, too, impresses in this movie adaptation. The film version of ‘Wicked’ not only meets expectations but frequently surpasses them.

Additionally, Menzel hinted that spectators of the Broadway musical would be utterly amazed by a specific scene, possibly even losing their composure over it.

‘Wicked is hands down one of the year’s best films,’ Menzel concluded. 

In simpler terms, Variety’s Jazz Tangcay stated that the Wicked production surpassed all our expectations and presented to us a truly outstanding musical composition. Director Chu, Erivo, and Grande have graced us with a veritable musical masterwork.

Tangcay stated, “Ariana and Cynthia are going to leave you astonished. The set design and clothing are visually stunning.

Film reviewer Katy Stephens, hailing from Variety, confessed that their initial sentiment was skepticism; however, they are now delighted to announce that Wicked has proven itself as a true “masterwork.

In a tweet, Stephen expressed that Ariana Grande brings Glinda to life beautifully. Every moment she’s on stage is filled with enthusiasm, wit, and playful hair tosses.

Jon M. Chu brought such vibrancy and freshness to the tale that it’s clear why it necessitated a two-part adaptation! Absolutely worth the twenty-year anticipation.

Erin Stecker of IndieWire praised Wicked as the most outstanding film adaptation of a musical since Chicago (2002), featuring Renee Zellweger, and Mamma Mia (2008), with Meryl Streep in leading roles.

In a mystical realm called Oz, an extraordinary bond forms between the witches Elphaba (Cynthia) and Glinda (Ariana), who initially have contrasting personalities.

Elphaba is unjustly portrayed as an evil sorceress because her mission is to reveal the deceitful and corrupt ruler of the kingdom, who is actually a wizard.

Wicked is the origin story of ‘a green-skinned woman who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West.’

The story provides a backstory for “The Wizard of Oz,” focusing on events leading up to Dorothy’s arrival and deepening our understanding of the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda, two significant characters from that tale.

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2025-07-16 23:34

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