Wicked review: Critics praise Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s sensational performance in the ‘fabulous spectacle’ yet the duo haven’t managed to convince everyone they can ‘defy gravity’
As a dedicated follower of musicals and a longtime admirer of Wicked since its debut on Broadway, I’ve eagerly awaited this film adaptation with bated breath. With my ears attuned to the soaring melodies and eyes trained on the captivating storytelling, I must say that the movie left me both spellbound and slightly underwhelmed.
In just a few days, movie theaters nationwide will be filled with the stirring verses of “Defying Gravity” as the stage production of Wicked makes its grand debut on the silver screen this coming Friday.
In the forthcoming two-section movie, Cynthia Erivo takes on the role of Elphaba, while Ariana Grande portrays Glinda. This film is an adaptation of the beloved and long-running Broadway and West End musical.
Critics have been sharing their initial thoughts, generally commending the main actors for their impressive performances.
Yet while some reviews have branded the film a ‘fabulous spectacle‘ others have declared: ‘it doesn’t come close to defying gravity’.
In simpler terms, Peter Bradshaw from The Guardian stated that the movie is like an intense sugar rush fantasy filled with the dominant screen presence of Cynthia Erivo. It immerses you deeply in a vivid, M&M-filled ball pit for approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
In praise of Cynthia’s performance, he said: ‘Erivo’s captivating portrayal of Elphaba had an irresistible gravitational force on an illustrious ensemble cast.’
‘It’s an amazing sight that should be watched on the largest screen available.’
He expressed great enthusiasm about the cast selection, saying: “Erivo and Grande are spot-on and exceptionally captivating.
I acknowledge that the songs from Wicked sometimes feel quite similar, yet it’s challenging to think of anyone performing them more brilliantly than those two actors. Moreover, Ariana Grande showcases a natural comedic talent whenever Glinda playfully flips her beautiful hair.
‘Yeoh, Bailey and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard offer splendid support.’
Peter Debruge of Variety commended that unlike some recent musicals attempting to conceal their musical aspects from viewers, Wicked proudly acknowledges its musical nature, much like Elphaba proudly accepts her green complexion.
‘Turns out such confidence makes all the difference in how they’re perceived.’
Dave Fear from Rolling Stone penned: ‘When Erivo captures that moment and enters Oz’s history books on a broom, for a fleeting instant, it seems there’s nowhere else you’d rather be but by her side. Not even at home.’ He further noted: ‘Erivo is the one who is clearly defying the laws of gravity.’
While The Independent commended the performances of Ariana and Cynthia, they criticized the film’s cinematography as being less than satisfactory.
In a manner reminiscent of a commercial for an Airbnb property in Mykonos, Clarisse Loughrey described the cinematography of ‘Wicked’ as follows: ‘The scenes were framed and illuminated as if inviting us to purchase a vacation rental in Mykonos’.
Acknowledging that Cynthia excels at hitting challenging high notes in “Defying Gravity”, Clarisse also commented that, surprisingly, even though it’s long and just covers part of the tale, the movie doesn’t seem overly prolonged.
Nevertheless, her sentiment is that Wicked should aim for more ambitious and radiant dreams, or else it might vanish entirely under the influence of a timeless classic.
In their critique, The Telegraph stated that the film’s primary actresses failed to convincingly portray the illusion of weightlessness, which was a significant issue in this overblown, monotonous interpretation of the Wicked Witch of the West origin story.
Robbie Collin notes that the selection of the main actors seems unsuitable, as he characterizes Cynthia’s performance as displaying a somber seriousness with watery eyes, which gives the movie’s intense moments a stark, healing ambiance.
As he reflects, he finds that although Ariana’s voice is suitable for the role, she seems to lack the intense, overly polished edge that the part requires. Moreover, the feeling that one is merely observing a pop star enjoying herself and expanding her resume persists throughout.
According to Nicholas Barber of the BBC, this “prolonged” and “arrogant” movie shows that the musical shouldn’t have been divided into two separate parts.
Even though he acknowledged the impressive acting of Ariana and Cynthia, he also noted: “In the end, the movie is titled ‘Wicked,’ but unfortunately, it fails to truly embody the essence of ‘Defying Gravity’.
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2024-11-20 14:21