Wicked movie shares a first look at Ariana Grande as Glinda
Director Jon M. Chu is defying gravity, as the long-awaited Wicked adaptation is taking flight on a broomstick. The Broadway hit is getting the movie treatment, and as we get ready to drop a house on the competition in 2024, fans get a first look at Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba and Ariane Grande's Glinda.
By now, we're sure you all know the story of Frank L. Baum's The Wizard of Oz - thanks mainly to the 1939 movie starring Judy Garland. Others know the story continued in Gregory Maguire's Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which gave Elphaba an origin story.
Wicked movie shows of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande
Wicked found its fame when it first trod the boards in 2003, with the Broadway musical starring Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth. The show has continued its run around the world, with a third UK and Ireland tour kicking off in December 2023.
As early as 2009, Maguire confirmed ABC was working on a Wicked TV series that still hasn't materialised, while a movie has been in development since 2012. Lea Michele and Amy Adams were once linked to roles, but now, Erivo and Grande will lead as the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch of the North.
Posting on Twitter, Chu shared a glimpse of Erivo and Grande in costume, with Elphaba's broomstick and pointed hat and Glinda's pink dress honouring their looks in The Wizard of Oz. This is actually the first part of the franchise, with Part I releasing on July 27, 2024. The second part is expected in 2025.
Fans react to first look at Wicked
Click to enlargeFans were over the moon that we're one step closer to Wicked. One wrote, "You have worked MAGIC Jon. this is incredible!!!! looks magical- I'm being transported to beside Glinda and Elphaba just by looking at these!!!," while another added, "I am so excited for this movie!"
A third said, "I have a feeling my favourite musical that means SO much to me is in good hands with you. ," and a fourth concluded, "Has a real theatricality to it. This looks great. I've seen the musical so many times and I'll be first in line. Love it!!!"
Some criticised the darkness of the photos, implying that Wicked has been Tim Burton-ised. Someone said, "Lighting courtesy of the Game of Thrones cinematography," however, Chu explained, "Don't worry, color is in my DNA… this is just the first tease. Plenty of time to show more… stay tuned."
These same complaints were given to David Lowery's Peter Pan & Wendy, but by the sounds of it, Chu knows what he's doing. Either way, we're ready to walk that iconic yellow brick road in style when Wicked eventually releases.