“It’s not prom”: Ariana Grande’s ‘Wicked’ Does 1 Thing Different From the Musical’s Previous Iterations and It’s a Huge Improvement

SUMMARY

• Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of Wicked redefines the Ozdust Ballroom as an underground club, emphasizing rebellion and authenticity.
• The film aims for emotional satisfaction, ensuring that audiences feel a complete story in its first installment.
• With a focus on the complexities of Elphaba and Glinda's friendship, the adaptation resonates with contemporary themes of identity and acceptance.

Show More▼

Anticipation has been mounting as fans are eagerly awaiting the cinematic adaptation of Wicked, which is set to grace theaters soon. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this two-part film promises to bejewel the audiences with its vibrant storytelling and fresh interpretations of beloved characters.

A still from Wicked | Marc Platt Productions

With a stellar cast including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the film seeks to explore themes of love, ambition, and rebellion against the backdrop of a fantastical world. Yet, it’s the innovative storytelling approach that sets this adaptation apart, igniting discussions among longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Ariana Grande Starrer Wicked’s Fresh Take On Musicals

A still from Wicked | Marc Platt Productions

One of the most significant improvements in Wicked lies in its reimagining of pivotal scenes, particularly the Ozdust Ballroom. Unlike previous iterations, which often presented a sanitized view of life in Oz, this film embraces a more authentic and rebellious spirit. Director Jon M. Chu explained the same in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.

It’s not prom. I always found that difficult to understand, like, ‘Wait, is this dance sanctioned by the school? Then why is that rebellious?’

Chu’s vision redefines the essence of key moments such as Dancing Through Life, and rather than portraying a conventional school dance, the Ozdust Ballroom serves as a vibrant underground club where the characters experience genuine freedom. This change aligns with the book’s more nuanced portrayal of Oz’s underground life, tapping into the rebellious spirit of youth and the quest for authenticity.

If we were going to split it into two, we need to make sure that movie one is emotionally satisfying.

Chu emphasizes the importance of creating a film that stands on its own, ensuring that audiences feel a complete emotional arc. This commitment to delivering a fully realized story sets Wicked apart from other adaptations that often leave viewers feeling unfulfilled, instead promising a cinematic experience that culminates in joy and connection to its characters.

The Story Behind the Magic: What Wicked Offers

Ariana Grande in a still from Wicked | Marc Platt Productions

The film is based on the acclaimed musical and follows Elphaba and Glinda’s journey at Shiz University, where they navigate the tumultuous waters of new love and societal expectations. It seems like this adaptation is aiming to explore the nuances of their friendship, adding layers that fans of both the musical and the original novel will appreciate.

Moreover, the addition of talented stars like Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande is bound to draw more viewers. By moving beyond the simplistic interpretations of past adaptations, Chu has breathed new life into the narrative, allowing it to resonate with younger generations who grapple with similar issues of identity and acceptance.

It challenges viewers to consider the complexities of choices made and the relationships formed along the way. As we approach the film’s release, there’s an undeniable excitement about how this adaptation will redefine the beloved story, pushing boundaries while remaining faithful to its roots.

Wicked’s theatrical release is scheduled for November 22, 2024.

Written by Sonika Kamble

Articles Published: 95

Sonika thrives on her passion for cinema, artistic expression, and philosophical exploration. Every medium of storytelling intrigues her, and she can’t help but dissect the layers to unravel the deeper meaning behind an arc or a scene. She finds contentment in playing chess, vibing to background scores, and penning the next chapter of her book. Sonika is driven by the idea of being a dutiful and responsible human who dedicates herself to a task, regardless of the outcome—a principle she’s committed to upholding at FandomWire.