#5 Movies

 Wicked is an upcoming movie based on the best-selling Broadway musical, which was inspired by Gregory Maguire's novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. The film is set to be released in two parts, with the first installment which premiered on November 27, 2024 and the seccond part set to premiere November 21, 2025. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the movie stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. Wicked tells the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West, exploring her past, her friendship with Glinda, and the events that led to her being labeled as "wicked" in the land of Oz.

Elphaba was born different from everyone else, with emerald-green skin that set her apart from a young age. She grew up in a complicated household, facing rejection from her father, who never truly accepted her. Her only real connection was with her younger sister, Nessarose, who was favored by their father due to her disability. Despite her struggles, Elphaba learned to navigate the world on her own, developing a deep intelligence and a strong will. When she is sent to Shiz University, her life takes a new turn as she meets Glinda, sparking an unexpected friendship. The movie shifts between different points in Elphaba’s journey, showing her growth from an outcast student to the powerful and misunderstood figure known as the Wicked Witch of the West.

Glinda, portrayed by Ariana Grande in Wicked, is initially introduced as the bubbly, popular, and seemingly perfect student at Shiz University. She is admired for her charm, beauty, and social status, but beneath her glamorous exterior, she struggles with the pressure of maintaining her reputation. When she is unexpectedly paired with Elphaba, the two form an unlikely friendship that challenges Glinda’s beliefs about power, privilege, and morality. Throughout the movie, Glinda undergoes significant character growth, evolving from a self-absorbed socialite into a more self-aware and compassionate individual. However, as their paths diverge, she is forced to choose between maintaining her position in society or standing by her friend. Her journey is filled with humor, heartbreak, and self-discovery, making her one of the most dynamic and compelling characters in Wicked.

The beginning of Wicked introduces us to the vibrant yet divided land of Oz, where Elphaba is feared for her green skin and powerful abilities. As the story unfolds, the plot jumps back and forth between her time at Shiz University, where she forms an unlikely friendship with Glinda, and the events that ultimately lead to her being labeled as the "Wicked Witch of the West." Elphaba becomes the number one enemy of the Wizard and his regime after she discovers the corruption behind his rule and refuses to conform. Meanwhile, Glinda, though torn between loyalty and ambition, chooses to align herself with the Wizard, allowing Elphaba to be painted as a villain. Throughout the movie, Elphaba fights to protect the oppressed, including the talking animals of Oz, while also dealing with betrayal, heartbreak, and the consequences of standing up for what is right.

 

Wicked, the 2024 film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, has achieved remarkable financial success since its release. As of March 8, 2025, the movie has grossed approximately $729 million worldwide, making it the fifth highest-grossing film of 2024. In its opening weekend, Wicked earned $164 million globally, setting a new record for the largest opening for a Broadway adaptation. 

The Wicked movie sparked a Viral trend on TikTok, with fans recreating iconic scenes and performing lip-syncs to songs like Defying Gravity and Popular. The hashtag #WickedMovie gained millions of views as users showcased their transformations into Elphaba and Glinda, often using dramatic makeup and special effects. This trend not only reignited excitement for the film but also introduced a new generation to the beloved musical.  

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