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Back around 2010 I saw a Wicked off Broadway and I was an immediate fan. The story drew you in, the soundtrack was powerful, full of emotion, and the over-the-top characters were so much fun to watch. When it was announced that a Wicked film was in production I was a little bit worried, primarily based on films like Phantom of the Opera (2004). That was another musical that I absolutely loved, but felt it had been botched by the director and Girard Butler’s lack of vocal prowess.
Fortunately, when I saw Wicked in theaters, I was pleasantly surprised to find sweeping landscapes, beautifully choreographed musical numbers, delightful cameos, and an over the top (in a good way) performance by Ariana Grande as Galinda (later, Glinda). Cynthia Erivo and the rest of the cast were absolutely phenomenal, and it stayed true to the story presented in the original musical. Though I wish they had done something with the Elphaba’s awful dance at the Oz Dust Ballroom. I know it serves the plot, but in the most awkward way possible. It was weird in the Broadway show and it was weird to watch in the movie.
However, my one big problem, though it is a small problem in hindsight was the music. They would often – in-service to the visual narrative – draw out sections of a song. For instance, a good 10-15 seconds would go by before a song would conclude with the final verse. If you don’t believe me, listen to the soundtrack. Better yet, watch the movie. It’s actually cut better on the soundtrack.
Why is this a problem? Well, when you’ve been listening to the soundtrack for 15-20 years, you want to be able to sing with it, if not aloud, in your head. And cutting up the music makes that very difficult if not somewhat annoying.
Am I being petty? Does this really matter? I watched Wicked: Part 1 again to find out. My conclusion? I didn’t care anymore. The first viewing was a subtle gut punch and then I was over it. Some fans may not even notice. Newcomers certainly won’t.
Otherwise, a near perfect film and a wonderful interpretation of the beloved Broadway musical.
NerdScore: 8.5/10