Wickedly Well Done: ‘Wicked: Part One’ Captured the Magic of the Stage

I love musicals. I’ve been lucky enough to grow up attending them, and that’s where some of my best memories have been made. One of my all time favorites is “Wicked”. I adore the stage production, so when I heard they were making a movie, I was excited, but skeptical.

I’ve been able to see the touring production of “Wicked” three times now, and every time I’m blown away. It’s something I recommend everyone see if they get a chance. It’s an incredible, gripping performance that pulls you in. It’s extravagant in a way that’s purely Ozian. It’s also incredibly emotional and has you caring about characters in a way you never thought you would.

Having seen the movie twice now, I have to say, they captured the magic. Even though I have critiques, the movie managed to capture how it feels to watch the musical on stage.

My two major critiques are about the color grading and the run time. I can understand what the director was going for with the color since we aren’t seeing Oz from an outside perspective, but personally, I associate Oz with incredibly vivid colors. And to be fair, it’s not something I really notice when I’m watching the movie because I’m so caught up in the story.

I don’t understand how the first part ended up as long as the original musical. It didn’t feel like there was that much added, but apparently, there was. I remain confused.

That being said, the movie was so beautifully done. The acting was phenomenal and I love what everyone brought to their role.

One of my favorite things about the movie is how casual the student’s inclusion of Nessarose is. It’s been a few years since I’ve last seen the musical, so I can’t exactly remember how that was handled. But one of the most impactful scenes for me takes place during “Dancing Through Life” when the students enter using the ramp. She isn’t singled out or alone. It’s never a question if she can dance, but if she wants to.

I found the movie to be as gripping as the musical. Even though I know what happened, I was on the edge of my seat. It felt like the movie flew by.

The movie is beautiful and has inspired so many people. It’s been amazing to see people learning the choreography or covering “Defying Gravity”. I love finally being able to share my love for this incredible musical and I eagerly await the next movie. I already know I’m going to cry.

For now, though, let’s rejoicify a well done adaptation of an iconic piece of Oz.

Kai Spahr is a Buhler sophomore studying media and film production and the Opinion Page Editor. Follow them on Twitter.

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