Review Film Wicked: Bintang Ariana Grande Shines, But Does the Movie Soar?
Ariana Grande's casting as Glinda in the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked has generated immense buzz. But does the film live up to the hype surrounding its star-studded cast and the beloved musical's legacy? This review dives into the performances, the visuals, and ultimately, whether Wicked the movie successfully translates the magic of the stage production to the big screen.
Ariana Grande as Glinda: A Sparkling Performance
Grande's portrayal of Glinda, the bubbly and popular Good Witch, is arguably the film's strongest element. Her vocal prowess is undeniable, effortlessly hitting those high notes and delivering the iconic songs with a captivating charm. Beyond the singing, Grande showcases a surprising depth to Glinda, portraying her vulnerability and inner conflicts with genuine emotion. She avoids falling into the trap of playing Glinda solely as a saccharine archetype, offering a nuanced and compelling performance. Ariana Grande's Glinda is a highlight, and her chemistry with Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) is electric.
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba: A Powerful, Yet Uneven Portrayal
Cynthia Erivo, as the misunderstood Elphaba, delivers a powerful vocal performance, particularly in the emotionally charged numbers. Her Elphaba is strong-willed and defiant, embodying the character's internal struggles convincingly. However, at times, the performance feels somewhat uneven. While the dramatic moments are potent, some of the lighter, more playful aspects of Elphaba seem less developed. This might be a result of the film's pacing or directorial choices, rather than a flaw in Erivo's acting. Nevertheless, Erivo's Elphaba is a force to be reckoned with, adding a layer of complexity to the character.
Visual Spectacle and Technical Achievements
The film's visual effects are stunning, creating a vibrant and fantastical Oz. The costumes are exquisite, capturing the essence of the musical's whimsical style. The choreography is dynamic and engaging, effectively translating the stage show's energy to the screen. The technical aspects of Wicked are undeniably impressive, immersing the viewer in the world of Oz. The cinematography and set design work in perfect harmony to create a visually breathtaking experience.
Pacing and Narrative Choices: A Few Missed Notes
While the film boasts impressive visuals and powerful performances, the pacing feels uneven at times. Some scenes feel rushed, while others drag on, potentially sacrificing the narrative flow for the sake of spectacle. Certain plot points from the stage musical are either streamlined or omitted, which may disappoint longtime fans. These narrative choices, while understandable given the need to adapt a long stage show to a film format, might leave some viewers feeling slightly unsatisfied. The film's pacing is a key element that could be improved upon.
Overall Verdict: A Worthy Adaptation, With Room for Growth
Wicked the movie is a visually stunning and musically captivating adaptation of the beloved stage musical. Ariana Grande delivers a star-making performance as Glinda, and Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba is powerful, even if somewhat uneven. While the film's pacing and narrative choices might leave some room for improvement, it ultimately succeeds in capturing the magic and emotion of the original production. It's a worthwhile cinematic experience for both fans of the musical and newcomers alike. The film’s success hinges on its ability to capture the heart of the story while presenting it in a fresh, cinematic way.