"Experience the Magic of 'Wicked' on the Big Screen"

Before the "Wizard of Oz"

The story of "Wicked" unfolds before, during, and after the well-known events of "The Wizard of Oz." In this first part of the two-part saga, we are primarily introduced to the "before" era. Glinda, the "Good Witch of the North" (portrayed by Ariana Grande), informs the citizens of Munchkinland that Elphaba, the "Wicked Witch of the West" (played by Cynthia Erivo), has been killed. This news brings a sense of relief to the townspeople, but also raises questions about Elphaba's past. Glinda recalls their first encounter years ago, and the rest of the movie takes us on a flashback.

Elphaba and Galinda (then known as Galinda) were students at the prestigious Shiz University. Elphaba's green skin made her an outcast even within her own family. She was only allowed to attend to take care of her sister Nessarose (portrayed by Marissa Bode), who used a wheelchair. Galinda, on the other hand, was pretty and popular but also spoiled and egotistical. Her world was turned upside down when she realized that she wasn't always given preferential treatment.

At Shiz University

Goat-professor Dr. Dillamond (played by Peter Dinklage) couldn't pronounce Galinda's name properly, yet he connected with Elphaba as she was kind to animals at a time when Oz was turning against them. Magic professor Madame Morrible (portrayed by Michelle Yeoh) also favored Elphaba because of her natural telekinetic abilities, while Galinda had no magic at all. Even studly prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) found Elphaba more intriguing as she didn't fall for his "brainless bad-boy" routine.

The girls initially hated each other but became friends after Galinda (with selfish motives) got Nessarose a date with nerdy munchkin Boq (Ethan Slater). Their friendship added a new dimension to the story and set the stage for the events to come.

Meeting the Wizard of Oz

Word of Elphaba's magical prowess reached the Emerald City, earning her an audience with the all-powerful Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum). Glinda accompanied her to meet the mysterious Wizard. Together, they discovered that his power was more about charisma than magic. However, Elphaba's magic was real, as she could give wings to the Wizard's monkey guards and even give the power of flight to nonliving things like a broom.

After a falling-out with the Wizard, Elphaba became the most feared person in Oz. But was her reputation justified? This is a question that lingers throughout the movie and keeps the audience engaged.

"Wicked" successfully delivers the epic proportions that fans expect. With a runtime of 160 minutes, it covers Act 1 of the Broadway show and includes bonus content like a stage show in the Emerald City that had the audience at the screening squealing with delight. While the extra length sometimes makes the movie plodding or interferes with the flow of key moments, it also adds depth and richness to the story.

Overall, "Wicked" has all the magic of the stage version and more. It is a must-see for fans of the musical and those who appreciate a well-told story with captivating characters. Grade: B

"Wicked" is rated PG for some scary action, thematic material, and brief suggestive material. Its running time is 160 minutes.

Robert Garver holds a degree in Cinema Studies from New York University. He has been a movie reviewer since 2006. More reviews can be found online at www.bobatthemovies.com. Feedback is welcome at rrg251@nyu.edu.