Will ‘Wicked’ Sweep the Oscars? Here’s Why It Deserves Best Picture!

The buzz surrounding Wicked being an Oscars contender is hard to ignore, and it’s easy to see why.

In addition to its captivating songs and memorable acting, the groundbreaking debut of Wicked signified a significant step forward in the development of movie musicals.

Jon M Chu, who’s known for movies like Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, is the director of this film, which is divided into two parts, similar to the original stage production. Although we won’t get the whole story until November, the first part has already been recognized as a Best Picture nominee.

As a movie reviewer, I’d say it’s clear to see that the success of Wicked hinges significantly on its exceptional casting choices. Ariana Grande, with her powerful vocal prowess and knack for comedy, truly shines as Glinda. She’s already demonstrated her singing abilities, but here she showcases her acting talents too, particularly in her impressive physical comedy routines.

On the other hand, Cynthia Erivo delivers a mesmerizing portrayal of Elphaba that leaves fellow Leading Actress nominees in the dust. Her performance is not just emotionally gripping but also remarkably complex, highlighting Elphaba’s inner turmoil and depth in a way that truly resonates with audiences.

The connection between these two characters sparkles just as much as an electric current, and though their affectionate publicity stunts drew some laughter online – posing together in intimate poses like holding space for each other – they demonstrated that the extraordinary bond of the witches from Oz extends far beyond the silver screen.

Additionally reinforcing the movie’s power are the ensemble players, notably Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, and Ethan Slater who bring life to their characters, particularly Boq, a munchkin who has gained fame on TikTok.

Although Wicked is recognized for its captivating musical performances, what truly makes it stand out is its compelling storyline. As a prequel to L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the themes of discrimination, rivalry, and prejudice mirrored in other nominated productions reinforce Wicked’s rightful position alongside them, demonstrating why it deserves to be included among them.

Watching Elphaba’s struggle with family and peer rejection because of her green skin in this musical provides a poignant and crucial perspective, transforming it into a profound reflection on self-identity and acceptance.

The movie delves deeply into intricate and shifting personalities, moving beyond the simple contrast of good and evil; instead, it probes the nuanced realms, thereby offering a profound reflection of societal dynamics.

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The cinematography and design of Wicked are exceptional, as demonstrated by its BAFTA awards for costume and production. The world of Oz is beautifully rendered with intricate detail, from the lush tulip fields of Munchkin Land to Fiyero’s midnight-blue steed and the shimmering Emerald City.

The updated dance routines, revised script with clever twists, and well-placed celebrity appearances effectively modernize this 22-year-old program, retaining its classic elements while bringing to light previously overlooked aspects during performances.

Using stained glass to symbolize Elphaba’s transforming skin tone during “The Wizard and I” musical scene is a strong testament to the filmmakers’ inspired artistic decisions, making it worthy of great appreciation.

For a staggering investment of $145 million, not a single penny was skimped on creating a visually breathtaking and deeply moving cinematic experience.

After years of eagerly waiting and mounting excitement, there was a strong possibility that the movie “Wicked” might fall short. However, it surpasses expectations in a remarkable way, not just meeting fan’s satisfaction but also captivating new viewers and critics alike. If “Wicked” were to win the Best Picture award, it would solidify its status as a film worthy of serious consideration, and an artistic masterpiece that can be enjoyed both on stage and screen.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but marvel at the extraordinary impact of “Wicked.” This phenomenal stage production has left an indelible mark on over 65 million viewers spanning across sixteen different nations. With more than a hundred awards adorning its mantle, including three prestigious Tonys, two Oliviers, and even a Grammy, it’s clear that “Wicked” knows how to enthrall both critics and audiences alike.

The movie, by seamlessly blending the stage and screen, offers a refined adaptation of the cherished tale to a broader public, thereby asserting itself as a significant player in the world of cinema.

For their individual acting awards, the main actors still have plenty at stake. However, for Ariana Grande, who has been a long-time fan of Wicked, simply slipping into Glinda’s pink shoes – a role she’s coveted since 2011 – might just be a prize enough in itself.

If Erivo triumphs, she’ll become a member of the exclusive “EGOT” club, having earned an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony – a remarkable feat that would solidify her status as one of the most outstanding performers of her time. Her exceptional talent, relentless work ethic, and commanding portrayal of this monumental role make her the standout in the film.

As a devoted cinephile, I’ve seen my fair share of musicals being brushed aside as fluffy entertainment. However, the Best Picture nomination for Wicked and Emilia Peréz’s recognition has proven that these productions can hold their ground against the traditional heavyweights in Oscar contention. Musicals like Wicked are no longer mere dessert courses; they’ve earned a place at the main table alongside films that have historically dominated the Academy Awards discourse.

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2025-02-27 19:07