Movie adaptations are familiar in the world of filmmaking today, including dozens of adaptations ranging from books, comic books, TV shows, remakes of older films and even musicals.
“Wicked,” a Universal Studios film adaptation of the musical “Wicked” is set for exclusive release in theaters on Friday, Nov. 22.
According to West End World, fans have eagerly awaited the adaptation since its initial announcement in 2012, but production only began in 2021 after it was picked up by director Jon M. Chu.
The casting announcement of “The Color Purple” actress and Tony winner Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, Grammy winner Ariana Grande as Glinda and supporting roles from Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Yeoh caused a spur in reactions that left many to wonder if the movie will live up to its musical counterpart from 2003.
Critics who have seen the film and wrote one of the first reviews about it shared some positive responses.
“Wicked is hands down one of the year’s best films,” an online critic said.
Another critic said a similar appraisal, “I was ‘pessimistical’ going in, but…WICKED is a masterpiece.”
Other members of the general public show slight concern because of the movie’s “failed” remake of the musical’s infamous stage poster.
One critic said, “They wanted to leave enough of their faces uncovered for them to be identifiable, but now it just doesn’t look like the poster at all.”
Despite backlash over the movie poster, the marketing team for “Wicked” have racked up promotional deals with multiple brands: Stanley’s “Wicked” cups sold at Target, Aerie’s limited-edition “Wicked” collection, Mattel’s doll collaboration and r.e.m. beauty’s special makeup collection.
Starbucks has also designed its own cups and even made “Wicked” inspired beverages to promote the movie: Glinda’s Pink Potion and Elphaba’s Cold Brew.
Alongside the promotions, the actors are currently on a press tour that started on Nov. 3 in Sydney, Australia. Through the press tour, Grande, Ervio and other actors have dressed up in outfits inspired by their designated characters, a tactic also used on the “Barbie” press tour.
The subsequent tour stops include Los Angeles, Mexico City, New York and London. Each stop features a display inspired by sets from the movie to enchant and transform the ordinary world to a magical one. Bexley’s Drexel Theatre will be showing “Wicked” on its opening night with a special event in tow to celebrate the premiere. To view showtimes and book movie tickets, students can visit Drexel’s website.
