'Wicked' Sends Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo to Oscar Race; The first reaction called it a 'masterpiece' and an 'absolutely stunning sight'

Universal's “Wicked” has finally been unveiled to members of the film press, who are praising John M. Chu's adaptation of the hit Broadway musical. The film's leads, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, are also garnering praise across the board as the musical launches them into Oscar season as acting contenders.

of diversity Catsy Stephen hailed the movie “Wicked” as a “masterpiece”, adding: “Ariana Grande makes Glinda sparkle: she milks every moment with exuberance, humor and hair-turning. John M. Chu brings so much new life to the story that I can see I get why it's worth the 20 year wait!

Journalist Simon Thompson was impressed with the film's visuals, calling it “absolutely stunning vision”. Erivo takes the lead and knocks Grande out of the park. While it probably won't convert many anti-music folk, genre fans and die-hard Ozians (Wickhards?) will feast on it.”

“John M. Chu, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have given us a musical masterpiece far beyond what we could have hoped for,” of diversity Written by Jazz Tangcay. “Ariana and Cynthia will blow you away. The production design and costumes are a visual spectacle.”

Let me put it out there: I'm a “wicked” fanatic. I saw the original Broadway production with Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth in their iconic roles of the misunderstood Elphaba and the effortlessly popular Glinda. It's hard to forget the magic they conjured on stage, which is why I approached “Crazy Rich Asians” director John M. Chu's film adaptation with cautious optimism. But 60 seconds into the opening number, “No One Mourns for the Wicked,” my doubts faded.

As Glinda, Ariana Grande brings charm and intelligence to a character known for her bubbly exterior and hidden depths. The 31-year-old pop star commands each of Glinda's signature numbers, including a rousing rendition of “Popular.” But it's his knack for comedic timing that makes him so memorable. Her various one-liners and zinger deliveries are among the film's highlights, potentially positioning her for her first Oscar nomination in the Best Supporting Actress category. It wouldn't be the first time a pop star successfully moved to the Dolby Theater: Cher won Best Actress for “Moonstruck” years after her debut in “Silkwood,” proving that pop stars can shine anywhere. Correct role. It was this role that Grande was born.

The Supporting Actress category has long welcomed musical performances. From Meryl Streep's nomination for “Into the Woods” to Catherine Zeta-Jones' win for “Chicago,” the Academy has often celebrated actresses who can show off their singing chops. However, Grande faces several other multi-hyphenated competition in her Oscar sights this year, including Selena Gomez for her Spanish-language musical role in “Emilia Perez” and Jennifer Lopez in the sports biopic “Unstoppable.” Sadly, Lady Gaga's awards are expected for “Joker 2” amid the film's negative reviews and poor box office numbers.

Cynthia Erivo, alongside Grande, is a powerhouse actress with a Tony Award for “The Color Purple” and Oscar nominations for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman in “Harriet.” Here, Erivo takes on Elphaba, the “wicked” witch whose misunderstood nature dictates her desire to be accepted by those around her. Erivo brings his own twist and depth to the role, portraying a character who, despite his undeniable abilities, feels forever out of place in Oz. Erivo's chances in the lead actress category may be much tougher than her co-star's due to the competitive landscape. While musical performances can be Oscar gold — Jennifer Hudson's win for “Dreamgirls” is a prime example — voters don't always embrace the genre, and Erivo's fate may depend on “Wicked's” overall awards momentum.

But can “Wicked Part One” secure a spot among the year's best picture nominees?

It has its way into the technical category, as technical nominations can increase a film's chances for Best Picture recognition. Although not a surefire strategy, nominations for directing, acting and screenplay can propel a musical into the top category. The screenplay category has traditionally been difficult for music; Only one won in the adapted category — 1958's “Gigi” — and only four were nominated.

The “Wicked” production team brings the wealth of Oscar pedigree to the table. Six-time nominee Nathan Crowley, known for Christopher Nolan films like “The Prestige,” “Dunkirk” and “Interstellar,” joins the brilliant set, creating an Oz that feels both familiar and reimagined. Oscar-nominated costume designer Paul Tazewell (“West Side Story”) added to the film's visual splendor. Meanwhile, the makeup and hairstyling teams shine, with Elphaba's bright green skin and Glinda's signature blonde curls popping on the big screen.

The sound and visual effects departments could also work in “Wicked's” favor. Musicals often succeed in sound (see past winners like “Les Miserables” and “Dreamgirls”) and “Wicked's” sprawling landscape — complete with scenes of flying monkeys and busy trains — showcases the kind of scenery the Academy sometimes rewards.

While “Wicked Part One” lacks an original song — sources indicate that Part Two, due in 2025, will feature many original compositions. With an accomplished ensemble and two powerhouse leads, “Wicked” is poised to defy Oscar gravity, if the hype is aimed high enough.

Check out the first responses to “Evil” in the posts below