After two decades of captivating audiences as one of the most iconic musicals, Wicked is set to make its highly anticipated transition to the big screen, arriving as a stunning, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, Wicked will be presented in two parts, with Wicked Part Two scheduled for release on November 26, 2025. This film adaptation tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz, featuring a star-studded cast led by Emmy, Grammy, and Tony winner Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman who grapples with her unique green skin and untapped powers, and Grammy-winning global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman shaped by privilege and ambition.
The story follows the two witches as they meet at Shiz University in the Land of Oz, forging a deep, unlikely friendship. However, after an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their bond is tested as their lives take diverging paths—Glinda’s pursuit of popularity leads her down a dangerous path of power, while Elphaba remains determined to stay true to herself, with shocking and transformative consequences for both of them.
Their journey will ultimately shape them into the iconic figures of Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Watch the trailer below:
REELated:
Joining the cast are Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh as the formidable headmistress Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as the charming prince Fiyero, and Ethan Slater as Boq, a well-meaning Munchkin student.
Marissa Bode makes her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba’s cherished sister, and Jeff Goldblum portrays the legendary Wizard of Oz. The ensemble is rounded out by Bowen Yang and Bronwyn James as Glinda’s scheming friends Pfannee and ShenShen, along with a new character, Miss Coddle, played by Keala Settle. Peter Dinklage lends his voice to Dr. Dillamond, the speaking goat professor at Shiz.
Wicked is produced by Marc Platt, whose impressive resume includes La La Land and The Little Mermaid, alongside David Stone, with whom Platt also produced the stage musical. Executive producers include David Nicksay, Stephen Schwartz, and Jared LeBoff. The screenplay is adapted by Winnie Holzman, who wrote the book for the original stage production, and legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, who returns to write the music and lyrics for the film adaptation.
Based on Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel, Wicked is ready to bring its magical and emotional journey to the silver screen, inviting both longtime fans and new audiences into the fantastical world of Oz.
This article was brought to you for FREE. Independent Journalism is not. Please support Reel 360 News and Reel Chicago by donating here.
