After 21 years of captivating audiences, Wicked, the long-awaited film adaptation of the smash-hit Broadway musical, is finally defying gravity and leaping to the silver screen. 1News’ Aziz Al Sa’afin sat down with the film’s stars to discover the magic behind the cinematic spectacle.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film delves into the backstory of Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West from the 1939 movie classic The Wizard of Oz, based on author L. Frank Baum’s children’s tale.
Broadway star Cynthia Erivo portrays alienated, pea-green-skinned Elphaba, who later becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. Pop superstar Ariana Grande plays Glinda (future Good Witch), Elphaba’s roommate at Shiz University, where they become roommates and unlikely friends — until they’re driven apart.
Jeff Goldblum plays The Wizard, Jonathan Bailey stars as Fiyero, and Marissa Bode plays Nessarose in the film, which has been split into two parts. Part Two will not be in cinemas for another year.
Defying gravity
Stepping into the legendary roles was a surreal experience for Erivo and Grande.
“Thinking back to the audition is a lifetime ago,” shared Erivo.
Grande added, “We’ve loved the show our whole lives, and even being considered — both of us were so humbled. It’s been an amazing journey.”
Kristin Chenoweth starred as Glinda in the original Broadway production of Wicked. For Grande, stepping into Chenoweth’s shoes was a dream come true.
“It’s a role I’ve wanted to play since I was ten years old,” she said.
Erivo touched on the singing aspect within the movie.
“We sang live throughout the entire film because it allows us to tell the most truth and be really present,” she said.
But Wicked isn’t just a tale about witches. Grande reflected on why Wicked continues to resonate with audiences.
“Pieces of these women, both of them, live within everybody,” she said. “That’s why it resonates so well with people. I’ve felt like Elphaba at times, and I’ve felt like Glinda sometimes. Everyone knows what it feels like to have both sides of that.”
Goldblum and Bailey
Bailey described Wicked’s story as “cinematic, musical wonderment”.
He reflected on his dance scenes in the film: “I tried ballet when I was younger, and honestly, that sense of freedom came flooding back during rehearsals. Our choreographer, Chris Scott, was extraordinary — he brought so much heart to every movement.”
Goldblum added: “It’s not every day you get to bring such a classic story to life. But the real magic was in the collaborative spirit of this cast — it’s been a joy.”
Bailey acknowledged the talent behind the movie adaptation.
“We were surrounded by the most extraordinary shepherds and shepherdesses of cinematic, musical wonderment.”
Making history
While many familiar faces make up the cast of Wicked, the film also introduces some fresh ones.
Marissa Bode, making her film debut as Nessarose, is also making history as the first actor to play the character who uses a wheelchair in real life.
She emphasised the importance of representation as a differently-abled actress playing a differently-abled role.
“The feedback I’ve seen from the disabled community means the absolute world to me. It’s so important for people to feel seen and less alone,” Bode said.
“I think I relate to all the characters in one way or another because there are pockets of humanity in each of the characters, and to be a part of it all is just so cool.”
Co-star Ethan Slater, who plays the character Boq, spoke about the journey to being cast in the film.
“It’s been wicked. Just getting to do it and work on the film is something that I’ve loved,” Slater said.
“[Wicked] was one of the first shows that I ever saw, maybe the second show I ever saw, and it holds a really huge space in my heart.
“To be able to do it and to play Boq, a character I’ve always wanted to play, on this level with such an amazing cast that’s been like a dream come true,” he added.
Wicked: Part One is out now in New Zealand cinemas. Part Two is due on November 27, 2025.
Watch the extended interview, including bonus material, on TVNZ+.
