‘WICKED’: Everything We Know So Far

Key Takeaways:
– New footage for Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of “Wicked” debuted at CinemaCon.
– The presentation included an interactive experience with lanyards and roses lighting up in sync with the theater’s music.
– The movie’s stars, including Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, and Michelle Yeoh, made surprise appearances.
– The first installment of Wicked’s cinematic adaptation is set for November 27, 2024

Given an enchanting treat at CinemaCon, Universal presented the first-ever footage of the eagerly anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked.” The studio, known for surprise releases, chose the ideal platform for the debut with CinemaCon in Las Vegas.

A Magical Experience at CinemaCon

During Universal’s grand CinemaCon presentation, the studio engaged the audience with an imitable magical experience. Participants were gifted lit-up lanyards and roses that flashed in various colors, meaningfully interacting with the cinema’s entrancing music and unfolding storyline, significantly intensifying the ambiance.

Jeff Goldblum as Oz

Jeff Goldblum, playing the Great and Powerful Oz, further electrified the crowd with his witty stage presence and comments about his character. Famous for his roles in epic movies like Jurassic Park, Goldblum expressed his excitement about working on the “Wicked” project, appreciating the chance to shoot in real sets and also show off his singing and dancing skills.

Star-Studded Presentation

Jon M. Chu, director of the adaptation, was joined onstage by stars Michelle Yeoh and Jonathan Bailey. Yeoh humorously questioned her consistent casting in mean characters, while also expressing initial apprehension about singing in the movie. Chu responded with high praise for Yeoh’s versatility, referencing her impactful roles in movies like the Oscar-winning “Everything Everywhere All At Once.”

“Crazy Rich Asians” stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande also appeared on stage, color-coordinated as their respective characters. Both revealed important connections with “Wicked”, mentioning it as a pivotal influence for their acting careers.

First Look at “Wicked”

In a tantalizing final play, Universal showcased new footage where Glinda and Elphaba spark their iconic friendship at a magical academy. However, the trailer notably missed out on featuring any songs, a vital element of the original Broadway show.

From Stage to Screen

“Wicked” has been bound to make its transition from the stage to the screen since 2004. The Tony Award-winning stage musical, based on Gregory Maguire’s bestseller, tells the untold story of Elphaba, the infamous Wicked Witch of the West.

Helmed by Jon M. Chu, the film promises to uphold the story’s essence while adding layers of depth to its beloved characters over the course of a two-part production. The star-studded cast includes Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, Ariana Grande as Glinda, and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, among others.

“Wicked: Part One” will premiere globally in cinemas on November 27, 2024.

Exploring The Land of Oz

Fans can expect to traverse the Land of Oz like never before, encompassing Elphaba’s consequential journey, the dynamic witch duo, along with an expansive look at the magical realm, from Crage Hall at Shiz University to the northern province of Gillikin.

With much anticipation, movie-goers wait with bated breath for “Wicked.” The glimpse at CinemaCon has undoubtedly fanned the flames, leaving fans more eager than ever for this magical journey to hit the screens.