The Good Reasons To See Wicked in Theaters!

By: Mina Del Pilar

Wicked: The Musical has been a staple in the musical theater scene for years since its debut showing on October 8, 2003, and its official Broadway debut on October 30, 2003. Following the story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West from the Wizard of Oz, audiences witness what made her into that role. Her journey through higher education at Shiz University and the world beyond is joined by Glinda, her roommate. The plot, iconic songs, intricate set designs, and emotional depth between the characters truly make Wicked, something special to behold.

It makes sense that, when the movie version of Wicked was announced back in 2012, fans were ecstatic to finally see these beloved characters on the big screen. Released on November 22, 2024, part one out of two of the Wicked film series was released to the world.

In the adaptation, we still follow the story of Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo) who navigates her life at Shiz University. She still has her roommate, Glinda Upland, although for the majority of the movie she goes by Galinda. Elphaba is famously known for her green skin, which others in Oz tend to misjudge her for “being wicked”  because of it. Additionally, since birth, she has had mysterious yet powerful magical abilities that she learns to hone. 

Nonetheless, she finds her way through school, bonding with her sorcery instructor, Madame Morrible, and her history professor, Dr. Dillamond, who happens to be a goat. Animals in Oz face increasing prejudice from humans. Elphaba’s kindness and empathy towards the animals through her own unique situation help to build her drive to act on the matter. All over Oz, animals are losing the ability to speak, and Elphaba is determined to find a way to the “Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” Along the way, she and Glinda become very close and both of their lives are changed from the result of the film’s plot forever.

The film is a great deal of fun, providing a delightful viewing experience. The musical’s fun, quirky spirit is translated well with the vibrant sets, and designs. To those who are potentially skeptical about musicals in movies, Wicked is a great introduction to them. There is something to be had for everyone. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo put their unique spin on the characters, and the rest of the cast are talented. Their dedication to this project shines through all that they performed. Personally, as someone who preferred the musical over the movie at first, both versions now sit in a special place in my heart. It makes one await the second part of the film saga, “Wicked, For Good.” which is releasing in November 2025. It’s something special that can only be felt fully with viewing on the big screen before it’s only on home video.    

Wicked has been received by the public with critical success. It made $145 million dollars at the domestic box office, and an additional $194 million in international markets in the first opening weekend in theaters. It has simultaneously created a pop culture phenomenon sensation. 

The movie’s eye-catching marketing stunts helped to create this. Things like product tie-ins with Starbucks-themed drinks or Betty Crocker color-changing cake mixes solidified Wicked’s brand identity. The two stars from the film Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda) even made appearances at the Paris 2024 Olympics, further putting them into the public’s collective eye. In Wicked, there is a famous “riff” from the song “Defying Gravity” that was used in trailers for the movie. The riff has now increased its impact on fans, who they took to platforms like TikTok and other short-form media. Social media has helped Wicked become the powerhouse it continues to be at the box office.

Wicked has been out in theaters since November, 24th, 2024. It isn’t too late to see it there though! Due to its immense popularity with audiences, theaters everywhere have been playing “reissues” of the movie. As it happens, our local Lacey Theater has limited showings of Wicked still playing. The best way to see the reissue is to save yourself some hard-earned money, by purchasing some $5 movie tickets at the TUB! Bring your student ID, and cash only, to grab this wicked good deal. Offer limited while supplies last, limit two tickets per person. Our tickets do not expire, so you can go and see Wicked at any time that is best for your schedule!