Premiere - Wicked Casts Its Spell at Sidney Premiere: A Magical Night at the State Theatre Marks the Dawn of a Cinematic Oz

By Mulder, Australie, Sidney, State Theatre, 03 november 2024

Sidney’s State Theatre transformed into a realm of enchantment on November 3, 2024, as the world premiere of Wicked, the cinematic adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical, dazzled audiences and fans alike. Directed by the acclaimed Jon M. Chu, the film promises to redefine the boundaries of cinematic musicals, weaving a tale of friendship, identity, and the eternal struggle between good and evil in the vibrant Land of Oz. With a star-studded red carpet and an eager global fanbase, the Sydney event marked the beginning of Wicked’s journey from stage to screen.

The premiere was nothing short of spectacular, with the red carpet itself transformed into the iconic Yellow Brick Road. This whimsical detail set the tone for an evening that celebrated the legacy of Wicked while introducing it to a new generation. Cast members Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda) captivated onlookers as they stepped onto the carpet, embodying the magic of their characters in stunning couture inspired by the fantastical world of Oz. They were joined by co-stars Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero), Jeff Goldblum (The Wizard), and Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible), all of whom brought their signature charisma to the event.

Director Jon M. Chu, celebrated for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, expressed his gratitude to the Australian audience, calling the premiere in the Land Down Under a tribute to Oz’s origins in literature and mythology. He emphasized the importance of honoring the Broadway legacy while adapting the story for the screen, promising audiences an experience that combines spectacle with emotional depth.

Wicked delves into the untold story of the witches of Oz, focusing on the relationship between two young women who are destined for greatness, albeit on opposing sides of morality. Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo, is a misunderstood outcast whose green skin and uncompromising principles lead her on a path of defiance against a corrupt Wizard of Oz. On the other hand, Ariana Grande’s Glinda starts as a privileged and ambitious young woman who struggles to reconcile her own desires with the cost of power and popularity.

The film explores themes of societal judgment, identity, and the fluid nature of good and evil, resonating with contemporary audiences. At its heart is the transformative friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, forged at Shiz University, where their differences initially divide them but ultimately create an unbreakable bond. As their paths diverge, audiences are drawn into a rich narrative that challenges preconceived notions of morality and power.

Universal Pictures and Marc Platt Productions spared no effort in crafting an immersive cinematic experience. From the decision to split the story into two films, allowing for greater character development and world-building, to the construction of elaborate sets at Sky Studios in Elstree, England, the production is a testament to the filmmakers’ commitment to excellence.

Among the standout elements are the practical effects and set designs, including a life-sized Yellow Brick Road, a dazzling Munchkinland adorned with nine million tulips, and the art deco-inspired train The Unlimited One that carries the protagonists to the Emerald City. Jon M. Chu’s vision drew inspiration from cinematic classics like The Truman Show and Pleasantville, blending visual whimsy with thematic depth to depict Oz as both a utopia and a land rife with political and social tensions.

The cast of Wicked features some of the most celebrated talents in Hollywood. Cynthia Erivo’s performance as Elphaba is already being hailed as a career-defining moment, with critics praising her ability to convey vulnerability and strength. Ariana Grande, known for her powerhouse vocals, brings both charm and depth to Glinda, capturing the complexity of a character often perceived as purely lighthearted.

The supporting cast, including Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, and Peter Dinklage, enriches the narrative with their compelling performances. Marissa Bode and Ethan Slater round out the ensemble, each contributing to the film’s emotional and narrative layers.

The music of Wicked is another of its crowning achievements. Stephen Schwartz, the composer of the original Broadway score, returns to orchestrate an 80-piece orchestra that expands upon the iconic songs while introducing new musical numbers to enhance the storytelling. Fans can look forward to favorites like Defying Gravity, Popular, and For Good, performed live on set to capture the raw emotion of the cast’s vocals.

Early reactions from the Sydney premiere have been overwhelmingly positive. Critics and industry insiders have praised the film’s ability to balance breathtaking visuals with a deeply human story. The chemistry between Erivo and Grande has been singled out as a highlight, along with the film’s faithful yet innovative adaptation of the source material. Fans have also noted the film’s resonance with contemporary themes, drawing parallels between the Land of Oz and modern social issues.

As Wicked: Part I prepares for its U.S. release on November 22, 2024, the anticipation for its sequel, slated for November 21, 2025, continues to grow. Universal Pictures has also launched an ambitious marketing campaign, including immersive experiences and interactive content, ensuring that the magic of Oz reaches audiences far and wide.

With its blend of spectacle, heart, and innovation, Wicked is poised to become a landmark moment in the history of cinematic musicals. The Sydney premiere was not just a celebration of a film but a testament to the enduring legacy of a story that has captivated audiences for decades. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Broadway musical or a newcomer to the world of Oz, Wicked: Part I promises to be an unforgettable experience, leaving audiences spellbound and eager for the next chapter in 2025.

Discover the red carpet interviews just below : 

itw Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande

itw Jeff Goldblum

itw Jonathan Bailey

itw Marissa Bode

itw Ethan Slater

You can discover the official photos in our Flickr page

Synopsis :
Wicked follows the path of the legendary witches of the World of Oz. Elphaba, a young woman misunderstood because of the unusual color of her green skin, doesn't even suspect the extent of her powers. At her side is Glinda, who, as popular as she is privileged, still doesn't know the true nature of her heart. Their meeting at the University of Shiz, in the fantastic world of Oz, marks the beginning of an unlikely but profound friendship. However, their relationship with The Wizard of Oz is to put a strain on this friendship and see their paths drift apart. While Glinda, thirsting for popularity, allows herself to be seduced by power, Elphaba's determination to remain true to herself and to those around her will have consequences as unfortunate as they are unexpected. Their extraordinary adventures in the Land of Oz will ultimately lead them to fulfill their destinies, becoming respectively the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West.

Wicked
Directed by Jon M. Chu
Written by Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox
Based on Wicked by Stephen Schwartz, Winnie Holzman, Wicked by Gregory Maguire
Produced by Marc Platt, David Stone
Starring  Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum
Cinematography : Alice Brooks
Edited by Myron Kerstein
Music by John Powell, Stephen Schwartz
Production companies : Universal Pictures, Marc Platt Productions,
Distributed by Universal Pictures
Release dates : November 3, 2024 (State Theatre), November 22, 2024 (United States)
Running time : 160 minutes

Photos : Getty Images / Universal Pictures