Mattel - Wicked : Mattel Dolls and the Cinematic Event of the Year Unite to Celebrate the Magic of Oz

By Mulder, 25 november 2024

Mattel’s Wicked collection dolls, inspired by the beloved Broadway musical and upcoming cinematic adaptation, have been the center of excitement for fans eager to celebrate the story of Oz. However, a recent packaging misprint has brought unforeseen attention to the line. The dolls, designed to reflect key characters from the Wicked saga, aimed to connect collectors and fans to the enchanting world of the witches of Oz. Yet, an incorrect website link printed on the packaging directed users to a site inappropriate for children, sparking concern among consumers.

Mattel swiftly responded to the error, demonstrating a commitment to both consumer trust and the integrity of their brand. The company has halted further shipments of the dolls and stopped retail sales to update the packaging with the correct website address, ensuring that future buyers receive an error-free product. Collectors who already own these dolls are advised to obscure the misprinted link on packaging and instruction materials, particularly in households with minors. For those who prefer to preserve the packaging for its collectible value, Mattel recommends taking precautions to shield children from exposure to the erroneous URL.

The affected dolls include some of the most iconic figures in the Wicked universe, such as Elphaba, Glinda, and Nessarose, as well as exclusives like the Shiz University dolls of Elphaba and Glinda, and the Madame Morrible and Fiyero dolls available at select retailers. This comprehensive line was designed not only to capture the essence of the beloved characters but also to enhance the excitement for the upcoming Wicked film adaptation. Despite the mishap, the dolls remain a cherished piece of memorabilia, tying together fans’ love for the musical and the new cinematic venture.

The dolls are just one part of the cultural phenomenon surrounding Wicked, which continues to captivate audiences with its complex storytelling and iconic characters. The highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked brings to life the untold story of Elphaba, the misunderstood outcast destined to become the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the ambitious student who evolves into the Good Witch of the North. This story, which redefines the narratives of good and evil, explores themes of identity, power, and friendship, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.

Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his visually stunning work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, Wicked: Part I promises to deliver a cinematic experience that stays true to the heart of the original stage production. The film boasts a star-studded cast led by Academy Award winner Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and global pop sensation Ariana Grande as Glinda. These powerhouse performers bring depth and nuance to their roles, capturing the emotional complexities of their characters’ journeys.

Set to release on November 22, 2024, with its sequel following a year later, the two-part adaptation was a bold choice by Universal Pictures and producer Marc Platt. This decision ensures that every nuance of the story, every cherished song, and every intricate relationship receives the attention it deserves. By splitting the narrative, the filmmakers provide audiences with a more immersive and detailed exploration of the Land of Oz, expanding the beloved tale while introducing fresh perspectives.

The production of Wicked is as ambitious as its narrative. Filmed at the state-of-the-art Sky Studios in Elstree, England, the movie features breathtaking sets that bring the magical world of Oz to life. From the vibrant Yellow Brick Road to the lush fields of Munchkinland adorned with nine million tulips, every detail has been meticulously crafted. Practical effects, like a life-sized art deco-inspired train dubbed “The Unlimited One,” transport viewers into the fantastical universe. These elements, combined with Chu’s visionary direction, create a film that feels both epic in scale and intimate in its emotional resonance.

The cinematic adaptation also introduces new scenes and character arcs, enriching the story without detracting from the core of the musical. By drawing inspiration from films like The Truman Show and Pleasantville, Chu emphasizes the themes of awakening and rebellion that define the story of Wicked. This creative approach ensures that the film remains both a tribute to the original and a groundbreaking work in its own right.

At the heart of Wicked is its music, composed by Stephen Schwartz, whose original Broadway score remains iconic. The cinematic version expands upon this legacy with an 80-piece orchestra and live vocal recordings that add raw emotional power to the performances. Fans can look forward to hearing classic songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular,” along with new compositions that deepen the narrative and provide fresh moments of musical magic.

The cast’s performances promise to be equally memorable. Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is poised to be a defining moment in her career, capturing the character’s strength, vulnerability, and unwavering resolve. Ariana Grande brings a magnetic charm to Glinda, balancing the character’s bubbly exterior with hidden depths. The ensemble cast, including Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, rounds out a stellar lineup that breathes life into the world of Oz.

The Mattel Wicked dolls and the upcoming film adaptation represent a unique synergy between merchandising and storytelling, offering fans multiple ways to engage with the magical world of Oz. The dolls serve as a tangible connection to the story’s iconic characters, allowing fans to celebrate their favorite moments and personalities. Despite the packaging setback, the collection continues to capture the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts, standing as a testament to the enduring appeal of Wicked.

As the release of Wicked: Part I approaches, the excitement surrounding both the film and the dolls is palpable. With its blend of spectacle, heart, and unforgettable music, the movie promises to be a landmark moment in cinematic history. Whether through the Mattel collection or the immersive experience of the film itself, Wicked invites audiences to rediscover the magic of Oz in a way that is both timeless and refreshingly new.

The following Wicked collections dolls are impacted:  
HXT62 Core Doll – Elphaba 
HXT63 Core Doll – Glinda 
HXY36 Core Doll – Nessarose  
JDG10 Shiz Doll – Ephaba (Walmart exclusive) 
JDG11 Shiz Doll – Glinda (Walmart exclusive) 
JDG12 Core Doll – Madame Morrible (Walmart exclusive) 
JDG14 Core Doll – Fiyero (Target exclusive) 
HYM40 Singing Doll – Elphaba (Target exclusive)  
HYM41 Singing Doll – Glinda  
HXY37 Hero Doll – Glinda  
HXY38 Hero Doll – Elphaba 
HXY39 Mattel creations 2-PK DTC 

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