The Deadline's Read the Screenplay series takes center stage once again with Universal's blockbuster musical movie, Wicked. Directed by Jon M. Chu, this film is adapted from Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel, delving into the untold stories of the witches of Oz before Dorothy's arrival. The screenplay was crafted by Winnie Holzman, the original Broadway musical book writer, and Dana Fox, the co-scribe of Cruella.

Introduction to the Wicked Phenomenon

In 2003, Wicked made its debut on Broadway, starring Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel. It earned a remarkable 10 Tony nominations, including Best Musical, and emerged victorious with three awards. This musical has achieved global success, grossing approximately $6 billion worldwide and becoming a sensation in countries like Japan, Korea, Singapore, Australia, and the UK.The film version, which opened on November 22 after a long journey to the screen, has set numerous records. It holds the title for the highest-grossing movie based on a Broadway musical in domestic box office history, with $335.5 million in the US and Canada so far. Worldwide, it has amassed $459 million, second only to Mamma Mia! and continues to perform strongly.

The Origin Story of the Witches of Oz

Wicked is the first of two planned movie chapters, focusing on the origin story of the witches of Oz. Cynthia Erivo portrays Elphaba, a young woman with green skin who is misunderstood but yet to discover her true power. Ariana Grande plays Glinda, a popular young woman on a journey of self-discovery. The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and form an unlikely yet profound friendship. After encountering the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship faces a crossroads, and their lives take different paths. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will lead them to fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.On the surface, it seems to be the story of how Elphaba became the Wicked Witch and Galinda became Glinda the Good. However, beneath the surface, it delves into darker themes and deeper truths. It is also a story about the quiet rise of a fascist movement that aims to demonize the intelligent, speaking Animals of Oz, blaming them for society's problems and taking away their voices.

The Cast and Their Roles

The film features an impressive cast. Michelle Yeoh portrays Shiz University's headmistress Madame Morrible, adding depth and mystery to the story. Jonathan Bailey plays Fiyero, bringing a certain charm to his character. Ethan Slater takes on the role of Boq, while Marissa Bode makes her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba's favored sister. Jeff Goldblum shines as the Wizard, adding his unique flair to the production.

The Creative Team and Their Vision

To bring the musical to the big screen, producer Marc Platt reunited with Winnie Holzman and original composer-lyricist Stephen Schwartz. Schwartz emphasizes that each character in the show is keeping a secret, both from the world and sometimes from themselves. This is what the show is all about - revealing the hidden aspects. Holzman states that this film adaptation was a golden opportunity to revisit the world and explore it more deeply with nuance. When they got the green light for two films, they knew they could keep what they loved and expand on key moments, allowing the story to blossom into something new.Fox, who has written several successful films, also contributed to the Wicked script. She is currently working on a global heist comedy and has already achieved a significant deal with Netflix.In conclusion, Wicked is a captivating story that combines musical magic with deep themes and a talented cast. It has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema and continues to enchant audiences.