There exists a fictional universe derived from the nostalgic story: “The Wizard of Oz.” In this universe, readers and watchers follow the tale of how Glinda the Good, and the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, came to be. Fans learn how to navigate hardships, friendships, rivalry, and morality through this whimsical, and thought-provoking story.
Last November, Universal Pictures Studio cinematically adapted the long-adored Broadway musical, “Wicked: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz.” This adaptation already has a part one but now an upcoming part two is being released to theaters Nov. 21.
Fans are extremely excited for this release, with some even being able to attend premieres and double features (both movies for the price of one), as well as Wicked themed events that have popped up nationwide.
“I am re-listening to the soundtrack and buying green face paint. I also entered a raffle to win a signed vinyl,” Norah Shadwell (12) said.
Wicked fanatics seem to believe that the cinematic adaptation is extremely satisfactory, at least the first movie. The adaptation as a whole could be a hit or miss, however, fans will determine this when the second part is released.
“I thought the first movie was an amazing adaptation from the musical. I think all the added aspects really contributed to the overall symbolism of the theme and the overall story,” Anna Gilkerson (10) said.
On the topic of the second movie, fans are eagerly awaiting to see some of the key differences between the first movie and the sequel.
“The tone for the second movie is very genuine and bittersweet, compared to the upbeat, fun mood of the first movie,” Gilkerson (10) said.
This sequel is essentially “act two” of the musical. This act is considerably more devastating than the first, but just as complex.
“I am very excited for the sequel because the stage version of act two is very complicated and would benefit from a lengthened and more explained ending,” Shadwell (12) said.
The new songs that will be presented in the sequel are a hot topic among fans. The added songs to the Wicked score include: “Thank Goodness,” “Wonderful,” “As Long as You’re Mine,” “No Good Deed,” “March of the Witch Hunters,” and the finale “For Good”. Long-time fans hope that these songs are just as magnificent in the movie as they are on the stage.
“I hope that the new songs build on the already wonderful score and show off Cynthia and Ariana’s voice,” Shadwell (12) said.
The sequel is expected to surprise new fans and die-hard fans alike. The tone is much darker, tragic and more complex than the first movie, however, critics say that the story is supposed to be emotional and hearty.
“I hope the movie will surprise all fans by making slight changes that impact the mood and dramatics of the story,” Gilkerson (10) said.
