‘Wicked’ Trailer: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo belt it out
Universal Pictures has unveiled the first full-length trailer for its upcoming two-part musical fantasy film adaptation of the stage musical of the same name by Stephen Schwartz and Holzman, which in turn was based on the 1995 novel of the same name by Gregory Maguire. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the star-studded cast features Ariana Grande as Glinda the Good Witch and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West.
The trailer, which premiered on May 15th, offers a captivating glimpse into the untold story of the extraordinary bond between Glinda and Elphaba, set before the events of “The Wizard of Oz.” Fans are treated to snippets of iconic songs like “Popular” and “Defying Gravity,” showcasing Grande and Erivo’s powerful vocals and on-screen chemistry.
In a featurette titled “Passion Project,” Grande and Erivo expressed their excitement and emotional connection to the roles. Grande, who witnessed the original Broadway cast at age 10, vowed to do justice to Glinda, while Erivo, with tears in her eyes, described the journey as “long and arduous” but deeply rewarding.
Director Jon M. Chu shared his ambitious vision for the film, promising “a magical land of sights and sounds that will astonish, and performances that will lift your spirits and occasionally break your heart.” The trailer showcases the grandeur of Emerald City and the dynamic between Glinda and Elphaba as they navigate their friendship and the challenges that arise.
Wicked was a made on budget of $145 million and financed by Marc Platt and David Stone. The first installment is set to hit theaters on November 27, 2024, with the second part following on December 25, 2025. The film also stars Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Ethan Slater as Boq, and Bowen Yang as Pfannee.
