Photo by Philip Cheung for The New York Times

The film adaptation of the loved Broadway musical Wicked premiered on November 22, 2024, to critical acclaim and massive box office success. The highly anticipated movie captivated audiences worldwide, grossing over $700 million. With breathtaking visuals, powerful performances, and the timeless story of Elphaba and Glinda, Wicked became one of the most outstanding films of the year. The National Board of Review and the American Film Institute recognized Wicked as one of the best films of 2024.

Based on Gregory Maguire's novel, Wicked remakes the world of Oz, telling the story of Elphaba, the misunderstood, green-skinned girl who eventually becomes the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the popular and glamorous witch. The film stayed true to the Broadway musical while adding stunning cinematography and CGI, making the magical world of Oz come to life in a way it never had.

At the 97th Academy Awards (Oscars) on March 2, 2025, Wicked was a big competitor by earning ten nominations. These included Best Picture, Best Actress for Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba), Best Supporting Actress for Ariana Grande (Glinda), Best Director for Jon M. Chu, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Song for "The Wizard and I," Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, Best Cinematography, and Best Sound. The film’s impressive production, musical numbers, and attention to detail received big praise, with critics applauding its transition from stage to screen.

Even though Wicked didn't take home the biggest prizes, it still had a successful night, winning two Oscars: Best Costume Design for Paul Tazewell, and Best Production Design for Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales. The film’s vibrant and intricate costumes beautifully captured Oz, while its immersive production design paid homage to the Broadway classic. Despite its strong showing, Wicked lost Best Picture to Anora, Best Actress to Mikey Madison (Anora), and Best Supporting Actress to Zoel Saldaña (Emilia Perez). Jon M. Chu lost Best Director to Sean Baker (Anora), and Camille, Karla Sofía Gascón, and Zoe Saldaña´s El Mal from Emilia Perez beat The Wizard and I for Best Original Song.

Even though it didn’t take over the awards, Wicked still stole the show with its performances. Cynthia Erivo delivered a live rendition of "Defying Gravity," earning a well-deserved standing ovation. Ariana Grande also took the stage with a bright performance of "Popular," bringing her signature charm and powerful vocals to the ceremony.

Beyond awards season, Wicked has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, bringing back interest in musical adaptations and introducing a new generation to its story. Erivo and Grande’s performances were widely celebrated, with "Defying Gravity" becoming one of the film’s most iconic moments, and Grande’s take on "Popular" adding warmth to Glinda’s character.

As fans celebrate Wicked's Oscar success, excitement builds for the sequel, Wicked: For Good, which is set to be released on November 21, 2025. The second movie promises to dive deeper into Elphaba and Glinda’s journey, delivering even more intensity well- honored, Wicked has secured its place in cinematic history and continues to enchant audiences around the world.

'Wicked' Everett Collection/Universal Pictures