With its soaring music and heartfelt storytelling, “Wicked” casts more than a spell – it sparks a conversation about identity, acceptance, friendship, and most of all, self-love. The Broadway-musical adaptation film invited audiences to look beyond its breathtaking visuals and magical setting to uncover a message about what it truly means to be human. 

“Wicked” was one of the most anticipated film adaptations of 2024 and had very high expectations from fans of the beloved Broadway musical. Its release sparked plenty of conversation. While some viewers praised its stunning visuals and powerful performances, others felt it didn’t fully capture the magic of the stage version. 

Despite the mixed reviews, “Wicked” left a lasting impression. For many, it was more than just a cinematic retelling; it was a story that gave feelings of hope, and the belief that being different can be its own kind of strength. “It was all just… amazing. Something that I think most everyone will be able to connect with,” said reviewer hensleylaney on IMDb.

Often we experience the pressures of society to conform to be able to gain acceptance – the idea that in order to be accepted you have to hide who you truly are. Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erivo, showed us otherwise with her green skin being a symbolism of every part of ourselves that others may fail to understand or accept. 

Elphaba’s journey of isolation, resilience, and eventual empowerment spoke to anyone who has ever felt different or out of place in our modern society as she managed to rise above the labels placed on her. “Wicked” reminded audiences that true belonging does not begin with trying to fit in, but truly embracing who you already are.

The friendship of Elphaba and Glinda (played by Ariana Grande), reflected the film’s message of acceptance and growth. Glinda, who was once driven by popular and social expectations, learned to look beyond appearances and understood Elphaba’s kindness and integrity. 

Together, they showed that true friendship isn’t about having status or being similar, but about empathy and having respect for one another. Through their story, audiences were reminded that understanding others often begins with opening your heart, and that at times, the people who challenge us the most are the ones who help us grow. 

The film proved that even with differing opinions, it definitely succeeded in sparking emotion and conversation – reminding audiences that the true essence of “Wicked” has always been about staying true to oneself. Whether viewers left the theater inspired by Elphaba’s defiance or Glinda’s growth, the message is clear: it’s okay to be different.

Beyond its emotional impact, “Wicked” also became one of the top grossing film adaptations of a Broadway musical as it grossed more than $750 million worldwide. It received a total of 322 nominations and 125 wins, with two of those wins being at the Oscars for best costume design and production design, according to Billboard and IMDb.

And the story isn’t over yet. Fans can look forward to the highly anticipated sequel, “Wicked: For Good”, set to hit the theaters on Nov. 21, 2025, to continue the message of self-love, friendship, and self-discovery that made “Wicked” much more than just a movie.