Fanciful drama

When L Frank Baum wrote the children’s fantasy novel ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ in 1900, did he have any inkling that his fantasy story and memorable characters would be inspiring films and theatre more than 100 years later?

Shiz University’s dean of sorcery studies, Madam Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), has decided to mentor Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), who she believes has special powers. She assigns her a roommate in Galinda Upland (Ariana Grande), who is also a first-year student, is privileged, spoiled, shallow and cares a great deal about being the most popular student in the school.

Galinda and Elphaba clash at first, but eventually develop a mutual respect for each other. Both have a crush on a dashing but vain student, Fiyaro (Jonathan Bailey), but Fiyaro is attracted to Galinda. Munchkin Boq (Ethan Slater), who has a crush on Galinda, is persuaded to show some love to Nessarose, Elphaba’s wheelchair-bound sister. The Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum) appears much after halftime to play trigger for all the action that ensues.

The film has some substance, too. The themes highlighted in the narrative cover socially-relevant current issues. Not surprising, given what the Broadway musical showcases. The story talks about bullying and racism and other darker issues without digressing from the song, dance, fun and frolic. The songs, even though they dazzle in visual terms, are not memorable. ‘Wicked’ does manage to get its styling right. The production design is faultless. The colour palette, the visuals, the costuming, the hairstyles, all make it a visual feast.

Paul Tazewell’s costumes, their feathers, tulles and sparkles accentuate the characters and performances. Nathan Crowley designs an Oz that is vibrant, colourful and intriguing. Cinematographer Alice Brooks’ camera moves gracefully while enhancing every moment.

Grande and Erivo generate an enchanting chemistry when they spar musically. Grande brings her own flavour of quirkiness, flightiness and ridiculousness to Glinda. She sings her songs with heart and even when she is paired with Erivo on song, they make it count.

Director Chu (‘Step Up’, ‘Crazy Rich Asians’) delivers an invigorating cinematic experience by blending art, bling and zing in perfect measure. ‘Wicked’ ports us back to the time when musicals dominated cinema.

And that’s not a bad thing!