The highly anticipated “Wicked: Part 1” has finally arrived, and one of the burning questions on everyone’s mind is: How Long Is Wicked Movie? For those eager to immerse themselves in the fantastical world of Oz and the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda, the runtime is a substantial 2 hours and 40 minutes. However, it’s crucial to note that this is just the first installment of a two-part cinematic journey. While the marketing might not have initially emphasized it, “Wicked: Part 1” only covers the initial chapters in the witches’ intertwined destinies.
The studio’s decision to release the film as “Part 1” likely stems from a desire to manage audience expectations. Imagine the frustration if viewers anticipated a complete narrative arc only to find themselves abruptly cut off halfway through the saga of the witches of Oz. This isn’t the first time audiences have encountered such cinematic divisions. The “Lord of the Rings” trilogy famously split J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic tale into three films, a structure that, while ultimately successful, initially caused some bewilderment. Recalling the experience of seeing “The Fellowship of the Ring” and realizing the story was far from over, one can understand the potential for audience reaction if “Wicked” hadn’t been clearly presented as the first part of a larger story.
Even with the “Part 1” designation clearly stated, a runtime of 2 hours and 40 minutes for just half the story might still raise eyebrows. Is such a length justified for the first part of the “Wicked” saga? To put this into perspective, the Broadway musical version of “Wicked” clocks in at approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Having attended the Broadway show, many agree that while enchanting, there were moments where the pacing could have been tightened. Some songs, while pleasant, didn’t feel entirely essential to the narrative’s progression.
Therefore, approaching “Wicked: Part 1,” skepticism about justifying its extended runtime was understandable. Could the movie truly hold audience attention for nearly three hours while only telling half the story? Would it avoid the pacing issues sometimes felt in the stage production?
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However, any initial doubts were swiftly dispelled. “Wicked: Part 1” proves to be utterly captivating. Not a single moment feels wasted or drags. Even the slower, more melancholic musical numbers are visually stunning, enhancing the storytelling rather than hindering it. Director Jon M. Chu, known for the visually dynamic “Crazy Rich Asians,” demonstrates his mastery once again. His direction ensures that “Wicked: Part 1” is not just a movie, but an immersive experience. The film is so engaging that the desire to rewatch it immediately after the credits roll is overwhelming.
The film’s reported $145 million budget is clearly visible on screen. The sets are breathtakingly detailed, most notably the 9 million tulips that bring the land of Oz to vibrant life. Every element of the production design contributes to a sense of complete immersion in this fantastical world.
The performances are equally impressive. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo deliver powerhouse performances, silencing any prior doubts about their casting. Oscar buzz is already building, and rightfully so. The entire cast shines, and any minor vocal differences from the Broadway cast are easily overlooked in the sheer enjoyment of their cinematic interpretations.
Leaving the theater, the feeling is one of wanting more. “Wicked: Part 1” leaves you craving the continuation of the story. This raises the question: should the filmmakers have combined both parts into one epic, extended film? Many of the most iconic songs and pivotal plot points reside in this first half. Reflecting on the Broadway experience, the latter part of the musical felt less impactful, leading to speculation about whether the second movie will maintain the same level of engagement.
“Wicked” is projected to be a box office sensation, potentially earning over $100 million in its opening weekend. From a financial perspective, splitting the story into two films is a sound strategy. Doubling the potential box office revenue is undoubtedly appealing.
However, concerns linger about whether “Wicked: Part 2” can live up to the high bar set by its predecessor. Will audiences feel that the remaining story justifies a second film? There’s a risk of the second part feeling less substantial, leading to potential disappointment.
Yet, just as initial skepticism about “Part 1” proved unfounded, perhaps concerns about “Part 2” will also be misplaced. Hope remains high that the second installment will be equally enchanting and captivating.
Even if “Wicked: Part 2” doesn’t fully recapture the magic, “Wicked: Part 1” stands alone as a thrilling and deeply satisfying cinematic achievement. It’s a film that demands to be seen again, and its 2 hours and 40 minutes runtime flies by in a whirlwind of music, magic, and masterful storytelling.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande alongside director Jon M. Chu on the set of “Wicked,” showcasing the collaborative spirit behind the film.
“Wicked: Part 1″ is rated PG for “some scary action, thematic material and brief suggestive material.”
