Released in theaters on December 4, 2024, Wicked is a fantastic musical directed by Jon M. Chu and penned by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox. It’s an adaptation of the Broadway musical based on Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, itself set in the world of L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz. Led by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, alongside Jonathan Bailey, this first installment will be available on Netflix starting from March 4, 2026.
Before Dorothy arrives in Oz, Elphaba spends her childhood on the fringes, misunderstood because of her green skin and a fierce personality that sets her apart. At Shiz University, she encounters Glinda, a confident, privileged student whose bubbly exterior masks her own journey of self-discovery. Their uneasy coexistence, initially fraught with tension, gradually transforms into an unexpected friendship—built on alliances, missteps, and a mutual curiosity that goes beyond surface appearances.
As they journey through their education, the two young women become caught up in the political and symbolic upheavals of Oz. Their encounter with the Wizard serves as a turning point: Glinda’s desire for recognition and Elphaba’s unwavering commitment to her principles begin to fracture their bond. Without revealing key plot twists, the story tracks the emergence of an inner rift that reshapes their destinies and lays the groundwork for the legend of the two witches.
Wicked is part of a legacy of adaptations that have shaped the Oz universe throughout the 20th century and beyond: from Baum’s classic novel (1900) to the lasting impact of the 1939 film, along with more recent reinterpretations. Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel offers a fresh perspective on this world by exploring its darker corners, while the Broadway musical that debuted in 2003 (with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz) transformed this tale into a cultural phenomenon. Director Jon M. Chu’s film takes a two-part approach, with the second installment slated for late 2025, aiming to expand the story arc and elevate the spectacle.
The production prioritized real sets whenever possible: grand-scale soundstages, constructed outdoor locations, and filming techniques designed to minimize the reliance on green screens. Makeup and hairstyling played a crucial role, especially in achieving Elphaba’s distinctive hue, which was carefully adjusted after numerous tests to ensure it looked consistent under different lighting conditions. Another notable decision was the live recording of songs on set for certain scenes, a more demanding approach that enhances the authentic “live” performance feel typical of the genre.
In its tone, the film embraces the conventions of modern musical cinema: choreographed numbers, upfront emotion, contrasts between comedy and drama, and a fantastical world depicted as both a political space and a fairy-tale setting. Themes of friendship, difference, and the shaping of collective storytelling are woven into its core. Fans of musicals and film adaptations will find this project crafted as a true event, although its length may require a bit more time and attention, especially for family viewing.
Wicked – Coming to theaters in 2024
Release date: December 4, 2024
Streaming on Netflix from March 4, 2026
Musical, Fantasy | Duration: 2h40
Directed by Jon M. Chu | Starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey
Original title: Wicked
Country: United States
By placing Elphaba and Glinda at the heart of the story, Wicked offers an origin story that blends spectacle, heartfelt storytelling, and popular mythology. This first installment focuses on developing the characters and the world of Oz, setting the stage for a planned duology that will continue their journey.
For those looking to explore further, check out our curated list of the Netflix highlights for March, our guide to latest streaming releases across all platforms, and today's top picks in what to watch today in streaming.
