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    Stellar Performances Make ‘Wicked’ Sing Past Shortcomings – The Cinematic Schematic

    December 4, 2024
    Wicked: Part 1
    https://media.blubrry.com/thecinematicschematic/www.thecinematropolis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24-044-Wicked-Review_Final.mp3

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    It’s time to dust off and tap those ruby slippers! In this episode of The Cinematic Schematic, we conclude the Thanksgiving 2024 “Glicked” double feature with a review of Wicked: Part 1.

    Wicked (2024) is part 1 of the two-part film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical. Part 2 is scheduled to be released on November 21st, 2025. Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians), the film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp, Ariana Grande-Butera as Galinda Upland, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

    With an estimated budget of $150 million before marketing, it’s a good thing the film has been a huge box-office hit. But does “Part 1” deliver on the hype of the Broadway show?

    Ozian Film Critics Unite

    Jo Light comes hot off a recent interview with Kristin Chenoweth (Galinda herself) to join hosts Caleb Masters and Laron Chapman for a review of the beloved musical prequel.


    Left to right: Jo Light, Laron Chapman, and Caleb Masters

    Ice-Breaker Question

    Time Stamp: 3:17

    Icebreaker question: What popular movie series would you like to get a soapy prequel entry?

    We kick the conversation off by discussing another story or franchise that deserves its soapy entry.


    Wicked: The Musical (2003)

    Time Stamp: 14:00

    Before breaking down the movie, each host shares their experience with the Tony Award-winning musical. The show has been one of the biggest in musical history. In 2016, Wicked surpassed $1 billion in total Broadway revenue, joining The Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King as the only Broadway shows to do so.


    Spoiler-Free Review

    Time Stamp: 26:20

    In our review discussion, we cover:

    • Our overall thoughts on Wicked: Part 1
    • The lead performances from Ariana Grande as Galinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp
    • Director Jon Chu’s adaptation choices from the musical
    • The film’s chances at the 2025 Oscars

    Spoiler-Filled Discussion

    Time Stamp: 1:06:12

    • Witchy Origin Story: When best friends become enemies
    • Is Oz a fascist?
    • Is Hollywood embarrassed about musical film adaptations?

    Special Guest

    Jo Light

    Contributor at No Film School, Final Draft


    About Wicked: Part 1

    According to IMDB, Wicked: Part 1 is described as:

    Elphaba, a misunderstood young woman because of her green skin, and Glinda, a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads.



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    Hear all this and more of our past and future episodes by subscribing to The Cinematic Schematic on your preferred podcast app and leaving us a rating on Apple Podcasts!

    Email Us: thecinematropolis@gmail.com

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    Ariana GrandeCynthia ErivoJon M. ChuThe Cinematic SchematicThe Wizard of OzWicked
    Caleb Masters
    Caleb Masters is a film critic, podcast host, and producer with more than fourteen years of experience in media and film criticism, fueled by a lifelong love of pop culture and a passion for media production. As editor-in-chief of The Cinematropolis, he oversees the site’s editorial direction while hosting and producing the podcast The Cinematic Schematic, where he reviews new releases, interviews filmmakers, and explores other prominent voices in entertainment alongside co-host Laron Chapman. He previously served as president of the Oklahoma Film Critics Circle (OFCC) and currently lives in Seattle, Washington with his wife and three dogs. Follow him on Letterboxd or Instagram @CMastersTalk
    • ‘Gladiator II’ is a Middling Remix Saved by Denzel – The Cinematic Schematic

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