A captivating new featurette for the highly anticipated film Wicked has been unveiled, showcasing the talented Cynthia Erivo as she immerses herself in the iconic role of Elphaba. This sneak peek provides fans with an inside look at her transformation and the extensive preparation involved in embodying this beloved character.

In this engaging video, Erivo, renowned for her remarkable performances in films such as Bad Times at the El Royale, Harriet, and the series Luther: The Fallen Sun, discusses her choice between utilizing computer-generated imagery (CGI) and practical effects. She emphasizes her desire to fully experience the physicality of the character, opting for a hands-on approach that enhances her portrayal.

“I wanted to be able to look at my hands and see green hands. I wanted to look in the mirror and see a green face. I also wanted to see the reactions of other people seeing me as a green person, as opposed to me walking in as myself, because it informed how I performed,” Erivo elaborated in an interview with Empire. This statement underlines her commitment to authenticity in her performance, showcasing her dedication to the craft of acting.

Explore the Exciting Details of the New Wicked Featurette

With Erivo confirming her preference for practical effects over CGI, the newly released featurette—titled A Day In The Life of Cynthia Erivo—offers a fascinating glimpse into her meticulous preparation to portray the green-skinned character. The video captures her journey, including the application of ear prosthetics, vibrant green makeup, the styling of her wig, and the addition of fake freckles, all of which contribute to her stunning transformation into Elphaba.

Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the full clip below (check out more insightful videos):

Staying true to the beloved stage musical created by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, the upcoming film is set to premiere in theaters on November 22, 2024. It will explore the extraordinary friendship between Elphaba (played by Erivo) and Glinda (played by Ariana Grande), bringing to life the themes of acceptance and friendship. The film is directed by Jon M. Chu, who promises a fresh take on this classic tale, with a sequel, Wicked Part Two, already planned for release in 2025.

In addition to Erivo and Grande, the cast features Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum as the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Bowen Yang as Pfannee of Phan Hall, Ethan Slater as Boq Woodsman, Marissa Bode as Nessarose Thropp, Bronwyn James as ShenShen, Andy Nyman as Frexspar Thropp, Courtney-Mae Briggs as Melena Thropp, and Keala Settle as Miss Coddle, among many other talented performers.