This list includes spoilers for Wicked Part II.Since its release, Wicked has rapidly ascended to become one of the most beloved musical films globally, sparking a renewed fascination with both the original stage show and The Wizard of Oz. Although separated by varied source materials, creative interpretations, an 85-year gap between productions, and distinct studio ownerships, these narratives are intricately linked through their characters and events. A certain young girl from Kansas plays a crucial role in both tales, albeit only appearing in silhouette in both the Wicked stage adaptation and the initial film. Nevertheless, the other iconic characters from the original story will take on pivotal roles in the future, all of whom we are introduced to in the first installment of the movie.

While Wicked focuses on the origins of both the Wicked Witch of the West (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda the Good Witch (Ariana Grande-Butera), it also illuminates the backstories of other notable inhabitants of Oz. Since the initial Wicked film only adapts the first act of the stage musical, we receive mere glimpses and references, but in the forthcoming sequel, audiences will be treated to much more comprehensive explorations of these characters’ transformations– and their origins are significantly darker than one might anticipate from a charming musical. Spoilers for the second act of the Wicked musical will follow shortly.

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Wicked

The story of how a green-skinned woman framed by the Wizard of Oz becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. The first of a two-part feature film adaptation of the Broadway musical.

Release Date

November 22, 2024

Cast

Cynthia Erivo , Ariana Grande , Michelle Yeoh , Jeff Goldblum , Jonathan Bailey , Ethan Slater , Marissa Bode , Bowen Yang , Bronwyn James , Keala Settle , Peter Dinklage , Aaron Teoh , Grecia De la Paz , Colin Michael Carmichael , Adam James , Andy Nyman , Courtney Mae-Briggs , Sharon D. Clarke , Jenna Boyd

Runtime

160 Minutes

Character(s)

Elphaba Thropp , Glinda Upland , Madame Morrible , The Wizard , Fiyero Tigelaar , Boq , Nessarose Thropp , Pfannee , ShenShen , Miss Coddle , Doctor Dillamond (voice) , Avaric Tenmeadows , Gilligan , Professor Nikidik , Glinda’s Father , Governor Frexspar Thropp , Melena Thropp , The Midwife

Writers

Gregory Maguire , Winnie Holzman , Dana Fox , L. Frank Baum

Studio

Studio(s)

Marc Platt Productions

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8 Discover the Role of Chistery/Nikko in Oz

Unveiling the Character Portrayal by Robin Guiver

While different names are used in the various adaptations, one particular flying monkey who accompanies the Wicked Witch features prominently in both the 1939 film and the musical. In the original movie, Nikko (Pat Walshe) serves as a generic flying monkey who seems to share a special bond with the Wicked Witch, acting as someone for her to confide in regarding her malevolent plans. However, in the musical and film version of Wicked, Chistery (Robin Guiver) is infused with distinct and recognizable character traits.

As the leader of the Wizard’s (Jeff Goldblum) emerald guard, Chistery is the first fully developed named animal in the film who maintains silence. He displays a polite demeanor towards Elphaba and Glinda, yet appears perplexed by the Wizard’s comment about observing the birds every morning. When Elphaba inadvertently casts a levitation spell from the Grimmerie, Chistery and his fellow monkeys undergo a painful transformation, sprouting large wings from their backs. Initially commanded to attack the woman responsible for their change, the second act of the musical reveals the flying monkeys standing with Elphaba– with Chistery hinting at the possibility of finally finding his voice.

7 Explore the Character of Brr/The Cowardly Lion

Understand the CGI Portrayal of the Cowardly Lion

One of the most cherished companions of Dorothy (Judy Garland) in the iconic story is the Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr). Initially introduced as a fierce, intimidating creature, he quickly reveals his more timid nature. His journey to find courage is a significant theme, as he struggles with his cowardice at the slightest hint of danger, which adds much of the film’s comedic elements. However, in Wicked, we gain insight into the reasons behind his cowardice. Following Doctor Dillamond’s (Peter Dinklage) forced exit, Shiz University’s new history professor, Nikidik (Colin Michael Carmichael), unveils a groundbreaking invention never before seen in Oz: a cage containing a lion cub.

Despite the professor’s claim that the lion seems content to be there, his underlying fear is evident. When the professor asserts that caging the animal will prevent it from learning to speak, Elphaba and Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) promptly liberate him into the enchanted woods of Oz. Although his role in the overarching narrative may not be as prominent as that of Dorothy’s other companions, the backstory of the Lion, referred to as Brr in the Gregory Maguire novels, serves as a poignant reminder of what Elphaba is truly fighting for.

6 Uncover the Story of Nessarose Thropp/The Wicked Witch of the East

Character Exploration: Portrayal by Marissa Bode

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