Why ‘Wicked’ Should Have Stayed as One Movie

Waren Burn

2 min read

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26-11-2024

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The highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway hit Wicked has finally arrived, splitting the story across two movies. While the decision to extend the narrative might seem logical given the source material's richness, I argue that condensing the story into a single film would have served the narrative and audience better. The two-part approach, while financially lucrative, ultimately dilutes the impact of this powerful tale.

The Problem with Part Two: Diminished Impact

The central issue with splitting Wicked lies in the inherent nature of its plot. The story hinges on the evolving relationship between Elphaba and Galinda, their parallel journeys of self-discovery, and their eventual complex, ambivalent friendship. This intricate dynamic, crucial to the musical's success, suffers from the fracturing. The pacing in Part Two feels rushed, sacrificing character development and emotional depth in favor of plot progression. The already complicated themes of prejudice, power, and morality become less potent when spread thin across two films, potentially losing audience engagement.

Lost Nuances, Lost Magic

The original stage production, despite its length, maintained a cohesive and compelling narrative arc. It allowed for exploration of the characters' internal struggles and the subtleties of their interactions. This intricate tapestry of emotions and motivations is lost in the division. The theatrical experience of Wicked is, in part, its ability to cultivate empathy for both Elphaba and Galinda, even when their actions are morally questionable. The two-part cinematic adaptation risks simplifying these complexities, thereby diminishing the emotional impact.

The Power of a Single Narrative Arc

A single film adaptation could have streamlined the story, focusing on the most impactful moments while still capturing the essence of the musical. Careful editing and pacing could have maintained the emotional core of the story without sacrificing the powerful themes. This approach would have resulted in a more satisfying and complete cinematic experience, better reflecting the emotional resonance of the original stage production.

A Missed Opportunity for Cinematic Excellence

By choosing to split Wicked, filmmakers missed an opportunity to create a truly iconic and unforgettable film. While the individual parts might be visually stunning and entertaining, the fragmented storytelling undermines the overall impact. A singular, well-crafted film could have achieved greater critical acclaim and audience satisfaction, solidifying Wicked's place in cinematic history as a powerful and moving adaptation.

Conclusion: A Case for Conciseness

In conclusion, the decision to split Wicked into two films, while seemingly commercially advantageous, ultimately harms the narrative integrity and emotional resonance of this beloved story. A single, well-structured film could have captured the essence of Wicked's power, allowing for deeper exploration of its complex themes and characters, and ultimately providing a more satisfying cinematic experience for audiences. The current two-part approach ultimately diminishes the impact of a truly powerful story.