Oliver Stone—the celebrated director behind cinematic classics like Platoon and JFK—is no stranger to making bold proclamations. Yet his latest accolade has caught Hollywood's attention: Stone has dubbed John M. Chu's Wicked the best film of the year. With a career built on exploring the complexities of human nature and power, Stone's admiration for a musical—a genre rarely associated with his oeuvre—is both surprising and intriguing.
A Director's Perspective
Stone's enthusiasm for Wicked lies in its unique blend of “sensuality and intelligence,” a combination he considers rare in Hollywood's recent output. Speaking candidly about Chu's direction, Stone remarked, “It's amazing that he pulled it off with a Hollywood studio.” Such praise from a filmmaker known for his uncompromising vision signals that Wicked is more than just another musical; it's a cinematic achievement.
Stone also highlighted the performances of the film's leads, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Calling Grande “a marvel of cuteness with sparkly eyes,” Stone was captivated by her embodiment of Glinda, the Good Witch. Meanwhile, Erivo's portrayal of Elphaba—the so-called “Evil Witch”—was described as “deeply moving,” bringing a level of complexity and gravitas to a character traditionally shrouded in villainy.
Hollywood's Endorsement
Stone isn't alone in his adulation. Hollywood heavyweights like Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, and Adam McKay have also praised Wicked. McKay's declaration that the film is so “radical” it could face cultural backlash within “3-5 years” underscores its bold thematic undertones. This collective endorsement has elevated Wicked from a highly anticipated release to a cultural touchstone.
The Craft of Wicked
Directed by John M. Chu, known for his visually stunning work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, Wicked adapts the beloved Broadway musical with cinematic flair. The story, a reimagining of L. Frank Baum's The Wizard of Oz, explores the unlikely friendship between Elphaba and Glinda while delving into themes of identity, prejudice, and societal expectations.
Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba captivates with raw emotion and vulnerability, transforming the “Wicked Witch” into a multi-dimensional figure wrestling with moral ambiguity. Ariana Grande's Glinda, by contrast, is an effervescent force of charm and wit, making the duo's chemistry both heartwarming and complex.
Personal Impressions
Watching Wicked feels like stepping into a technicolor dreamscape where every frame bursts with imagination. Chu's direction is both ambitious and assured, delivering spectacle without sacrificing substance. Erivo's haunting rendition of “Defying Gravity” left me breathless, a moment of pure cinematic transcendence. Meanwhile, Grande's comedic timing and heartfelt sincerity bring surprising depth to her character. The film's visuals—a kaleidoscope of emeralds and pastels—create a world as enchanting as its narrative.
What struck me most, however, was how Wicked weaves contemporary issues into its fantastical setting. Questions of morality, otherness, and power resonate deeply, offering a poignant reflection of our times. It's a film that dares to dream and dares us to rethink our perceptions.
Do you agree with Oliver Stone's assessment of Wicked? Could this be the film that reshapes the modern musical? Share your thoughts below!
