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Kickin’ with Kyra: ‘Wicked’ was perfectly cast

Singing, dancing, impeccable acting and an intense story of friendship are all components that make “Wicked” so special. The film version of “Wicked” was released Nov. 22, meaning there is a new musical adaptation to reflect on while it breaks box office records. 

Starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the film brings the stage performance to the front of the camera with artistic sets and components of magic. The film is already breaking records with the biggest opening weekend for a Broadway film adaptation and this would not have been possible without its cast. “Wicked” was cast perfectly and each actor captured their character in a way no one else could. 

Starting with the pink and popular Glinda, Grande has dreamt of being in “Wicked” since she was young, and it is easy to see that she was meant for it. Grande brings humor and elegance into the slightly spoiled yet loveable character. Her voice is a huge piece of what makes her so great for a musical role as she is able to hit the high-pitched opera notes and the deeper, solemn notes. Grande’s voice in the song "Popular" is satisfying and she brings her comedic acting talents into it with eccentric yells and facial expressions. 

Altogether, her sense of humor, lovable energy and vocal range make her the best Glinda they could have found. 

Glinda wouldn’t be Glinda without Elphaba. Erivo shines in the spotlight with vocal cords that refuse to stop even when flying on wires in a corset. She truly demonstrates who Elphaba is and the ways she is simply a misunderstood woman. She captured the character as intelligent and is at times nonchalant and unwavering in confidence. 

Her voice is extremely powerful as well and she demonstrated this by singing live with Grande, even when doing stunts. In her version of "Defying Gravity,“ so much emotion can be felt as she exemplifies her voice and message of strength as well as heartache. Erivo portrayed the empowered, resilient Elphaba with her wonderful acting and beautiful voice.

Next, look at the man who basically started it all, The Wizard. Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz is something that needed to happen. His charisma is perfect for the role of a man who convinces a city he is all-powerful when he truly isn’t. His voice is welcoming and soothing as well, even though his singing is limited in the film. He provides a wholesome and kind presence, which transitions into a villain stance well. The powerful Wizard of Oz felt real through Goldblum's enchantment.

Jonathan Bailey knows how to charm (everyone) and sing at the same time. He plays Fiyero, the love interest, but also a man who denies being mindful. In his performance of "Dancing through Life," it is evident Bailey captures everyone in the room, as well as the theater. He has the talent to make everyone love him and truly shows what it means to not understand one's self. He was meant to play the shallow, but not so shallow, prince.

Last, but never least, Madame Morrible is an example of a character who needs to be portrayed as a kind yet powerful woman with hidden schemes. She controls the sky while also being able to gain people’s trust with ease. Michelle Yeoh brought a performance of magic and strength with a hint of wicked intentions. Yeoh is an incredible actress and this role is a perfect example of some of her best work. She exudes confidence and makes her character powerful as ever.

Overall, the film, “Wicked,” was cast in the best way possible with actors that matched their characters like no one else. The vocals, incredible acting skills and powerful story are all components that make “Wicked” one of the greatest films of the year. Glinda, Elphaba, The Wizard and everyone in between are characters that feel incredibly real because the people who portrayed them became them.

Kyra Dapore is a junior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Kyra know by emailing her at kd364521@ohio.edu.

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