Everyone deserves the chance to fly.

Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage (voice), Michelle Yoeh, Jeff Goldblum, Andy Nyman, Courtney Mae-Briggs, Bronwyn James

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ - good

"And I've just had a vision, almost like a prophecy. I know, it sounds truly crazy. And true, the vision's hazy. But I swear, someday there'll be a celebration throughout Oz. That's all to do.. with me!" – Elphaba

Why watch this? It is a spectacular prequel to the endearing Oz story.

Plot Summary: This is the untold story of witches in Oz, focusing on green-skinned Elphaba and popular Galinda's unlikely friendship at Shiz University, their contrasting paths as Elphaba uncovers the Wizard's corruption and seeks to save oppressed animals, and how their choices ultimately lead to Elphaba becoming the feared Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda becomes the good witch.
 

Dad's Preview: If this film doesn't leave a legacy, it's not from lack of hype, advertising and extravagance. The sets, CGI and musical numbers are huge and easy to enjoy. The performance by Cynthia Erivo is superb, as is Ariana Grande's turn at Galinda/Glenda. Frankly their interactions are the strength of the film. What surprised me was how devious and ruthless the Wizard behaves, channeling an authoritarian, plotting his evil take-over. He's not a man to be trusted, and I felt Jeff Goldblum was miscast. It did get very heavy towards the final act, probably to set up the next film. Perhaps it was time to darken the tone of the magical kingdom of Oz, but, call me old-fashioned, I'll never stop missing the old kingdom's sense of hopefulness.

Marc Platt Productions; Universal Pictures