In the world of Oz, the Emerald City might still stand tall, but its future hangs in the balance. Wicked: Son of a Witch takes us deeper into the land of magic, legacy, and haunting memories, continuing the saga of a world forever changed by the rebellion of a green-skinned witch. The film weaves together political turmoil, personal struggles, and a quest for redemption that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
The heart of the film lies in Ariana Grande’s mesmerizing portrayal of Glinda the Good, who now finds herself exiled from the kingdom she once ruled. As a queen in exile, Glinda’s grief and isolation become palpable, with Grande capturing the fragility of a once-powerful figure reduced to navigating the weight of public opinion and personal guilt. Her performance, filled with emotional depth and subtlety, showcases the inner conflict that defines Glinda’s character — a woman who must come to terms with her past choices while facing a future full of uncertainty.
Enter Liir, played by Tom Holland, whose brooding presence and tragic backstory create an intriguing mystery. As a possible son of Elphaba and Fiyero, Liir carries the bloodline of the infamous Wicked Witch, a shadow that looms large over both him and the narrative. Holland brings an intensity and complexity to the role, making Liir a character that embodies the legacy of Oz’s past while grappling with his own uncertain identity.
The political landscape of Oz has become a battleground, torn apart by the rise of a fanatical religious order bent on eradicating magic itself. The threat of annihilation looms over the once-thriving kingdom, and the magic that has always defined Oz faces its darkest hour. Against this backdrop, Glinda must summon the courage to confront not only the growing unrest but also the ghosts of her past, particularly that of Elphaba, the woman she once called a friend.
Cynthia Erivo’s return as Elphaba’s ghost is nothing short of electrifying. Her haunting performance sends chills down the spine, delivering a powerful, ethereal presence that lingers throughout the film. The emotional weight of Elphaba’s memory plays a pivotal role in Glinda’s journey, and Erivo’s portrayal adds layers of complexity to the film’s exploration of guilt, love, and the persistence of a past that refuses to fade.
The visual storytelling in Wicked: Son of a Witch is as grand as it is intimate. The sweeping shots of the decaying Emerald City, juxtaposed with the haunting beauty of the natural landscapes, mirror the emotional turmoil and decay of the characters’ lives. The film’s cinematography weaves a dreamlike atmosphere that keeps audiences tethered to the story, enhancing the epic scale of the narrative while never losing sight of the deeply personal stakes at hand.
The narrative expertly balances the political intrigue with the emotional depth of its characters. Glinda’s struggle is not just with the crumbling kingdom of Oz but also with her own sense of guilt and responsibility. As the pressure mounts, the film delves into the complexities of power — both its seductive pull and its corrupting force. Glinda must decide whether to sacrifice her own beliefs for the sake of Oz’s survival or to defy everything she once held dear.
In the heart of the film is the theme of legacy — both the burdens it imposes and the freedom it can offer. Glinda must reckon with the legacy of her mentor, Elphaba, while Liir must confront the weight of his own bloodline. Their paths cross in ways that challenge everything they thought they knew about their pasts and themselves, leading to moments of revelation that are as profound as they are heartbreaking.
The film’s score, composed by the brilliant Stephen Schwartz, enhances the emotional depth of the story, with haunting melodies that echo throughout the film. The music mirrors the narrative’s tone — both grand and intimate, sweeping and personal. Each note feels purposeful, adding an additional layer of complexity to the film’s exploration of power, memory, and redemption.
The chemistry between the cast is undeniable, particularly the dynamic between Grande and Holland. Their characters’ contrasting worlds — Glinda’s regal yet broken state and Liir’s rebellious, uncertain future — create a compelling narrative that drives the emotional heart of the film. Their relationship is one of the film’s most engaging aspects, as they both try to understand their roles in a world that no longer seems to have room for them.
At its core, Wicked: Son of a Witch is a tale about the ghosts we carry and the legacies we leave behind. It’s a meditation on memory, defiance, and the ways in which our pasts shape our futures. As Glinda faces her darkest fears and confronts the specter of Elphaba, she must come to terms with the fact that redemption is not a destination but a journey — one that requires sacrifice, strength, and the courage to face the things we fear most.
In conclusion, Wicked: Son of a Witch is a breathtaking continuation of the Wicked saga that expertly blends political intrigue with profound emotional depth. Ariana Grande’s performance is a standout, capturing the vulnerability of a woman broken by the weight of her past while hinting at the hope of a brighter future. With haunting performances, stunning visuals, and a story that grips the heart, this film is a must-watch for fans of Oz and those seeking a deeply emotional and captivating cinematic experience.
Verdict: 10/10 — A mesmerizing, haunting continuation that explores power, memory, and redemption. This film is both a tribute to its roots and a bold step forward into new, darker territory.
Watch movie:
*Content is hosted on a partner site.
