MovieTalk: Wicked

So I finally saw the movie “Wicked.”

When I tell you that Cynthia Erivo sang like the rent was due I mean just that. Every time it was more than just a performance she brought the words to life and you could see that she was feeling and experiencing those emotions authentically. I loved her acting. She brought a fresh take to Elphaba. A smart, cute, sweet pure spirit that was beautiful to watch on screen.

Now I’m gonna say this. I will not speak on it too much because I don’t personal know the parties involved or what really happened but I almost didn’t go see it because of it…ie the Ariana and Ethan Slater drama. It sucked for me to even hear that any of this happened because I’ve been watching Ariana since she started on Nickelodeon and to see this string of events just sucks. Ariana did great with her acting and vocal work. I wasn’t surprised she’s been doing broadway since she was a kid so I knew she would get the vocal technique down and give a stellar performance. I just would have rooted for her more had it not been for this scandal. I feel like it almost overshadowed the brilliance of this movie. I’m glad that I still watched to support the story, the other actors, and see the world they created because it was quite breathtaking.

I definitely cried a few times watching the film. I related to Elphaba and there were definitely powerful moments on film where it was undeniable that Erivo was pulling emotions from a familiar place and it allowed us as the viewer to experience those emotions with her; to once again understand how it feels to be an outsider, misunderstood, and unaccepted and having to dance alone and letting a tear fall to your surprise that the most unexpected person would actually join you.

I watched this film at a time when I needed it the most. I needed a reminder to never forget the magic that I possess inside of myself and to remember the journey that I am on. I know it’s not for everyone. I’ve met some people to help a long the way but not everyone is meant to travel for the long haul. This is definitely a film to watch to remind yourself to dream again and that we should be more loving and accepting of each other, that’s how we change the world. It was all around a beautiful film. I’m looking forward to part 2.

Love always.

Xo,

Nina.