I Expected to HATE Wicked

[@JonSolo]

Do you plan on seeing Wicked in theaters? Have you already? Let me know your thoughts, plans, and greatest fears in a comment down below! Thanks for checking out this review, Solo Cups :)

[@puppetseducer]

Yeah, we're going the 15th to see it. I loved the play ❤

[@VegimorphtheMovieBoy]

I've seen both the musical and now the movie version, and I liked both in terms of the direction, the actors, the set design, and the themes its going for (Ariana Grande pleasantly surprised me in the movie), and I can see why both are so popular but in terms of the revisionism being in the context of the Wizard of Oz universe, it just feels kind of off to me for some reason (that might be because I'm bias towards the 1939 film, although I feel the same way about the Cruella movie with Emma Stone too)

[@AshParth560]

Seen it three times already. First through an early screening. Second time is with my family. And third time this past Wednesday and had a blast with it. This is certainly one of those films that I'll come back to time and time again along with The Outsiders, Who Framed Roger Rabbit and a couple of others.

[@EchoAshbell]

I'll be going to see it but I'm not holding my breath. I don't have great expectations for it

[@mohammadbashammakh]

No

[@charlieflickinger7372]

I'm. So. Confused. How do people keep missing the politics of this movie? Elphaba becomes "the Bad Guy" because she decided to stand up for a section of the population that is being silenced, put in cages and told they can no longer hold jobs "above their station". Like it's not even subtext...

[@dmnapier7]

Sounds like DEI being stuffed in

[@motherboomer]

@@dmnapier7 It is not stuffed in -- it is literally the theme of the movie and reflected in the diverse cast

[@klarenee1123]

@@dmnapier7it’s literally the entire theme of the books (the original Oz books and Wicked) and the stage play it’s based on. There’s nothing “stuffed in” about it.

[@Bren]

I know I was surprised when he said that. Like, there are entire KZbin videos comparing Glinda to Megan Kelly…. Everyone is talking about the politics.

[@Bren]

@@dmnapier7it’s a story about someone being hated for their skin color…. Frankly it’s weird a white person ever played her.

[@joeyiscultured]

I think Ariana was perfectly cast. I think there were a lot of places where she intentionally emulates Kristin's original portrayal, but it was clear to me that the film was depicting her Galinda as a smarter, more calculated popular girl, so I don't think it's fair to compare her "poise" to Kristin's. I think she nailed the pretty, popular girl who is "nice" but very unkind and the politics are even easier to spot as a result.

[@alliewilson7036]

I agree she did give me mean girl vibes like the ones in High school

[@jamesshiel2274]

I personally don't care if actors cry in an interview and personally do not think it changes the quality of their work. Does having an opinion or being proud of your work make you grandiose? Some could argue that publishing videos of your own thoughts and opinions is a pretty self-indulgent thing to do, too.

[@ryanakers1372]

Personally, I loved the choreography. Talking specifically about "What is this Feeling;" seeing that group of students be insync with Glinda as she walked to the cafeteria and then disperse into cafeteria while the other students start picking up that movement and making it their own, I thought was really great visual storytelling that showed how Glinda's own prejudice spread through the rest of the students and was highlighted by the fact that Elphaba was the only one not dancing.

[@roklif73]

honestly it was probably the best adaptation of a Broadway musical in probably 40 years. I get the issues with using CGI, but these days practical effects at that scale are probably more expensive and time consuming. That they used practical as much as they did for such a fantastical vision is still pretty remarkable. Looking forward to part 2

[@charlesajones77]

They built a real, working, 16 ton train engine for the movie. Not to mention that whole insane library set. Can't fault them for production values, that's for sure.

[@SoundClaw09]

@@charlesajones77 The set design, beautiful. Just beautiful!

[@TECfan1]

I'm just glad they built physical sets at least. They're absolutely beautiful. And most of the budget probably went to that.

[@user-wi9se5ll3j]

Nah, art is still dead

[@just_swiftly_shake_it_off_1989]

The film is very self indulgent on its run time because they wanted to take the time and not rush it for the "short-attention-span" culture

[@joeyiscultured]

Also, one of the *biggest* complaints of the musical is that the story is too rushed and doesn't give the characters enough time to naturally move through plot points. I think the long run time was the only way to adapt the musical to a film without receiving the same (likely even worse) criticism

[@GabyGibson]

Pre-freaking-cisely!

[@pokytheturtle1757]

Exactly. Thank you. It’s sad that some people need everything spoon-fed explained to them and can’t possibility see that maybe there’s a more positive explanation for something they have a knee-jerk negative reaction to

[@rosemadder5547]

And also, because it started out as a book. The book has so much more in it than the stage play, and they worked off the book.

[@just_swiftly_shake_it_off_1989]

@@rosemadder5547 Exactly!!

[@YiloeIngram]

Jon, I personally love your videos. Every single time I come up with a new project idea tailored to mythology, folklore and fantasy within the public domain, you are my go to creator to give me an entertaining, charismatic overview of the story (so as to get the bare bones before I dive in to the deep end). But I have to admit the way you described the two leading actresses at the beginning did not sit right with me. When it comes to Cynthia and the poster, I truly do agree that she didn’t approach the situation the way she should have. A fan is most certainly allowed to express their artistic creativity by crafting fanart, but when it comes to Cynthia’s point of view of things, as a black woman myself I know what it feels like to consistently be on guard, putting up a façade of utter strength so as to hide the deeply sensitive and semi fractured nature of my being… due to culture and societies perception of me. Cynthia playing a role like Elphaba is not only incredibly fitting due to what lies beneath the green make up, but it’s also monumental for many Black people and specifically black women. I am a 22 year old black woman, and when I saw Cynthia on screen, it made me feel like my dreams of becoming a storyteller in such a position could potentially be a reality someday. When it comes to how Cynthia might have felt, I feel like she was immensely proud of herself for getting to where she has gotten, getting to Wicked as who she is. A feat of which is not so common and all too possible for anyone, let alone a black woman. The two leading actresses are being asked questions about their performances and about their relationship repeatedly, so it’s natural that they’re going to answer the questions with a response centered around their performances and their relationship. “Self obsessed and want to be more important than they actually are” is a harsh opinion, but an opinion nonetheless. At the end of the day, you deserve to have your own outlook and view of the two leading actresses as well as the movie itself. I respect your opinion, and I’m not going to sit here and say that my opinion is the objective standpoint, because it most certainly is not. I don’t know these women and these women don’t know me. Maybe they are self obsessed and maybe they do want to be more important than I actually are. I don’t know, but I simply wanted to express my outlook on your opinion.

[@paulziiee]

As a fellow black woman, I agree 100%

[@nerdaccount]

Thank you for this comment! I hope Jon reads and appreciates it.

[@shesalilsapphicokay]

I hear you. ❤

[@MiaRahm3]

As a black woman, I agree. This was beautifully said.

[@bernardp.1299]

CYNTHIA ERIVO MADE ME CRY AND SHE GAVE ME GOOSEBUMPS THROUGHOUT THE MOVIE!

[@shanboo1995]

Arianna did phenomenal in this role. We definitely can’t agree on that

[@rygregory]

It’s sad that people showing emotion is deemed as “self-indulgent” nowadays. And although I think Cynthia did overreact a bit to the fan’s re-edit of the poster, people are completely glossing over why she felt and reacted that way. It’s almost as if people’s reaction to her reaction is proving her point of why she reacted that way in the first place.

[@MystieeRBlx]

What do you mean Cynthia overreacted "a bit" she was being so petty like I genuinely don't get why she was acting that way I read why and the reasons she listed as why she was mad are SO petty so pls don't glaze because you know damn well Cynthia was being petty.

[@pokytheturtle1757]

@ Clearly you don’t understand the experience of being constantly discriminated against by factors outside your control. As a black woman, Cynthia has felt erased her whole life and the covering of her eyes felt like another erasure because looking into someone’s eyes is how you truly see them. Yes I think it was an overreaction but it was probably the straw that broke the camel’s back in a series of hurtful experiences, and don’t pretend like you don’t understand that. Unless you genuinely don’t understand it in which case you’re just ignorant

[@MystieeRBlx]

@@pokytheturtle1757 I mean I get that part but It was no reason to shit on a fan wicked account.

[@_GachaxKing_]

​@@MystieeRBlx She didn't shit on the fan account. she never singled out the person it was just the poster and she never even mentioned the fan because multiple people did those

[@MystieeRBlx]

@@_GachaxKing_ She basically did. She might have not done it straight but the fan might have felt guilty and bad about what they did even though there was nothing wrong with it.

[@Nikabee98]

There's no way you watched this movie where a major plot point is blatant discrimination against the talking animals and came away thinking this movie isn't political 🤔

[@Jrsdigest]

I think he was doing his best to downplay it as this is a big issue for most moviegoers who assume that everything is w ⭕️ k e lately. While it can be political in message, many can resonate with it. But people should not view it like pr 👁 poganda because it just isn't. It's simply a wizard of oz retelling, written in the 90s and reflective of modern societal themes.

[@laylascott6096]

@@JrsdigestI saw it and honestly I don’t really know the story and can’t figure out how it connects to the wizard of oz and the political context. I’m over tired. I enjoyed the singing very much tho

[@Bella-kk9ss]

@@laylascott6096 you will understand more when part two comes out 🫧

[@singingsiren82]

​@Jrsdigest the person who wrote the book intended for it to be political, and then the people who made the play intended for it to be political... it was woke before woke was a thing that people used as some weird pejorative.

[@kaydondaniel3743]

@@singingsiren82the person who wrote the book also intended it to be a message against people who claim to be the cultural “good guys” which is objectively what the woke movement has been. Being against discrimination is not a political stance relegated to the right or left wing. In recent years hollywood has tried to paint basic right wing ideas as discrimination or right wingers as racist, but nothing I have seen about this movie says it does that, making it apolitical.

[@leama046]

They're crying. All the time not because of self-obsession or importance but because this was their dream. This musical has meant so much to both of them since they were young if you've ever done theatre it is one of the most emotional things you can do. This is classic theatre kid behaviour.

[@user-wi9se5ll3j]

Just like theater kids, it’s annoying and shut up

[@mhdiep8192]

@@user-wi9se5ll3j ??? And??? Stop being a hater to theater kids :)))) It's just making you seems to be more pathetic. So what if we are emotional and easy to cry and able to express our emotion so freely? Do you know anything about acting or performing at all before you decided to comment sth rude online. You should go back to kinder garden to learn how to behave yourself. Oh ... wait. Maybe going back to kinder garden won't fix your behaviour :))) Who knows :))))

[@tallflipkick]

​@@user-wi9se5ll3jProbably something you're used to hearing. Your parents were probably ashamed to have you around their friends

[@englishatheart]

Dude, I have wanted to be an actress since I was 6. I would not act like these two. And those nails Cynthia wears? Holy shit. 🤮

[@ImJustinPineda]

I also think that it’s only positive that the two leads now have a deep bond. And why do people care if they cry or don’t? Some of us are very sentimental and I only saw myself in them in their emotions because I have bonds like that in my life. And I understand their feelings

[@shim1180]

There actually was one real animal in the film! It was Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero’s) horse XD I saw a video of a crew member painting him blue and apparently heard he refused to use any other horse as he has a connection with the particular one in the movie from another project! Love your videos!

[@kamatz83]

Yep, it's the same horse he rides in Bridgerton Season 2

[@amandaray_art]

Aww that’s so sweet. I was thinking that moment felt very Bridgerton season 2, had no idea it was the same horse 🤭

[@just_swiftly_shake_it_off_1989]

I WAS UGLY ASS CRYING IN THE THEATRE DURING THIS WHOLE FILM

[@kendraclewis6270]

Same

[@JonSolo]

I’m glad you liked it!

[@GorgonzolaChedda]

I cried like I had a breakthrough in therapy.

[@sandyg4646]

Lol? Really?

[@Drebe73]

❤

[@natalierocheleau1793]

Ok the emotions really are specific to their experience. This is the role not just those two but millions wanted to do this. And the strain on musical actors is ridiculous. Also the story is SO emotional anyway. I feel like their emotions start with the fact that this is their childhood dreams are being fulfilled and then sharing in that mutual emotion. Not to mention their insane weight loss can create unbalanced hormones and emotions. (Sorry had to get that last bit in)

[@pokytheturtle1757]

Thank you for this. This “review” was filled with so many brain-dead hot takes, someone needed to explain it to him

[@stuffingtonjfluffypantsiii]

I was surprised usually when a big name is in a movie it's had to see the character past the actor. For example, if I see a movie starring The Rock i just see The Rock playing a character. I didn't see Ariana Grande playing Glinda. I just saw Glinda. I did like Jeff Goldblum as the wizard because that's how I always thought of him. Intimidating at first then after a while your like "Is this it? Just this doofus?"

[@DidrickNamtvedt]

Same. When Emma Watson played Belle in the 2017 live action version of Beauty And The Beast, I thought she was terribly miscast, not only because she can't sing to save her life, but also due to the fact that she wasn't giving me Belle vibes at all, she didn't physically resemble her and her performance in total also fell flat. To me she came across not as Belle, but as Emma Watson playing Belle. Ariana Grande, on the other hand, really became Glinda for me. I didn't see the popstar Ariana Grande at all, but an amazing portrayal of the Glinda character and I can totally see why Kristin Chenoweth gave Ariana her stamp of approval. Ariana was born to play this role and it really shines through.

[@stuffingtonjfluffypantsiii]

I've never seen the stage version. I was blown away . I went to see it a 2nd time last night and plan to see it a 3rd time tomorrow.

[@MrE_]

Is this really worth 8 hours of your life?

[@stuffingtonjfluffypantsiii]

@MrE_ yes. Yes it is

[@kendraclewis6270]

@@stuffingtonjfluffypantsiii I’m definitely planing to watch it again

[@lethalsword628]

@@MrE_it really is amazing!

[@mybraineatseverything7404]

I guess you like wasting money.

[@yedis1750]

Sorry mate, dont agree that they're self-indulgent and the poster thing wasnt actually about the poster. Cynthia Erivo had a barage of racist and obscene attacks on socials and others attacking her credentials even though she is a tony, grammy and emmy winning actress as well as being double oscar nominated for another film and for best originsl songbwhich she co wrote. She admits that she lashed out in response to that, misinterpretting the intention of the fan who changed the poster and says that she regrets her reaction . I think if you watch all of the interviews back to back then its going to seem self indulgent but actually both of them have gone through a pretty intense time through the process of making the film. Yeah i agree that they probably arent the best interviews in the world but if wearing your emotions close to the surface results in the excellent performances that they both gave, then i'm happy to sit through a few gushy interviews.

[@heatherturner2366]

I've never heard of her before the interviews started circulating

[@ubeydruff]

Totally agree regarding Jeff Goldblum. You perfectly described how he acts.

[@stuartm6069]

I agree, they could have gotten any older Broadway Musical actor to play the role and do it justice.

[@anthonyrose2496]

Agree Lol "The Wizard of Oz is Jeff Golblum as Jeff Goldblum...uh uh...Life uh uh finds a way. 🤣🤣🤣

[@thecommentsection4913]

The "self indulgent" thing is really a result of the fact that a lot of people are not deeply passionate about anything nor have access to deep emotions or the comfort in expressing emotional depth. Seeing Ariana and Cynthia feel so deeply about this experience/being so connected and vulnerable makes many watching so uncomfortable because they watching can't relate. It comes across as jarring or inauthentic because they have never felt that type of passion for anything. Further, they have never allowed themselves to feel or express that type of emotion about anything.

[@quinnieh8310]

Sorry but the take on Ariana's performance is objectively wrong. Anyone who's seen the musical knows that Glinda is not "poised" and "elegant" until arguably Act 2, which is a front she's mostly putting on to save face. The entire point of "Popular" is showing how awkward and unhinged she is.

[@alexiscortes5066]

i don’t think asking how someone changed you for good is a basic question. its quite a deep question especially given the plot one was already aware about. also given their “personal” public life and what the actors have experience AND what the story means to them.

[@kendraclewis6270]

I absolutely loved this movie, I’m a sucker for a great villain origin story.

[@ChelseaCookmusic2011]

The problem with the fan edit of the movie poster is that it was NOT edited to look exactly like the original broadway playbill. If it was, Ariana would have been showing in a long sleeve, high collar white gown and the same kind of pointed hat that elphaba had on, except white. While I disagree with Cynthia on how she expressed her feelings over it, I also understand her reaction. Because they only moved Ariana’s hand. Nothing else was roughed to make it look like the original. Meanwhile Cynthia was heavily edited by adding the red lip, the smirk, and completely covering her eyes. So let’s be real about it. And let’s not ignore the fact that the British media is promoting Ariana more than Cynthia when Cynthia is a British actress, a million times more accomplished, and she plays the titular character! She’s facing THAT kind of erasure on top of a tan completely editing her entire face while barely editing Ariana? How does anyone not see an issue with that?

[@hinata5734]

Some of the gripes you have are really because you aren’t a person who consumes broadway acting and what it can bring to the table. Especially with choreography… like what did you even mean lol why would they copy the choreo from the production when they are making a feature length film. If you taken the chance to watch the musical again as you’re an adult and not 10 you’d understand breaking the film into two allows you to breath through each number and build their characters. I’d like to add that Ariana or Cynthia weren’t set out to replicate the original performances, they set out to find their own versions. And as far as their emotions to their response on interviews clearly shows that you aren’t seeing that these women built a bond through these years… and surprise surprise women aren’t afraid to show how much they mean to each other. All of this is fine and a film should have its advertising. Swipe past it it’s not that serious

[@eamonclark4952]

The animals in Wicked look like the animals in Dolittle probably because they were animated by the same animation studio and both films are from Universal and based on books

[@JonSolo]

Interesting point!! Also want to note that I think the CGI looked worse in the theater than in the trailers/promos. Im not sure why that is but I’m curious to see how it’ll look when we eventually watch it at home on a 4k screen.

[@slytheringingerwitch]

@@JonSolo It's still better than the seven dwarves in Snow White...

[@timross10]

The first 1:25 of this video is a very white man take that and how dare women show emotions stick to greek stuff but i clearly see that’s dying out so downplaying a black womens frustration and women’s passion is your new thing, your in for a rude awakening, but what else can i expect from a white man

[@daniellebrown9381]

Literally the way he talked about Cynthia being mad about having her face edited, and then shit talking about them being emotional during interviews as if Ariana hasn't wanted to play Glinda since she was 10. I used to be a fan of his but Jesus Christ the way he talks about women makes me wonder how he got a wife in the first place

[@LiliannEnder]

​@@daniellebrown9381 I honestly would understand why Cynthia would get mad. I'm not a black person myself, but the way the poster was edited looks wrong in my opinion. Plus, I believe Cynthia apologized for her outburst afterwards, right?

[@diddyjohn6872]

Typical internet moment. Someone expresses an opinion you disagree with therefore they must be a racist, sexist piece of shit 🙄

[@daniellebrown9381]

@ honestly I don't think she should have had to apologize, that poster was atrocious

[@tashadfowler3465]

Bro you are the exact reason why Adam Driver doesn't do interviews😂 a lot of people have anxiety issues or may have dealt with personal problems during the process or during the filming of a movie. There are many actors and actresses who have anxiety issues😅 but the fact you didn't see the political aspect of it explains why you don't understand😂

[@simplyspice7916]

I just wish people would stop expecting a remake of the original 1925 Wizard of Oz.... because this is not that. This movie is based on the book by Gregory Maguire, it is actually a three books series.... and if people would pick up the first book and read it they would have a better understanding of what they're getting ready to go watch. I mean there's an audiobook version, and there's probably even a Braille edition. People need to understand the context of what they're going to watch before they go in with preconceived notions and then ruin it for everyone else when they're disappointed with what they're watching because it didn't meet their expectations. It reminds me of how a bunch of cowboy loving men and women went to watch Brokeback Mountain thinking that it was some sort of roping and wrangling movie about two rough and tumble cowboys..... it actually kind of is but......Wow! weren't they surprised!! Edit: if you tell me you don't like musicals and in the same breath tell me that you've never seen Little Shop of Horrors, it's not a justified conclusion imo🤭

[@slytheringingerwitch]

Did you mean the 1939 version of the Wizard of Oz? The 1925 or even the 1910 version are not quite the same as the musical. I mean Wicked is based off that (the 1939 one) movie, as the witch is not green in the original L Frank Baum's Oz books etc etc. Wicked is basically a fan fic of a movie loosely based on a book. I think most people know what they are watching. Many of us have seen the Wizard of Oz (1939) many times and so know what was changed and what wasn't. Sometimes though, great musicals transferred to screen aren't great as often they pick a name and not some actor who can sing, dance and perform. Luckily for us, both Cynthia and Ariana looked great, managed to sing well and be the roles. But both of them are heavily influenced by the Wizard of Oz of the 1939 movie version.

[@simplyspice7916]

@slytheringingerwitch My comment was referring to those individuals whom I've heard complain about the continuity of characters, the plot, and costuming....among other things, in Wicked. Thank you for noticing my error, I was in fact refrencing the 1939 version in my original comment. Do you agree that LSoH is an iconic musical?

[@gojiramonster2388]

Hah! Criticizing Ariana Grande for not having the elegance and poise for Glinda, when Kristen Chenoweth got so many laughs playing Glinda as a little gremlin! XD

[@pault5557]

I’m not sure I agree with your opinion about the choreography, which I really enjoyed, but I will say that Ariana was essentially playing Kristin playing Glinda, which is fine for me. I don’t know how anyone can go into an iconic role like that without harkening back to the originator! And you are right about Jeff Goldblum, but I love his quirky personality, so I was OK with that. The set design and scenery was phenomenal, and that they actually built so much of it is completely amazing!

[@queenmagentafox]

How are people so surprised by this being part 1? They have said this will be 2 parts since the jump

[@gjford1951]

And people have been accusing them of "hiding the fact that it's a musical" and hiding the fact that it's two parts" since the beginning of the film production.

[@pokytheturtle1757]

Yep. Some people are just dumb

[@flamecaster0534]

I beg to differ. I'd have had to actively search up info to find that out. I've seen posters for it plastered everywhere and even in the trailer I saw, there's no mention of it. They titled it, "Wicked" and left it out of posters and trailers knowing fully that most people would assume it was the complete story, and for people who don't spend a lot of time online, it absolutely worked

[@pokytheturtle1757]

@ Well from the first 5 minutes of the movie, it lets you know right away from the title card that it’s “Wicked: Part 1”. So if people were so outrageously offended by being “duped” by the “false advertising” they could’ve gotten up and walked away right then instead of “wasting” 2.5 more hours of their time

[@flamecaster0534]

@@pokytheturtle1757 My dude, it's not about wasting time, it's about shitty capitalistic practices. They knew that people would be more likely to wait to watch it instead of going to theaters if they had advertised it overtly, so they didn't. Once you're in the theaters, you've already spent the money, so they've accomplished their goal. I'm not complaining about the movie itself, I really enjoyed it. What does piss me off, however, is that it was intentionally advertised as the complete story, so I wasn't expecting to have to wait a year to get the rest of it

[@ChicagoOwl]

The Cynthia Erivo reaction was extreme but it was also taken out of context. She had been receiving a LOT of inappropriate questions, commentary, and attacks about playing that role. The poster adjustment reaction was more of a "last straw" moment (if anyone actually read her full post). There's also a lack of understanding about WHY/HOW theatre posters are different from movie posters. Theatre posters hide faces/are cartoonish/non descript because the actors change OFTEN, especially for longer runs. There starting casts, alternates, touring casts, etc... Movie posters feature the actors because they DON'T change. When considering the attacks she received PLUS the poster - yes it was still an overreaction, but I can understand how it felt like an erasure of her in the moment.

[@Leo-Galaxy]

*The accusations you made against Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo for being emotional in their interviews are completely unfair and unnecessary. They're just expressing gratitude for playing their dream roles, which clearly means a lot to them. Of course, they're going to be emotional-it’s only natural. But instead, you chose to accuse them of being self-indulgent. Seriously, why do you have to assume the worst out of these women?*

[@narutoking16]

Right, and calling them self obsessed is crazy... like there are whole interviews where Cynthia Erivo is ignored completely even though she is THE star of Wicked as Elphaba. Jon I love you bro but that was uncalled for.

[@Omega31716]

They are actors, they act. No matter how grateful for a dream role you are no one has ever cried in ever interview at every question.

[@Leo-Galaxy]

@@Omega31716 You're underestimating how important and meaningful Wicked is to them.

[@mybraineatseverything7404]

😅 😂

[@melindoranightsilver9298]

Ariana has been obsessed with the stage show since she was a kid. She kept hoping for a film version and kept asking about it. She was the one who worked to keep it as faithful to the stage show as possible. Most actors aren't that insistent when it comes to an adaptation so Wicked meant a lot to her.

[@lisagauci3354]

I heard at least 6 months ago that it was a 2 part movie, and I never watch any interviews about movies. But I did hear that they were really touching feelings

[@MusicLover321952]

Overall, I do agree that Grande was probably not the best role choice for Glinda... but I will give her credit for one thing... Popular. I do love the amount of enthusiasm she put into that "RIGHT!" as she answered Elphaba's "Popular!" cut-in answer. It made me jump and I loved it. But yes... Goldblum was... I mean, he did better than I was expecting, but it still just could've been more. And now I'm very worried for Wonderful, because that's my favorite number that isn't strictly focused on Elphaba.

[@MiaRahm3]

1. You trashing them personally in the beginning was uncalled for. You have a right to an opinion, but they are real people with real emotions. And for me, as a black woman, seeing her face was important on and off screen. After seeing the movie, I understand why their interviews were so emotional. The character work that they did was absolutely heavy. And they're allowed to express that. These are roles that they've waited many years to have a chance to play. And its a huge deal, to do it on the big screen. Especially as a black woman. I always love your videos. And i appreciate you as a creator. But this one was a bit disappointing.

[@TroyPacelli]

Thanks

[@JonSolo]

Thank you, Troy!

[@TroyPacelli]

@@JonSolo Just joined your Patreon, too. No more freeloading.

[@davidcampbell4174]

It’s not how long something is, it is how long that is feels. And this movie flew by for me. I would have sworn it was an hour and a half at most.

[@joryjones6808]

I think the musical is still political or at least has a political dimension i.e element to it. What I think you mean to say is that it is not partisan, not trying to force you to a specific conclusion. Rather it is a look into diffrenet, maybe neglected prospective and human relationships and how we can see each other more completely (I sound like John Green). Also my art history professor mentioned a point, which I think applies to this musical, that most political issues are linked to and often the byproduct of cultural ones where artist actually shape the social conversation to which politicians respond to.

[@s.tiaira9081]

7:05 so I agree but I do like what she brought to the role. Her version of Galinda showed the characters fake side better. Kristin’s version of Galinda was so likable I was shocked when she betrayed Elphaba.

[@sycedits1613]

Honestly first vid I disagreed so much with u But what I'd like to ask is for a rundown of the book vs. The musical cause its SO different

[@jonbstudios7257]

I like Wicked, and I can’t wait to see part 2 where maybe, we get to see Elphaba’s sister also become a witch just like she was in the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

[@AceNateRP]

wait... didn't she die in the tornado?

[@jonbstudios7257]

@ Dorothy’s house crushed her in the movie, but she was The Wicked Witch of the East. And Wicked is a prequel where she wasn’t a witch in the first part.

[@mathidew]

I think this review should be renamed to Wicked 1 vs. Wicked (Broadway), since a lot of what you didn’t like came from comparisons to the stage play.

[@JonSolo]

Good point!

[@AkiliClaireAmethyst]

Have you read the L. Frank Baum books? I could have sworn there were weird words like "braverism" in them. If not, it at least feels like the logic/mindset all the Ozians had.

[@melsch8740]

I just lowkey find it hilarious when creators use the edited poster 😂😂

[@santiagogear4912]

Wicked Pt 1 & 2 were announces SINCE THE BEGINING. NOT DECEPTIVE, you just didn't care to look it up. also you hate musicals and hated the musicals you don't get to be so harsh on Ariana's casting

[@ryyaannn_]

the interview controversy is literally just misogynistic. people being incapable of comprehending that two leads in a musical movie could be emotional about the journey they went on together is…. interesting

[@ryyaannn_]

and ariana was not miscast lmao… the amount of bad takes in this is crazy

[@asterlyons8564]

If it was a one-off thing, no one would be talking about it. The fact that there were tears at interview after interview is why people are clowning on it.

[@ryyaannn_]

⁠@@asterlyons8564 lol sure… i think y’all are just ignorant and annoying

[@heatherturner2366]

Basically every single interview was them crying, with Arianna looking like she's trying to show everyone that she can steal anyone's spouse

[@ryyaannn_]

@@heatherturner2366 that doesn’t even make any sense..? you tried to be funny and failed lol

[@tgirl678]

I haven't seen the movie yet, but as soon as you brought up the flying monkeys being CGI and sprouting wings, I knew you were going to bring up an American Werewolf in London 😂

[@josephrojas9097]

Your disdain for these two seems unfounded and honestly wildly disproportionate. It’s funny as hell 😂

[@Beatlesfanish]

Agreed on all counts XD

[@ryyaannn_]

like… this just actually pmo lol

[@gunbladeym]

im dizzy..... i've rolled my eyes so many times during this video.... if his goal is to elicit this type of reaction from the viewers, well congrats you've succeeded 👏

[@navypinkdesign]

"crocodile tears" (they're not fake tears) and "self indulgent" (they aren't indulging in anything selfish; interviewers are actively trying to push buttons to get some emotion) just aren't accurate. those are "high school is finally over" tears. some ppl are just emotional. i get your joking but i LOVE crying; it's cathartic and let's me know when i really give a shit about something or someone. trying to hold it in is like trying to hold in a sneeze or cough. if you can't stand it, just scroll away or look away. i'd rather see someone cry than lose their temper. tears > tantrums

[@allie_Am]

The animals being CGI works better because they look like actual animals. Having humans dressed up as animals wouldn't have the same effect that they're really limited and is different with humans except they're sentient in this universe

[@JonSolo]

I think the whole “animals losing the power of speech” angle was more powerful in the stage musical because the animals started out as bipedal, almost-human-animal hybrids that slowly lost that human component. In the movie Dr. Dillamond has the full body of a goat and couldn’t help but bleat from his introduction which made him becoming more animal-like less dramatic and intense. Imo.

[@pokytheturtle1757]

@@JonSoloThat’s exactly the point tho… you’re only accepting of them if they fit what you deem “acceptable”. If they’re too different from what you consider worthy of rights and respect, then you don’t think they deserve those rights and respect. Your reaction is exactly the kind of reaction the movie is condemning

[@kamatz83]

@@JonSolo My dude, they can't make a goat sing and dance in the theater version. They NEEDED to be humans in disguise.

[@amandaray_art]

Yeah, I personally like that they look like actual animals. Makes it even more obvious why Dr. Dilamond can’t pronounce Galinda’s name. I’d love a world where I could talk to real animals lol. I agree the flying monkeys are the weakest CGI-wise, but the rest are fine to me. The humanoid animal look don’t look better to me imo. Definitely works for the stage or a children’s movie, but idk if I’d take it seriously with the tone of this film. Kind of reminds me of Chronicles of Narnia which has both a bit of practical, but mostly cgi for the talking animal characters.

[@englishatheart]

Humans are animals, ya dope.

[@TroyPacelli]

0:11 OMG, my wife and I saw the same run of Wicked at the Ford Theater. It's entirely possible we were at the same performance (tough very unlike, as it had a four year run... that's a long time to defy gravity)

[@JonSolo]

No way! I should have mentioned my school band took us there in ‘06, ‘07, and ‘08 because my teacher was obsessed lol. I was lucky enough to see the California show with family as well in ‘07 I believe.

[@TroyPacelli]

@@JonSolo I thought about it some more and realized that, since you said it was a field trip, you probably saw a matinee and we were on a double date after dinner. But, still, we almost certainly saw the same cast. I didn't get to see any musicals unless they came to Chicago. That it it impossible for me to ever see a live version of Cats, since, as far as I was aware, it only had very brief, limited engagements, and as a HS and Uni student, I couldn't scrape the $$ together on short notice back then. I think it's cool that you and I have likely chewed a lot of the same Midwestern ground.

[@DreamIt.PursueIt.AchieveIt]

I had the same attitude about the movie. Like meehh.. after watching it and crying so much until the point that i got a headache... i loved it! The whole cast, including extras, did a spectacular 🎉job!!!!

[@allandm]

Wait, people actually think the cgi animals look bad? I thought they looked amazing, are people just hating on cgi cuz it's trendy to do so now? Cmon, they did not look bad. They looked infinitely better than a guy wearing a goat mask, it works for a play but would definitely not work in a movie.

[@BKB2300]

Arina was the right cast for Glinda since she does have that kind tiny high pitch voice like in the original broadway and also looks exactly like how Glinda would look if she young

[@demedawalker7169]

I've known it was part one for the last three years. It follows the book. The odd language was in the books.

[@MOONFANTASI]

Hey! I know this request is kinda of topic due to this video being about Wicked, but I am so intrigued by your Scary Stories to Tell in The Dark videos that I wanted to request a story: Its a story about a couple but the wife is afraid of her husband, so she always cooks him food. But one day the liver she cooked him looked so good, she ate it all. She panics realizing she has nothing to feed him and thats when she remembers that an old lady has died nearby. She takes the ladies liver and serves to her husband. At night the old ladys ghost haunts the woman asking for her liver. She blames her husband for it being missing and the old ladys ghost most likely killed him.

[@SweetLibertyTravels]

The entourage dancing on "What Is This Feeling?" is one of my fave parts of the song 🔥🔥💃🏾

[@Eddieavina123]

Love your video, Jon Solo, and keep up the great work you are awesome

[@christopherrushing5857]

i'm with you jon! great vid!

[@jamesonmagnus]

I haven’t seen a more cynical review. It almost feels like you just did this review because you knew you’d get a much of traffic. This movie musical was absolute perfection and it shows from the majority of reviews and box office sales. You are so wrong on so many points.

[@krab1791]

I agree, I was very much expecting to be disappointed. Having said that, I love musicals and have also seen Wicked (the Broadway musical). I did not however see the original cast musical. My daughter did tell me before hand that it was a 2 parter. I was also pleasantly surprised by Ariana Grande. I expected they hired her just to pull fans. I was surprised at how good an actress she was. I didn’t even know it was almost 3 hrs long until watching this video. I also didn’t feel like it was a cliff hanger. It ended at an appropriate point in the story that makes it a good standalone movie. I agree the music was wonderful. I do agree the choreography was overdone. Someone decided to take advantage of the fact that they weren’t limited to a stage. This likely contributed to the runtime Well worth the watch.

[@joeleoleo]

Ariana was a Disney Channel kid. She’s been singing and acting for most of her life.

[@navypinkdesign]

"self-obsessed, wannabe more important than actually are" where tf are you getting this? are you just filling in the blanks with your own biases?

[@zehavathezamboni]

I think the reason they were trying to pull off the ozian language stuff is because Schwartz wrote in non-words to rhyme with real words. “Degreenify”, “disgusticified”, etc. making these just part of their language would make those words stand out less in songs. But it kind of had the opposite effect and made those words stand out in their conversations. Also, I have to disagree with Ariana being miscast. I’m not a fan of her music or her personality but I think she’s the only celebrity I would accept in this role. She has the vocal ability and it’s a pretty well known fact that the reason she started acting and singing was because of seeing wicked and she constantly said how it was a dream role for her. I feel like someone else wouldn’t keep the character as the character and change it to be more themself. Ariana was Glinda. She wasn’t herself playing Glinda, she was embodying the character. I feel like people’s personal hate for her distracts from her wonderful performance as Glinda.

[@robssjunior4152]

Sorry buddy, do some research. It’s very lazy to criticize very important decisions in a movie that was set to failure from the beginning. They made us (20+ year fans of the musical/book/wizard of oz books/movie) very happy. I’m sure you were not in their mind while making this piece. It’s not for anyone. It’s quite deep and political but not for everyone. People only can see what they are capable, and it’s okay. The new language, the animals, the choices, the part 1 and 2.. it was all done very carefully to be respectful to the ones that actually care. And we’re happy and proud and waiting for more. Then you give an 8/10? Hahaha thank you for reminding me why I love this film and will watch it over and over forever.

[@bookishbutterfly]

The story is absolutely political, including the casting. Characters being othered, cornered, and ostracized. What's considered "preachy garbage"? I see nothing wrong with them tearing up during interviews. They were passionate and invested in dream roles. I knew it was broken into 2 parts before it came out. Anyone who is and fan and familiar with the broadway musical knew. It's unfair to compare with the live musical, but it was bound to happen seeing as the cast did all their own stunts and were singing during shooting. The movie leans more dramatic while the broadway script has more comedic timing. Cynthia Erivo gave us a fantastic performance as Elphaba. The fan edited poster was just meant to copy the original broadway poster. I doubt people are trying to understand her reaction. Some of the public has voiced their disdain over actors being casted in certain lead roles and would go so far as to erase them (ETo name a few: Halle Bailey in The Little Mermaid, Will Smith as Genie in Aladdin, Rachel Zegler for Snow White, Zendaya as MJ). Ariana Grande surprised me with how fitting she was for G(a)linda. Perfect amount of doe-eyed and annoying pretty privilege in the beginning.

[@singingsiren82]

Saying a movie about of woman of color standing up for a group of disenfranchised beings who are being kicked of their jobs for just exisiting and starring said woman plus another woman who is basically just a symbol of performative care is not political is a take.

[@daniellemarcantel2487]

The movie was better than what I thought it would be. I'm not an Ariana Grande fan, but she was a decent Glinda. Cynthia Erivo was an amazing Elphaba.

[@Jurassicparkfan1025]

I really enjoyed the wicked movie... I ship Gelphie 😊😊😊

[@JonDunn-l7g]

Jon, I agree entirely about the Ozian language and the Dr Seussian architecture. For a reference point, see any version of How The Grinch Stole Christmas, but I was alright with the actors and the choreography. I think that Arianna Grande brought a certain perspective to G'linda that I never saw b4--I always thought that G'linda just followed the road from where she was, to the good witch she became, but Arianna plays her as getting less callow, less shallow.

[@judithholder2537]

happily enjoyifying your commentations, but also the spasmodifying choreosophy!

[@ChelseaF2011]

Why are people hating on Ariana Grande as Glenda in wicked? she litigate has worked her whole life/career to play that role. My personal opinion is she was born to play as Galinda. Just like Cynthia erivo was born to play alphaba. They both worked well together. Can’t wait for wicked part 2. although I’m sad I have to wait a year to watch part 2. ❤

[@lonniegabbie]

The bears and other animals had their rights taken away, thats the whole plot. Elphaba emphasized with them for the prejudice that she’s received herself.

[@sakunaruful]

Empathized.

[@davidrussell4393]

I'm going to see it tomorrow. Looking forward to it. The one thing I absolutely love about opinions is that everyone is entitled to have one and even if they are different, they are still right. From just the previews and reviews I've seen, I know I'm going to like it. Keep up the good work Sir!!

[@fatalsans4725]

I want to point out of what you said that they shouldn’t have used practical effects for the animals or have the casts dress up as anthromorphic animals, I can tell you didn’t read the book but it says that they are talking animals but not anthromorphic animals. The broadway can’t exactly have the actors go around on all fours.

[@yepitspeaches]

The only thing I agree with with your problems with the movie was the CGI Animals. I totally agree they should have done practical effects with them because the whole set and props being real the CGI animals just kind of took me out of it a bit. Other than that I think the movie was almost perfect. Can’t wait for part two!

[@Elparker28]

Ellie is snarky in the books but I agree that Cynthia did a great job. I think Amanda Seigfried should’ve gotten Galinda. Ariana Granda is talented but I find her so uncanny in this.

[@Prettty_Angelina]

The only reason this movie gets a pass by me is they he explains it and all the characters give it a good balance, honestly the visuals are really satisfying to see and really posed

[@megangironda7109]

I love that they made this movie for the musical theater people. They made it for the people who would want to learn the complicated choreography, they made it for the people who wanted to see Galinda 40 bajillion different crazy things in popular……. But they also made it well enough that even with “negativity” NON-theater people are still giving it an 8/10. That’s what makes me happy. I loved every minute of the 2hr 40 minute run time. I am already listening to this soundtrack over the obc (and I never thought that would happen). This and West Side Story have been two musical adaptations that I have unabashedly LOVED and been so pleased with as a musical theater fan, and I can’t wait to regularly take up an entire day to watch the whole 2 parts of it in the future 😂

[@VagaBond6921]

I’ve known about Wicked for a while, but never seen in till the movie, and I am in love with this series and this just reignited my love for Oz

[@Mangolite]

It's an absolute surprise to see Jon doing a movie review. He may have done this before, but a Wicked film review seemed fitting for his channel.

[@LackofAmbition]

This is such a refreshing take on the film! Thanks Mr Solo!

[@supergalaxygodstar]

I read the comment that people keep referring to, (as an attack on fans). Wildly exaggerated, and dismisses the previous comments and depictions of her. (Done by the trolls). Umm, i mean fans, as you're categorizing them. I have two questions. Is Cynthia Erivo's controversial comment an attack or self defense. And why do the fans keep purposefully editing her eyes out of the poster? 🤔

[@sarasandmeyer7853]

Have you rewatched the wizard of oz lately? I rewatched it last night and was genuinely shocked at the display of those flying monkeys, I didn’t remember them looking that way…. The Wicked flying monkeys certainly look a lot more consumable to today’s audience. I will die on this hill!

[@jrr2480]

I guess you'll do a deep dive into the dark origins of the Wicked franchise after you see part 2.

[@sakunaruful]

Jon, you should see the Lion King, Into the Woods, and Once Upon A Mattress.

[@chemextin74]

Thank the gods for this video!!!!! I was wondering if you'd make it since the very first video in this series!! 😂

[@kennyyugioh99]

Jon you crazy they’ve been said it was a 2 part movie sorry if people didn’t get the memo plus the edited poster looked awful and only edited Cynthia & not Ariana plus Next, Ariana is very elegant to play Glinda and one of few people who can sing the role and I love how you didn’t talk about how good the other actors did Tbh I’ll agree Jeff & Michelle could’ve been replaced but overall they did fine And do people forget celebrities are humans so how can those 2 not become genuine friends why does it have to be fake? The CGI was realistic enough they didn’t need to use real animals Lastly the choreo was phenomenal they were extra but only on the songs that deserved it and you forget this is a world of magic it’s going to be a lil extra including the language like Oh My Oz WICKED PART 1: was the only 10/10 movie in 2024 and I can’t wait to see them both be nominated for award season coming up

[@stevefisher2553]

57 year old man here...SAW IT TWICE

[@muma-kitty1639]

im gonna be honest, i saw wicked on stage a few years back and the only thing i remembered about it when it was over was that the wizard was played by the guy who originally voiced professor oak

[@originalcosmicgirl]

I'm a little confused about why you think it's unreasonable to have the citizens of Oz ostracize Elphaba. Yes, this is a society with bear midwives and goat professors. It's also a society where they are being rounded up and having their voices taken away. Also, as far as I can tell, Elphaba is the only green person in Oz. People fear the unknown in every society. Personally, i really enjoyed Ariana Grande's performance. I think her start on Nickelodeon and status as a pop star cause a lot of people to underestimate her talent. While I'm not a die hard fan, I do think she is a talented comedic actor as demonstrated in her recent stint on SNL. I also like Jeff Goldblum as the wizard. Gary Oldman would have been amazing (obviously), but I think Jeff Goldblum has a certain quirkiness of personality that is very fitting for the role of a huxter wizard. I love your content, but I must respectfully disagree on this one. Still love you, though, and I hope you've been feeling better. 💖 Edit: I totally agree with you that the use of nonsensical words was overdone and a bit annoying. I hope they dial it back for the sequel.

[@pixelberry-rf4sm]

I can't agree more

[@nothere8714]

i genuinely belive that the scene with the airballoon escape should have been scraped at least partially if not entirely. its an easter egg streched for too long and has no point, cuase they couldnt have gotten to the final attic from there. if you look, the edge of that tower doesnt connect to anywhere. thay just cut and suddnly they are in a place they couldnt have gotten to from where they were before. its a whole sequnce that really has no point beyond an easter egg (its more then 5 minuts).

[@AN-bw6is]

flop ariana was my favorite part of the movie she was hilarious and her expressions during no one mourns the wicked 😮‍💨

[@abigalanderson7494]

I only see Jeff Goldbloom as the guy from Jurassic Park lol! Great movie though!😊

[@RichardHausmann-iu9pj]

Jon you need to talk about "Oz the Great and Powerful"

[@kristynhorton2831]

Fiyero’s horse was real. It’s the same horse Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero) uses in Bridgerton.

[@SharlaNelson]

Oooooooo…love that! I haven’t seen it yet but I want to. I have seen about four musicals in my lifetime. I love them. I want to see the movie. My boyfriend saw it. I’m hoping that he would see it again with me.

[@dakelous]

You need to do return to oz next