The Magic of Oz: 12 Things You Didn't Know About the Wicked Movie

12 Fun Facts About the New Wicked Movie That'll Have You Flying High

Alright, fellow Wicked stans, the wait is over, and it’s official—our favorite Broadway masterpiece has finally hit the big screen. Whether you’ve been humming “Defying Gravity” since middle school or just discovered the Emerald City glow-up thanks to TikTok, this movie is giving everything it needs to give. Seriously, the production team wasn’t messing around—every frame is pure magic.

From planting 9 million real tulips (yes, they actually did that) to bringing in Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, this adaptation is packed with energy, heart, and some jaw-dropping surprises. And let’s not forget about the OG Glinda and Elphaba, Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, making a fabulous cameo. Talk about iconic!

But what really sets this movie apart is the love, creativity, and inclusivity poured into every detail. It’s not just a retelling; it’s a reimagining that captures everything we love about the story and takes it to the next level.

1. Original Stars Make a Cameo

The OG Elphaba and Glinda, Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, are making a special appearance in the movie! How iconic is that? But wait—it gets even cooler. Costume designer Paul Tazewell switched things up by putting Idina in pink and Kristin in purple, a playful nod to their Broadway characters’ signature colors. It’s a full-circle moment for fans who’ve been obsessed since 2003. Plus, it’s giving major nostalgic vibes while blending perfectly with the new cast’s energy.

2. 9 Million Tulips for Oz's Rainbow Fields

Forget CGI—Director Jon M. Chu said, “Let’s keep it real” and went all out by planting 9 million tulips to recreate Oz’s iconic rainbow fields. Yes, nine. million. tulips. Not only is this a tribute to the famous “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” but it also proves how much thought and care went into making this magical world come alive. Honestly, if you don’t get a picture of those tulips, did the movie even happen?

3. Ariana Grande's Fierce Audition

Ariana Grande as Glinda feels like destiny, but fun fact: she wasn’t the only one gunning for the role. Big names like Dove Cameron, Reneé Rapp, and Amanda Seyfried also auditioned, giving the competition major Broadway energy. Ari’s love for the musical helped her clinch it, though. Fans know she’s been obsessed with Wicked for years, so seeing her hit those high notes in “Popular” is nothing short of magical.

4. Cynthia Erivo's Green Transformation

Playing Elphaba isn’t just about hitting crazy vocals—it’s also about committing to the look. For Cynthia Erivo, that meant sitting in the makeup chair for four hours every day to get Elphaba’s iconic green skin just right. Imagine sitting still that long, knowing the world is going to judge your every angle! That level of dedication is why Erivo is the Elphaba we didn’t know we needed.

5. Practical Magic Over CGI

In a world dominated by computer effects, Jon M. Chu kept things practical for Wicked. From real costumes to massive set builds, the team went the extra mile to make everything feel authentic. The result? A magical experience that feels grounded in reality. If you thought the floating bubbles and defying gravity were CGI, think again—this production is all about keeping it real.

6. Split into Two Movies

This one’s for everyone who thought, “How are they going to fit Wicked into just one movie?” Spoiler: they’re not! The movie is split into two parts, with the first focusing on Elphaba and Glinda’s time at Shiz University. Part Two will dive into the intense aftermath. Oh, and “Defying Gravity” is the epic finale of Part One. Iconic, right?

7. Real-Life Friendships on Set

The cast didn’t just slay their roles—they also became besties IRL. Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero) shared hilarious moments from set, including one where Ariana Grande’s dress got caught in his pants during a stunt. If that doesn’t scream chaotic friend energy, what does? The vibes on set were clearly immaculate, and you can feel that chemistry on screen.

8. Set Designs Straight Out of Oz

When it comes to creating Oz, the set designers didn’t play around. Every detail, from the Emerald City to the fields of flowers, was brought to life with stunning accuracy. It’s like stepping right into the pages of the book or the Broadway stage. You’ll want to pause every frame just to take in all the intricate designs.

9. New Characters, New Drama

The movie introduces fresh characters that weren’t in the musical. Dulcibear, Elphaba’s childhood nanny, and Miss Coddle, a headmistress at Shiz, add even more depth to the story. They give us new layers to the characters we already love, making the world of Wicked feel even richer. It’s giving main character energy all around.

10. Musical Numbers, But Make Them Extra

Some of the iconic songs you know and love are getting glow-ups. Take “Popular,” for example. The movie adds extra key changes and vocal flourishes that make it even more fun and over-the-top. It’s like the musical, but bigger, better, and more magical.

11. Breaking Records Already

Wicked is officially the highest-grossing movie adaptation of a Broadway musical in the U.S. It made an insane $359.2 million over Thanksgiving weekend, smashing records left and right. If this doesn’t prove that people are obsessed with Oz, I don’t know what does.

12. Representation That Matters

Marissa Bode, who plays Nessarose, is making history as the first actress using a wheelchair to take on the role. It’s a huge step forward for inclusivity in Hollywood, and fans are already loving her portrayal. Her performance proves that representation in storytelling isn’t just important—it’s magical.

From jaw-dropping practical effects to unforgettable performances, the Wicked movie has already carved its place in cinema history—and in our hearts. It’s not just a movie; it’s an experience that celebrates everything we adore about the story while adding fresh layers of magic. Whether it’s Cynthia Erivo’s electrifying Elphaba, Ariana Grande’s bubbly (and slightly sassy) Glinda, or Marissa Bode’s inspiring portrayal of Nessarose, every moment feels like a love letter to fans.

And let’s talk representation—because seeing Hollywood embrace inclusivity like this is beyond exciting. With groundbreaking casting and attention to detail, Wicked is more than just entertainment; it’s a sign of progress.

So, whether you’re heading to the theater for the spectacle, the nostalgia, or just to belt out “Popular” in your head, one thing’s for sure: this movie is pure magic. Ready to head to Oz? Because we’re already packing our broomsticks.

Stay tuned for more enchanting updates and exclusive scoops at Woke Waves Magazine!

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