The Best Songs From Wicked

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Key Takeaways

  • Wicked‘s film adaptation made a huge splash with critics and audiences, grossing $163m in its worldwide opening weekend.
  • The stellar soundtrack, led by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, left audiences humming with some of the best songs from Wicked.
  • Notable performances include Ariana Grande’s lead in “No One Mourns The Wicked” and the powerful duet “Defying Gravity.”

As a long-time theater enthusiast, I must say that this list is a veritable feast for the ears and eyes! Each song in this production of Wicked showcases the immense talent of its cast, with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande delivering standout performances.

As a devoted fan, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the big-screen version of the phenomenal stage show Wicked. With Broadway’s expectations running high and recent musical adaptations like West Side Story and Cats falling short, there was a palpable sense of pressure. But, fortunately, director Jon M. Chu has delivered a faithful adaptation that not only appeased Broadway fans but also broke the mold of underperforming musicals. Right from its debut, this film has been hailed as a smash hit by both critics and audiences alike.

The movie adaptation of “Wicked” earned a staggering $163 million globally during its debut weekend, making it the highest-grossing opening for any Broadway adaptation. Critics have been lavishing the film with accolades, and there’s a lot of chatter about possible Oscar nominations for this production. The heart of any musical’s success lies in an outstanding soundtrack, and in this case, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver standout performances as the lead actresses. Undoubtedly, viewers find themselves humming some of the most memorable tunes from Wicked for days following the screening.

Spoiler Alert: Some plot details will be discussed.

10. A Sentimental Man

Lead Performance: Jeff Goldblum

Jeff Goldblum puts in a laudable attempt, yet doesn’t quite reach the extraordinary level of acting prowess showcased in the movie. Since audiences don’t get much time with the Wizard, “A Glimpse into the Heart of the Magician” provides a valuable insight into his character, even though, as usual for the Wizard, much of what he speaks is false.

The tune is concise, primarily serving to hint at the spectacular climax, with the Wizard making light-hearted comments on Elphaba’s rise while famously saying, “Each person should have the opportunity to soar.

9. Something Bad

Lead Performances: Peter Dinklage & Cynthia Erivo

As a gamer delving into the enchanting world of Oz, I found that certain events, like “Something Bad,” functioned as a vivid backdrop, helping to establish the atmosphere and foreshadow future events. Dr. Dillamond, my confidant among the animals, shared his concerns about their mysterious predicament – the loss of their voices. This intriguing plot point becomes pivotal in shaping Elphaba’s journey, driving her actions throughout our adventure together.

After this particular scene, the situation of the animals is not further explored or addressed significantly. Instead, the narrative continues to unfold in the background, and Dr. Dillamond, who delivered the poignant performance, appears infrequently, thus diminishing the emotional impact of his act.

8. One Short Day

Lead Performances: Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Idina Menzel, & Kristin Chenoweth

In this number titled “One Short Day“, the main performers are Glinda and Elphaba, accompanied by a vast ensemble, as they venture into the Emerald City for the first time on their journey to meet the Wizard. This tune marks the last glimmers of hope and positivity in the narrative before events start taking a darker turn. The melody perfectly encapsulates the atmosphere.

Additionally, this production boasts an extended guest appearance from Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, who played the main roles in the original run of “Wicked.” This is a tribute to their iconic work on Broadway. The scene includes several other notable cameos within its lively group number, but these appearances don’t have a major impact on the storyline.

7. Dancing Through Life

Lead Performances: Jonathan Bailey, Marrisa Bode, & Ariana Grande

The lively and carefree Prince Fiyero gets introduced in “Dancing Through Life”, as depicted in the play. Eager to unwind, the scholars plan a jubilant gathering at the Ozdust Ballroom, inspired by the captivating charm of the Prince.

This scene features a lively group performance that boasts some of the movie’s finest dance sequences. It also offers a particularly personal glimpse into the lives of Nessarose and her companions, making it likely to be one of the melodies that resonates most strongly in viewers’ memories once the end credits have played.

6. I’m Not That Girl

Lead Performance: Cynthia Erivo

In the continuation of the tale, the song “I’m Not That Girl” carries greater importance, as it is planned to be unveiled in Wicked Part 2. This melody is sung immediately following Elphaba and Fiyero’s heartfelt moment while they save a baby lion.

For a moment, Elphaba allows herself to believe that she could settle down and find normality with the dashing Prince, who is currently dating her best friend Glinda. “I’m Not That Girl” is Elphaba then grounding herself in reality and reaffirming her place on the outskirts of society. The song is a sorrowful reminder that, no matter how far she has come to this point, it’s still not far enough.

5. No One Mourns The Wicked

Lead Performance: Ariana Grande

This song is a fittingly epic introduction, as the citizens of Oz gleefully stare at the demise of the Wicked Witch of the West. “No One Mourns The Wicked” frames the movie beautifully, featuring some of the melody from “Defying Gravity” in the intro and then reprising it again during the climatic finale as the guards bay for Elphaba’s blood.

As someone captivated by the tale, I can say that it’s only after we’ve journeyed through the entire story that the weight of Elphaba’s fate truly resonates. It’s a poignant moment when Glinda, who was once a friend, leads the chorus of triumph and serves as a somber reminder of Elphaba’s inevitable downfall. The sad truth is, even the Wicked often meet their end alone.

4. What Is This Feeling?

Lead Performances: Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo

In a delightful and humorous rendition, the two main characters skillfully perform the number “What is This Feeling?” showcasing a palpable rapport. As they become more accustomed to their shared living space, Elphaba and Glinda openly voice their mutual disdain for one another.

As Glinda gains widespread approval from her companions, it underscores Elphaba’s longstanding sense of solitude. The captivating dance number, “What Is This Feeling?”, serves double duty by showcasing both a tender duet and a grand group performance.

3. The Wizard And I

Lead Performance: Cynthia Erivo & Michelle Yeoh

After a recent uncomfortable encounter with her fellow peers, Elphaba finds motivation from the renowned sorceress Madame Morrible. Filled with renewed conviction, she hastens out to express her deepest wish: To be acknowledged. This moment might well be the most joyful scene in the movie for Elphaba, as her burdens of anxiety are discarded, and she experiences freedom.

In the song “The Wizard,” Cynthia Erivo gets the chance to demonstrate her remarkable vocal abilities for the first time. Her performance is spine-tingling. The song carries deep meaning in her journey, not only exposing her motivations but also in its reprise during “Defying Gravity.” After she finds out that the Wizard is a fraud, Erivo powerfully declares Glinda as her true influence. This reaffirms their connection.

2. Popular

Lead Performance: Ariana Grande

Throughout the movie, Ariana Grande showcases a subtle duality, appearing both annoyingly arrogant and genuinely compassionate. She repays the audience’s faith in her character during the breathtaking scene at the Ozdust Ballroom when she dances with Elphaba in one of the film’s most touching sequences.

In this context, ‘Popular’ signifies her effort to reconcile with Elphaba and initiates their profound relationship. The song subtly maintains that dichotomy, portraying Glinda as kind-hearted yet somewhat superficial. It’s a touching moment and the tune is exceptionally melodious.

1. Defying Gravity

Lead Performances: Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande

The climactic scene in “Defying Gravity” movie powerfully conveys Elphaba’s emotional transformation, as skillfully portrayed by Cynthia Erivo. Notably, Ariana Grande lends her emotional and powerful vocals to the role of Glinda in this complex ballad performance.

The tune carries a mix of victory and sorrow, for Elphaba’s way of being has been about acceptance, yet she ends up embracing the label of villain given to her. In doing so, she perpetuates her status as an outcast. However, Elphaba chooses her principles over fitting in and remains firm and rebellious even against genuine wickedness.

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2024-12-07 11:05