First Time Seeing Ariana Acting in Wicked Movie—So I Have to Review This One

If you’re an Ariana Grande fan or someone who’s been following the buzz around the Wicked movie adaptation, chances are you’ve been eagerly anticipating this moment. Ariana Grande—known for her powerhouse vocals and undeniable stage presence—steps into uncharted territory by taking on the role of Glinda the Good Witch in this much-anticipated adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. As someone who had to witness this firsthand, I’m here to break down her performance, the movie’s broader context, and what it means for Ariana’s acting career.

Setting the Stage: What Is Wicked?

Before diving into Ariana’s performance, let’s get a quick overview of Wicked. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the story is a prequel and reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. It explores the complex relationship between Elphaba (the future Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda, along with themes of friendship, power, and societal expectations.

The musical has been a massive success since its Broadway debut in 2003, making this film adaptation a significant cultural moment—especially for fans who’ve waited nearly two decades for it to hit the big screen.

Ariana Grande as Glinda: The Big Question

When the casting news broke, reactions were mixed. Ariana Grande’s vocal abilities were never in doubt—her range and control make her a natural fit for Glinda’s signature songs, like “Popular” and “Thank Goodness.” But acting? That’s where the skepticism came in. Her previous roles in Victorious and Sam & Cat were fun but didn’t demand the dramatic depth required for Wicked. So, how did she fare?

A Closer Look at Her Performance

1. Vocal Brilliance

First things first: Ariana’s singing in Wicked is spectacular. She brings her signature style while staying true to the essence of Glinda’s character. Her rendition of “Popular” is not just a vocal showcase but also a comedic delight, blending her pop background with the playful, almost satirical tone of the song. The high notes, crystal-clear diction, and emotive delivery all shine, reminding us why she’s a Grammy-winning artist.

2. Acting Prowess

This is where Ariana surprises. Her portrayal of Glinda is layered and nuanced. She captures the character’s bubbly exterior while hinting at deeper insecurities and complexities. Her comedic timing is sharp, particularly in the early scenes, where Glinda’s vanity and charm take center stage. But it’s in the later, more emotional moments where Ariana truly impresses. Her chemistry with Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, is palpable, making their evolving friendship feel authentic and heartfelt.

3. Physicality and Presence

On stage, Glinda is known for her grand gestures and larger-than-life persona. Ariana embraces this with grace, using her physicality to convey Glinda’s transformation from a somewhat shallow figure to someone capable of genuine empathy. Her body language—whether it’s the exaggerated poses during “Popular” or the subtle shifts in serious scenes—is on point.

The Direction and Cinematography

Director Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, brings a visually stunning approach to Wicked. The Emerald City dazzles with intricate details, and the costumes are nothing short of breathtaking. Ariana’s Glinda benefits from this meticulous attention to aesthetics. Her gowns, tiaras, and overall styling make her every bit the “Good Witch” we’d imagined.

Chu’s direction ensures that the film balances spectacle with intimacy. He allows Ariana and Cynthia the space to develop their characters without being overshadowed by the grand visuals. The close-ups on Ariana during her emotional solos add depth to her performance, making it easier for audiences to connect with her journey.

How Does It Compare to Broadway?

Comparisons to the stage production are inevitable. Kristin Chenoweth’s portrayal of Glinda set a high bar, and Ariana’s interpretation is decidedly different. While Chenoweth leaned heavily into the character’s comedic and operatic qualities, Ariana brings a more contemporary flair. This might divide purists, but it’s a refreshing take that broadens Glinda’s appeal to a new generation.

Why This Role Matters for Ariana

Ariana Grande has been a global superstar for over a decade, but Wicked marks a turning point in her career. By taking on such a demanding role, she proves she’s more than just a singer. This performance could open doors for more acting opportunities, perhaps even in more dramatic or unconventional roles. It’s a bold move that showcases her versatility and willingness to take risks.

Fan Reactions

As expected, social media has been abuzz with reactions. Many fans have praised Ariana’s performance, highlighting her vocal and emotional range. Critics have also been generally favorable, with some noting her growth as an actress. Of course, there are detractors—no performance is immune to criticism—but the overwhelming consensus is that Ariana has exceeded expectations.

Final Thoughts

Seeing Ariana Grande act in Wicked for the first time is an experience I won’t forget. She brings her unique talent and perspective to Glinda, making the character feel fresh yet familiar. While the role might not be perfect, it’s a commendable debut in a project of this magnitude.

If you’re a fan of Wicked, Ariana, or simply curious about the movie, it’s worth watching. Not only does it deliver on its promise of a magical, emotional journey, but it also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Ariana Grande. And as someone who witnessed it firsthand, I can confidently say: she’s just getting started.