Life and Art from FT Weekend Culture chat: ‘Wicked’ hits the high notes
Nov 22, 2024
Anna Nicolaou, U.S. media editor for the Financial Times, and Eric Platt, Senior corporate finance correspondent for the same publication, share their insights from the New York premiere of the film adaptation of 'Wicked.' They discuss the film's faithfulness to the beloved Broadway musical and explore its themes of friendship and societal issues. The duo highlights standout performances, especially by Ariana Grande, and reflects on the storytelling's evolution from 'The Wizard of Oz'. They also touch on personal media preferences and the cultural landscape of modern entertainment.
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Ariana Grande's Standout Comedy
- Ariana Grande's comedic timing resonated strongly and added joy to the film experience.
- Both laughter and tears came naturally, highlighting the emotional and comedic balance achieved.
Wicked's Political Core
- Wicked explores how societies need a common enemy, often scapegoating outsiders unfairly.
- The story parallels modern political scenarios, showcasing the enduring nature of this dynamic.
Wicked's Layered Adaptation Legacy
- Wicked is part of a layered legacy of adaptations, showing storytelling's evolution over decades.
- Despite many remakes, the story's themes remain fresh and relevant to new audiences.
