2. Wicked
The Musical: Stephen Schwartzs Wicked Broadways consistent number-one musical for nearly a decade hardly needs an introduction. The immensely popular show is a twist on the classic Wizard of Oz, telling the story of how the feisty but golden-hearted student Elphaba became the Wicked Witch of the West, and details her unlikely relationship with the good witch Glinda. Entertaining but resonant, the story of friendship, love, and what it means to be good has struck chords with audiences worldwide.
Why The Movies Worth Watching: Another movie musical that owes its potential existence to the success of Les Mis, the adaptation of Wicked, though probably not seeing the silver screen for a few years, is definitely in progress. In fact, its imperative it not be rushed to cash in on Les Mis popularity, because this movie has colossal potential, the universality of its source material notwithstanding. For one, Wickeds darker but picturesque Oz, already detailed in gorgeous set pieces on Broadway, should translate into a positively stunning movie, capitalizing on films visual potential. The plot of social injustice in Oz, too, can be given more spotlight and depth in a film. Whats more, with relatable and familiar songs hilarious, emotional and empowering in turn that have enough dialogue to support them, even the less theatrically inclined filmgoers will be singing along with the best of them, cheering along realistic and likable characters as they struggle with exclusion, love, and morality. If done right, Wickeds music should feel like the lifeblood of the film, not extraneous but rather the vein that connects the story to the heart of the characters journeys its less operatic score will undoubtedly help warm movie fans to it. Essentially, if Wicked the film isnt a mere half-hearted rehash of the show, is cast correctly, and is creatively re-imagined to suit a medium that it might as well be made for without losing its wit and the heart at the core of the show then it will undoubtedly be a gravity-defying success.