After the disaster of “Cats,” the world seemed to lose its faith in movie musicals.
The silver screen has long been captivated by the allure of the musical. Few genres can immerse audiences in such a complete experience. In recent decades, the relationship between musicals and mainstream cinema has been less than harmonious.
For every critically acclaimed hit like “La La Land,” there’s been a misfire like “Cats,” which left many wondering if Hollywood had lost its way in adapting Broadway to film.
Released in 2019, “Cats” was meant to be an ambitious translation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved stage production. Instead, it became a cautionary tale of what happens when spectacle overshadows substance. Critics and audiences alike derided its unsettling visual effects, confusing creative choices and disjointed execution.
The film’s reliance on computer-generated imagery to transform its A-list cast into feline hybrids resulted in what many described as a bizarre and unsettling visual experience. The “Cats” adaptation also suffered from a lack of clear narrative coherence, leaving viewers unsure of its tone and purpose. While the stage production had long been celebrated for its whimsical charm and iconic music, the film’s technical missteps overshadowed its artistic potential.
The released adaptation of “Wicked” — already a Broadway phenomenon — reignited not just interest in the genre, but a broader cultural appreciation for movie musicals.
“Wicked,” based on Gregory Maguire’s reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz,” has already cemented its place in the cultural zeitgeist since its 2003 Broadway debut. The story’s themes of misunderstood villains, the consequences of power and enduring female friendships continue to resonate today.
The decision to split the adaptation into two films, usually reserved for epic sagas, demonstrates the filmmakers’ commitment to giving this complex story — and its iconic score by Stephen Schwartz — the space it deserves.
With a powerhouse cast that includes Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the film promises to combine Broadway’s emotional depth with Hollywood’s star power.
Director Jon M. Chu, known for his stunning visuals in “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights,” ensures that this adaptation will be more than just a faithful rendition; it’s a film designed for the big screen, with its own cinematic style.
At its core, “Wicked” is a story about connection — between friends, ideologies and worlds. Its upcoming film adaptation is a reminder that musicals can still connect audiences in ways other genres can. It’s also a sign that Hollywood may have learned from past missteps, striving to honor the essence of beloved stage productions while embracing the unique possibilities of cinema.
“Wicked” has ushered in a new era for movie musicals, proving that despite past missteps, the genre still holds power in the modern film landscape.
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Valeria Nalani is a student at the University of Arizona studying Business Management.
