Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo Eye Oscars

Universal’s “Wicked” has finally been revealed to members of the film press, who are praising Jon M. Chu’s adaptation of the hit Broadway musical. The film’s leads, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, are also earning raves across the board as the musical launches them into Oscar season as acting contenders.

Variations Katcy Stephen hailed the “Wicked” movie as a “masterpiece,” adding, “Ariana Grande makes Glinda sparkle: she milks every moment with gusto, humor, and hair flips. Jon M. Chu added so much new life to the story that I can see why it had to be 2 parts! Worth the 20 year wait.”

Journalist Simon Thompson was impressed by the film’s spectacle, calling it an “absolutely stunning vision. Leads Erivo and Grande knock it out of the park. While this might not convert many anti-musical folk, genre fans and die-hard Ozians (Wickhards?) enjoy this.”

“Jon M. Chu, Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande have given us a musical masterpiece that is much more than we could have ever expected.” Variations Jazz Tangcay wrote. “Ariana & Cynthia will blow you away. The production design and costumes are a visual spectacle.”

Let me put it out there: I’m an “evil” fanatic. I saw the original Broadway production with Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth in their iconic roles as the misunderstood Elphaba and the effortlessly popular Glinda. It’s hard to forget the magic they conjured on stage, so I approached “Crazy Rich Asians” director Jon M. Chu’s film adaptation with cautious optimism. But 60 seconds into the opening track, “No One Mourns the Wicked,” my skepticism disappeared.

As Glinda, Ariana Grande brings charm and wit to a character known for her bubbly exterior and hidden depth. The 31-year-old pop star commands each of Glinda’s signature numbers, including a delightful rendition of “Popular.” But it’s her knack for comedic timing that makes her so memorable. Her delivery of various one-liners and zingers is one of the film’s highlights, potentially positioning her for a first-time Oscar nomination in the Best Supporting Actress category. It wouldn’t be the first time a pop star successfully transitioned to the Dolby Theater: Cher won best actress for “Moonstruck” a few years after her first nom in “Silkwood,” proving that pop stars can shine just about anywhere if in the right role. This role is the one Grande was born to play.

The Supporting Actor category has long been a welcoming home for musical acts. From Meryl Streep’s nomination in “Into the Woods” to Catherine Zeta-Jones’ win in “Chicago,” the Academy has often honored actresses who can show off their singing chops. However, Grande faces competition this year from a pair of other multi-hyphenate Oscar hopefuls, including Selena Gomez for her Spanish-language musical role in “Emilia Pérez” and Jennifer Lopez in the sports biopic “Unstoppable.” Unfortunately, Lady Gaga’s hopes for awards for “Joker 2” seem dashed amid the film’s negative reviews and poor box office sales.

Alongside Grande is Cynthia Erivo, a powerful actress with a Tony Award for “The Color Purple” and an Oscar nomination for portraying Harriet Tubman in “Harriet.” Here, Erivo takes on Elphaba, the “wicked” witch whose misunderstood nature underscores a longing to be accepted by those around her. Erivo brings his own inflections and depth to the role, portraying a character who, despite his undeniable powers, feels forever out of place in Oz. Erivo’s chances in the lead actress category may be far more difficult than her co-star’s due to the competitive landscape. While musical performances can be Oscar gold — Jennifer Hudson’s win for “Dreamgirls” is a prime example — voters don’t always embrace the genre, and Erivo’s fate may hinge on “Wicked’s” overall awards momentum.

But can “Wicked Part One” secure a place among the best picture nominees of the year?

Its path lies in the artisanal categories, as technical nominations can boost a film’s chances for best picture recognition. While not a foolproof strategy, nominations for directing, acting and screenplay can propel a musical into the top category. The screenplay category has traditionally been tough for musicals; only one has won in the adapted category — 1958’s “Gigi” — and only four have been nominated.

“Wicked’s” production team brings a ton of Oscar pedigree to the table. Six-time nominee Nathan Crowley, known for Christopher Nolan films such as “The Prestige,” “Dunkirk” and “Interstellar,” takes on bright backdrops and creates an Oz that feels both familiar and reimagined. Oscar-nominated costume designer Paul Tazewell (“West Side Story”) adds to the film’s visual grandeur. Meanwhile, the makeup and hairstyling team shine with Elphaba’s vibrant green skin and Glinda’s signature blonde curls popping up on the big screen.

Sound and visual effects categories may also work in “Wicked’s” favor. Musicals often find success in sound (see past winners like “Les Misérables” and “Dreamgirls”), and “Wicked’s” sprawling landscapes — complete with flying monkeys and busy train scenes — showcase the kind of visual spectacle the Academy sometimes rewards.

While “Wicked Part One” lacks an original song – sources suggest that Part Two, due in 2025, will introduce many original compositions. With a talented team and two powerful leads, “Wicked” is poised to defy Oscar gravity if the campaign aims high enough.

Check out the initial reactions to “Wicked” in the posts below.