Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in 'Wicked.' 

As far as film adaptations of stage musicals go, the Jon M. Chu-directed big-budget "Wicked" is about as faithful to its source material as could be conceived, staying true to the Broadway hit’s world-building, iconic characters, and penchant for spectacle.

Those familiar with the stage version, whether they saw it in the two times the international tour has graced Philippine theaters (first in 2014, and a second time in 2017) or abroad (as it is currently still playing at the Gershwin Theatre on Broadway and has been there since 2003), might find that the musical’s big-screen turn leaves no stone unturned when it came to telling the same story as a cinematic experience and nearly in the same way, with the film using its hefty 2 hours and 45 minute running time (that only spans the length of the first act), largely enriching elements that might not have been able to get ample time during the stage version.

Indeed, if you’re a fan of musicals, and especially if you’re a fan of this specific musical, you might find your trip to the cinema a fun one. It’s unapologetically bombastic, the world unfolding on screen bright and busy, colorful and detailed that is an homage, not just to the stage production design it’s adapting, but even to the original 1939 film starring Judy Garland.

'Wicked' origins

"Wicked" is the origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West, or Elphaba, as imagined by the author Gregory Maguire who wrote the book (same title) on which the stage musical was loosely based. In "Wicked," she is born green, and largely ostracized for it, even within her own family. The story–and the film–largely follows her story, especially her time in Shiz University where she learns how to harness her powers, befriends her goat professor Dr. Dillamond, and most importantly, meets Galinda. This perky, popular, and perennially pink-clad blonde seems to be the direct inverse of her. They initially start as rivals, but quickly evolve into best friends and one of musical theater’s most iconic duos.

This "Wicked," as previously mentioned, only covers the first act of the musical. While this choice was initially met with criticism as it has become a trend in recent years to split one intellectual property into multiple movies to possibly double box office returns, the decision to give each act its own movie makes sense here. Not only does the show lend itself well to an enticing cliffhanger that the movie stays true to, but the film is also able to articulate themes of the "Wicked" story that usually get lost in the stage production’s theatrics, specifically the lore around talking animals (of which the Cowardly Lion in "The Wizard of Oz" belongs) and their increasing persecution that becomes part of Elphaba’s raison d’etre and the cause of the rift between herself and the Wizard that will be explored further in Part II (out next year).

There’s a lot more meat in this movie, but none that feel unnecessary. If the film has excesses, it’s in turning up the bombast, the unapologetic staginess, and high-octane production numbers (and production design) to fill the liveliness that one might experience if they’re watching a live production. Chu has arguably crafted the "Wicked" fan’s dream movie, stuffing his adaptation full of as many of the little details from the stage version as he could as possible.

The right cohorts

The visual bloat even helps make sure none of its inhabitants feel bigger than the Oz on screen, not even the assemblage of A-listers -- pop star Ariana Grande chief among them. That isn’t to say that the film’s leads and supporting cast didn’t deliver (literally) pitch-perfect performances as they stepped into the big shoes of their characters.

The central duo of Cynthia Erivo (as Elphaba) and Grande (as Glinda) give symbiotic performances both in the musicality needed for the songs, the physicalities of their characters, and the genuine friendship that leaps off the stage. Erivo deftly shows Elphaba’s defiance throughout the film but is similarly well able to give off vulnerability for the film’s emotional beats. Grande, for her part, manages to give a Glinda with so much heart that the initial rivalry (that even involves a callous attempt at intentionally humiliating Elphaba) between herself and Elphaba might be the most artificial element in the entire film.

Jonathan Bailey (of "Bridgerton" fame) gives audiences a proper Disney prince performance as Fiyero -- dashing, mischievous with a sense of innocence about him. Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible is most entertaining in her naked interest for Elphaba and similarly naked disdain for Glinda. Jeff Goldblum once again plays a version of the same type of character he always plays as the Wizard, and as always, it works. Even Peter Dinklage as the voice of Dr. Dillamond is an inspired choice.

If you’re even a little bit familiar with "Wicked," it would be hard not to be pleased with this movie especially as it seems purposely crafted for fans of the original musical, fans of musical theater, and fans of musicals. If you are not, well, there is no better introduction to the behemoth musical brand.