Famous Broadway show Wicked is set to hit the big screen later this year and the first official trailer dropped on Wednesday, sending fans into a frenzy.
The stage show's conversion to a film has been shrouded in doubt since its development was first announced in 2012. However, it's shaping up to be an unmissable trip to the cinema for theatre fans, with many poised to watch it 'a million times'.
But just what else do we know about Wicked's film adaptation?
The cast of Wicked
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo will helm Wicked as Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, Wicked Witch of the West, respectively.
Bridgerton's Jonathan Bailey has adopted the role of Fiyero while Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh will play Madame Morrible.
Many fans are excited that quirky actor Jeff Goldblum, Jurassic Park's Ian Malcolm, has taken on the role of the Wizard of Oz. Ariana's new beau Ethan Slater will play Boq, a Munchkin in love with Glinda- a fairly fitting translation from real life to film.
The story is being split in two
Wicked will be told in two parts. The first is set to hit cinemas on November 27 and the second is due for release in November 2025.
Songwriter Stephen Schwartz explained: 'Part one will likely end with Defying Gravity, the end of act one.' He went on to explain that the powerful ballad will be the curtain closer for the first part of the project. 'That song is written specifically to bring a curtain down, and whatever scene to follow it without a break just seemed hugely anti-climactic,' he said.
Director Jon M. Chu added in a statement: ‘With more space, we can tell the story of Wicked as it was meant to be told while bringing even more depth and surprise to the journeys for these beloved characters.'
The trailer
With just over six months to go before Wicked: Part 1 is released in cinemas, the first official trailer has landed and it's magical!
While the nearly four-minute-long clip showcases Ariana and Cynthia in their roles as Glinda and Elphaba, it also gives fans a first hearing of iconic Wicked tracks from Popular to Defying Gravity.
How does Wicked's original stage cast feel about the adaptation?
Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth were the original actresses to play Elphaba and Glinda on Broadway. When casting for the film adaptation was announced, Kristin was among the first to congratulate Ariana.
'I’m not sure if I’ve ever been this proud,' the actress tweeted at the time. 'From the very first day I met you, you were destined for this role. Congratulations @ArianaGrande! The best Glinda you will be with Cynthia by your side I love you!!'
We can't wait to watch it! We're sensing this film adaptation is going to be very Popular indeed!
