Hello, friends! Welcome to a first-time episode of “Friends of NOT Disney!” Today, we’re excited to discuss our first non-Disney movie, “Wicked,” which was released in theaters this last weekend.

“Wicked” is a screen adaptation of the popular Broadway musical that premiered 20 years ago. The musical follows the story of two young women, Elphaba and Galinda (also known as Glinda), who grow up in the magical land of Oz. Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth play the lead roles, and their performances have been widely acclaimed.

The movie takes place before the events of the classic 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.” It explores the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and the Good Witch of the North, Glinda. We see how their lives intertwine and shape the events that unfold in the Wizard of Oz.

The movie features a talented cast of actors who have personal connections to the musical. Ariana Grande plays Glinda, Cynthia Erivo portrays Elphaba, Michelle Yeoh stars as Madam Morrible, Jonathan Bailey portrays Fiyero, and Jeff Goldblum plays the Wizard.

“Wicked” has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. The musical has won 33 awards, including 10 Tony Awards, 11 Drama Desk Awards, 10 Outer Critics Circle Awards, and a Grammy.

Join us as we celebrate the history of this beloved musical and explore how well the movie adaptation honors its source material.