When Universal Pictures announced it would split Wicked into two parts – Act 1 releasing on November 22, and Act 2 following on November 21, – it raised many eyebrows. The film adaptation of Wicked the musical, a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, follows the story of Glinda and Elphaba during their highschool years. The decision to have a year-long intermission, both a creative and financial one, has proven to keep the audience hooked. The year-long intermission between the two acts not only allows director Jon M. Chu, who directed Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, to explore the world of Oz more thoroughly, but it creates a uniquely immersive experience for the audience. I (Lulu) saw this firsthand when I went to watch Moana at the movie theater recently. As I was walking to my seat, I saw an older couple sitting in my seats. After checking that I had the right seat number, I asked if they were in the right theater. They looked around, a bit confused, then asked if I was here to see Wicked: Part Two. They thought it would be playing right after like a short intermission between acts at a play. It was clear they were so caught up in the story and genuinely eager to keep watching. That small moment said a lot about this decision’s success: the characters and world of Wicked had pulled them in so deeply that they weren’t ready to leave Oz just yet.
The director’s idea to split the Wicked story that previously was 2 hours and 45 minutes on Broadway into 2 full movies was an inventive approach to capture the storyline in a new light. Part 1 of Wicked the movie is 2 hours and 40 minutes, nearly the same length as the full story as the famous Broadway play. Part 1 dives deep into the characters, building the viewers’ relationship with them and making the viewers care for each character due to learning about their upbringings. Specifically, the viewers are able to get to know Elphaba better and sympathize with her before they see her as the evil witch from the Wizard of Oz. Part 2 allows for the viewers to have a year-long intermission to think about these dynamics, speculate, theorize, and revisit the first part before the sequel arrives. This makes the movie a part of the viewer’s minds for longer.it. Overall, the split between the story ensures that no part feels rushed and succeeds at grabbing the viewer’s attention and admiration.
Beyond the creative benefits, the year-long gap between films is also a genius marketing move. By splitting Wicked into two installments, Universal maximizes box office returns: two separate films mean two theatrical runs, two rounds of home releases, and double the potential for merchandise sales. Each release cycle offers opportunities to re-engage audiences and expand the franchise’s cultural influence. Because of this, streaming platforms are likely to compete for exclusive rights to Wicked, increasing demand and boosting long-term revenue. As noted by OnStage Blog, “Two films mean two separate home releases, each of which will generate income through digital rentals, Blu-ray sales, and eventual streaming deals.” Already, as of February 20, Wicked has grossed approximately 727.84 million U.S. dollars worldwide, according to Statista. The extended timeline ensures that Wicked stays in the public eye for much longer than a traditional single release would allow.
Overall, director Jon M. Chu made an innovative decision to split the play into two parts which more than doubles the length of the play and the viewer’s attention by expanding on the character development the play already established. Since Act 1’s release, fans have taken it upon themselves to create TikTok edits capturing Glinda and Elpeba’s friendship. Friendship and trust are the staples to Elpheba’s life, and ultimately the lack of them leads her to becoming the evil witch. Through fostering the connection between the characters and viewers by strengthening the sympathy we feel with Elphaba and other characters Jon M. Chu gained a loyal fan base that views Elphaba as the victim not the villain. As these devoted fans await part 2, there is substantial growth in profit for this storyline. With this captivating plot remaining in the viewers’ minds, the delay for part 2 only heightens the anticipation that will keep the interest of audiences through this prolonged intermission.
