The first full “Wicked” movie trailer for 2025 has arrived, showcasing stunning visuals and powerhouse performances. Will it redefine musical cinema?
First Look: “Wicked” Movie Trailer Breaks the Internet
The wait is finally over! Universal Pictures has unleashed the first full trailer for Wicked (2025), the highly anticipated big-screen adaptation of Broadway’s beloved musical. Within hours of release, the trailer crossed 10 million views, with fans and critics praising Ariana Grande’s Glinda and Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba. The 2.5-minute preview offers glimpses of Oz’s magical landscapes, show-stopping musical numbers, and the chemistry between the lead stars.
This $145 million production could be 2025’s biggest cinematic event—here’s why it matters.
Trailer Breakdown: 5 Key Moments
- “Defying Gravity” Tease
- Erivo’s powerhouse vocals in the climactic number
- Breathtaking visuals of Elphaba soaring over Oz
- Glinda’s Entrance
- Grande descending in a giant bubble (faithful to stage version)
- Perfect comedic timing in “Popular” snippet
- Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard
- First look at his mysterious, charismatic portrayal
- Emerald City Reveal
- Stunning CGI bringing the iconic location to life
- Elphaba & Glinda’s Bond
- Emotional moments hinting at their complex friendship
“The visuals exceed expectations, but it’s the casting that shines,” tweeted Variety film critic Courtney Howard.
Why This Adaptation Matters
• Cultural Phenomenon: Stage musical has grossed $5 billion worldwide
• All-Star Team: Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians)
• Two-Part Saga: Part 1 (Nov 2025), Part 2 (Nov 2026)
• Broadway Roots: Original composer Stephen Schwartz involved
Industry analysts predict it could revive the movie musical genre after Cats (2019) disappointment.
Early Reactions & Social Media Buzz
Positive Trends:
✔ #WickedMovie trending #1 worldwide
✔ “Defying Gravity” snippet praised as “Oscar-worthy”
✔ Costume designs hailed for creativity
Criticisms:
➔ Some fans want more Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) footage
➔ Concerns over splitting story into two films
“Ariana IS Glinda. That’s the tweet,” wrote pop culture commentator Perez Hilton.
What to Expect Next
• Soundtrack Preview: Due September 2025
• Character Posters: Rolling out weekly
• Extended “Defying Gravity” Clip: Rumored for Comic-Con
Insiders suggest the marketing budget could exceed $200M—on par with Barbie‘s campaign.
Box Office Predictions
Early tracking suggests:
→ $80-100M opening weekend (U.S.)
→ Strong international appeal
→ Potential to outgross The Greatest Showman ($435M)
“This could be the Harry Potter of musicals,” said Deadline‘s Anthony D’Alessandro.
Final Verdict: Worth the 20-Year Wait?
While purists debate changes from the stage version, the trailer confirms Wicked retains the heart of its source material. With its stellar cast, visionary director, and timeless story, this adaptation might just make us all believe in magic again.
Mark your calendars: November 26, 2025, could redefine movie musical history.
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