Should fans sing along in theaters during the “Wicked” movie?
“Wicked: Part 1,” arguably the most anticipated movie of the holiday season, has sparked debate about how audiences should behave during screenings of the musical, which opens in theaters this weekend.
To sing along, or not to sing along
Theater chain AMC urged audiences to remain quiet during screenings. However, some fans have strong opinions about whether they should be allowed to sing.
logo read“For guests attending ‘Wicked,’ we ask that you all enjoy the movie experience. Please do not sing during the show.”
some online agree Working with AMC, they said they wanted to hear the voices of the stars, not the audience. A moviegoer comes to the cinema with a poster read“Attention Ozians: Beautiful (or not), please don’t sing!”
Others debate Because this movie is a musical, people should be allowed to sing, especially on opening weekend.
“I say, if it’s your first time, sing to the end,” said actress Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba in the film. interview In partnership with StayTunedNBC. “But one more time, let us sing to you.”
Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda, added that she understands the “tempting” urge for people to want to sing along, but also respects why people don’t. If someone throws popcorn, she said, “Maybe stop.”
However, there is hope for those who have songs in their hearts. AMC will reportedly release a sing-along version in select North American theaters on Christmas Day, just over a month after the film premieres. type.
Max Scissotti/Dave Bennett/WireImage
Who’s part of the star-studded cast?
Erivo is a Tony Award- and Grammy Award-winning British actress and singer who rose to fame starring in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple. She was also nominated for an Oscar for her role as Harriet Tubman in the 2019 biopic Harriet.
Grande is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and actor who began her career on Broadway in 13 before appearing in several Nickelodeon shows. She is widely known as a pop star with hits including “7 Rings” and “Thank U, Next.”
Jonathan Bailey plays Fiyero, a prince and Elphaba’s love interest. Bailey rose to fame starring in the Netflix series “Bridgerton” and has a musical background in West End productions such as “Les Misérables” and “Company.”
Boq, the love interest of Elphaba’s sister Nessarose, is played by Ethan Slater, who played SpongeBob SquarePants in Broadway’s “SpongeBob SquarePants.”
Academy Award-winning icon Michelle Yeoh plays Madame Morrible, the president of Seeds University. Her most recent success came from starring in Everything Happens at the Same Time. President Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year.
The famous actor Jeff Goldblum plays the wizard. Two of his most famous blockbusters include “Jurassic Park” and “Independence Day.” He also played critically acclaimed roles in Wes Anderson’s films and appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Dr. Dillamond is the goat professor at Sheeds University, played by award-winning actor Peter Dinklage. He is best known for playing Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones.
“Saturday Night Live” star and comedian Bowen Yang plays Pfanny, one of Glinda’s friends.
Keala Settle is best known for her role in The Greatest Showman and as Angelique/Nurse in the West End musical Juliet, where she played Miss Cordell. The original character was created for the 2024 film.
What is it about (no spoilers)? What else to know
Wicked: Part One is the first of a two-part film series based on the musical Wicked, based on the book Wicked by Gregory Maguire. This is a remake of The Wizard of Oz.
The 2024 film tells the story of the unlikely friendship between the good witch Glinda and the evil witch Elphaba as college roommates. The two venture to Oz to meet the wizard.
Running time is 2 hours and 44 minutes. Fans shouldn’t expect a post-credits scene after the movie.
“Wicked: Part 2” is expected to be released on November 21, 2025.
What is a “flash”?
A November Fandango survey found that nearly 65% ​​of moviegoers would be interested in seeing a “Wicked” and “Gladiator II” double feature in theaters. Both movies were released on the same weekend.
The film set is called “Glicked,” and is reminiscent of 2023’s “Barbenheimer.”
