Wicked, San Jose and More!
2024.11.27
Song of the day:
Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving however you choose to celebrate. I know this can be a hard day/time of year for many of you, and I pray that you feel love and peace.
I’ve got a lot to share today from my thoughts on Wicked to my quick trip to San Jose to random and sundry things happening in Colorado, so let’s get started…
My history with Wicked is pretty lackluster. I read the book over 20 years ago and did not like it. I can’t tell you why I didn’t like it at this point as I didn’t think about it much after I read the last page. It’s possible that because I have always loved the Wizard of Oz and adored The Wiz that this backstory just wasn’t for me. Shortly after reading the book I saw the musical on stage in San Francisco. And it was fine. I didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it. I guess I didn’t feel much about it at all.
At some point after that the songs showed up on Glee, and I realized that Defying Gravity and Popular were actually pretty good songs, but they were completely out of context from the musical so again, I didn’t think much about them other than enjoying the cast of Glee’s performances. For years I heard people talk about Wicked like I talk about my favorite musicals, but I never got it. I had no interest in seeing the musical again, and never bothered to listen to the full soundtrack. I knew Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth from other work and loved them both, but never needed to hear them sing the Wicked music.
When I read that they were doing a movie version of the musical I had no interest. I saw the excitement online about it and knew John Chu was a great choice of director (I loved In the Heights and Crazy Rich Asians), but didn’t think I’d ever see it. I read about Ariana Grande being cast and thought it was a fine choice. I’ve never been a fan of her music but always knew she was incredibly talented. And so I went about my merry way. And then I read that Cynthia Erivo was cast and had to pause for a moment. Because Cynthia Erivo is, quite literally, wickedly talented, and I thought well, maybe…and then I saw the first preview. And the second. And however many there were and was completely sucked in. It was beautiful, and the clips of the singing from both Ariana and Cynthia were outstanding. And then came Michelle Yeoh and well, I could no longer come up with a reason not to see the movie. I knew I might not like it, but I was sure I could appreciate the performances. And so, a week ago, I took myself to the theatre, wearing my pink and green mind you, because why not? And y’all. How did I sleep so long on this musical?! Was I just not ready for it all those years ago? Did this production and John Chu’s incredible vision combined with Cynthia and Ariana, not to mention Jonathan Bailey, actually make me love Wicked? Yes. Yes it did.
I have been listening to the soundtrack since I walked out of the theatre, and will tell anyone who asks how great it was. And it was everything. This movie is nothing short of amazing, even if you’ve never read the book or seen the stage production. Even if you had no love for Wicked before. If you’ve seen even one interview with Cynthia and Ariana you know that they have become the best of friends and that chemistry shined through, even when they weren’t exactly the best of friends in the movie. They play well off each other and their voices blend beautifully, as if they were both born to play these roles which, quite frankly, maybe they were. There is very little CGI in the movie, which is refreshing. They built these massive sets and actually planted 9 million tulips! Everyone sang LIVE while filming and doing stunts, which no one ever does in a movie musical, and I think it made all the difference. John Chu might be an actual wizard. And the cast definitely has a little magic in them as well.
Ariana Grande’s comedic timing and facial expressions as she embodies Galinda/Glinda were impressive, and of course she can flat out sing. Jonathan Bailey’s singing, dancing, smirking, smiling and generally standing there looking beautiful was worth the price of admission. Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum are perfectly cast, as are the various other big - and not so big - names in the show. But at the end of the day, this movie is owned by Cynthia Erivo. Every time she’s on screen - which is nearly every scene - is mesmerizing. She’s strong, funny, sassy, beautiful and has a voice like no other. She IS the moment. And will be for quite some time.
A final note, there are a ton of Easter eggs in the film including several tips to the original Wizard of Oz movie and a few to the stage production. I doubt I caught them all, but I’m sure someone on the internet will confirm for me. I can’t wait for Part 2 next year!! But until then, I’m gonna head back to the theatre and see this one a few more times.
And if you’re still not sure about this movie, please also read my friend Kirsten’s review of the movie. We can’t both be wrong…
San Jose
When I left San Jose in July I knew I’d be back. I have a lot of friends there and planned to visit at some point. I also knew I would be back to see the retirement of my favorite hockey player’s jersey, which is what prompted last weekend’s quick trip. I was able to see a number of friends and am sorry I couldn’t see everyone - next time for sure! I got to eat at my favorite Mexican place with several different friends, had breakfast at my favorite local spot with other friends, and enjoyed the hockey game and post-game festivities with even more friends. I was also able to catch the Come From Away musical with another friend - one of my favorites. On my last day in town I popped into my old spa for a facial with my favorite esthetician (and friend) and finished up my trip with a little shopping and lunch with one more friend. All in all it was a great trip, but in addition to seeing friends, the highlight was the retirement of Joe Thornton’s #19 jersey. What an incredible thing to witness live. There were stories and laughter and a few tears shed (some by me, some by Jumbo, some by his family and friends), but seeing his jersey number rise to the ceiling of the arena was incredibly moving. I’ll never forget it. Here are a few images of the quick trip…hope to be back soon and see even more of you (and eat at more places!).
It rained a lot when I was in San Jose, and today’s it snowing in Colorado. This is our second snow this month. We had seven inches a few weeks ago and probably have two inches or so today. We’re not expecting much more than that. It’s beautiful. Especially when I don’t have to be anywhere. Yeah, being retired ROCKS.
This month I’ve seen a few movies, watched a lot of Hallmark Christmas movies (it’s the most wonderful time of the year!), read a couple of books, attended the symphony, attended a composer talk with one of my dearest friends whom I’ve known since 8th grade, decorated for Christmas, went to the Denver ChristKindl Market, and ate a lot of good food.
Movies
Here - We did not love this. I’d give it 2 stars because the acting is good, but the story was not my favorite
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever - So good! Definitely 5 stars. The story’s been around forever, and was a made-for-TV movie a million years ago, but this is a great version that I highly recommend.
Red One - I liked it. It entertained me. And Chris Evans is on screen most of the time. But is it a great movie? No. It’s silly. I’d give it 3 stars.
Wicked - Obviously 5 stars. See all the details above.
Moana 2 - We’re seeing this tomorrow. I’m not expecting much, but I loved the first one so we’ll see.
Books
The Takedown by Lily Chu - I love all her books, and this one is great, too!
The Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang - So good! Especially if you love San Francisco and history.
So, I think that’s everything…at least for now. Hope you’re doing well and staying warm and cozy wherever you are. Until next time…
Video of the day:
This looks like a cute movie…and Ed’s song is lovely, obviously.
Glad your trip went well
Snowing here today.l
Will have time with a few friends later today.
Wicked was so good! I rarely see movies in the theatre and never more than once but I want to see this again (& again & again...)
I did see the musical but it was so many years ago I don't really remember much except the amazing songs. I know I liked it but the movie is better