Universal is revealing “ Wicked ” to Academy voters and media as the film adaptation of the global musical juggernaut finally heads for screens November 22. On Sunday afternoon, the Academy screening at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre on Wilshire drew some 900 attendees, the best showing since last year’s “Oppenheimer,” and drew a rousing standing ovation as the credits rolled. On Friday night, when the DGA hosted a screening and Q&A for SAG and Academy members as well as press, attendees were also ebullient.
(Sandwiched between the two was the film’s Hollywood premiere.) With a hit show whetting appetites for the screen version, many fans turned up at these screenings. However, it will not be boosted by critics groups at year’s end.
They will want to support other, less commercial prospects. When reviews come in and box office numbers climb, we’ll see where “Wicked” winds up in the Oscar race. The patience of producer Marc Platt (“La La Land”), a three-time Best Picture nominee, paid off.
He waited a decade, letting the musical show play out around the world, before going forward with the movie directed by Jon M. Chu (“Crazy Rich Asians”). It stars Broadway musical vet and Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo (“Harriet”), who meets expectations, and pop star Ariana Grande , who exceeds them.
Both could land Oscar nominations for Best Actress and Supporting Actress, respectively, and the film will be bolstered by the musical category at the Golden Globes. Ca.