Ariana Grande,Cynthia Erivo Generate Oscar Buzz for ‘wicked’ Performances
los Angeles – Performances by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in the film adaptation of “Wicked” are positioning both actresses as potential Academy Award contenders,according to emerging awards season analysis. Grande’s portrayal of Glinda is being lauded as a fully realized performance balancing humor, heartbreak, and charisma, potentially placing her in the supporting actress conversation.
The film reportedly elevates the second act of the musical, notably the song “For Good,” which features a decisive acting moment for both Grande and Erivo-possibly the most decisive of their careers. The film also introduces two original songs penned by Stephen Schwartz: “No place Like Home,” sung by Erivo’s Elphaba, and “The Girl in the Bubble,” performed by Grande’s Glinda. While added songs to adapted musicals rarely achieve the same acclaim as the original material, the Music Branch has previously nominated and even awarded original songs from film adaptations, including ”Suddenly” from “Les Misérables” (2012), “Learn to be Lonely” from “The Phantom of the Opera” (2004), “I Move On” from “Chicago” (2002), “Take It All” from “Nine” (2009), and songs from “Dreamgirls” (2006).
Analysts suggest “The Girl in the Bubble” has a stronger chance of a nomination due to its placement later in the film, though the branch’s reverence for Schwartz could benefit both songs.
Beyond acting and music, “Wicked: For Good” is expected to contend strongly in technical categories, including production design, costume design (having previously won awards for these), makeup, sound, and visual effects, potentially securing a Best Picture nomination.
