Article by FMT / 5-minute read
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When Universal Pictures released Wicked on November 22, 2024, audiences were swept away by more than just its dazzling visuals and star-studded cast. This first installment of a two-part cinematic adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical brought Stephen Schwartz’s beloved songs to the big screen, paired with a fresh orchestral score co-composed by Schwartz and John Powell. Released by Republic Records on December 6, 2024, Wicked: The Original Motion Picture Score weaves a sonic tapestry that enhances the film’s emotional depth and fantastical world-building. Recorded at legendary studios like AIR Studios and Abbey Road Studios in London, the score has already earned an Oscar nomination for 2025, cementing its place as a standout achievement in film music.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked reimagines the origins of Oz’s witches, focusing on the unlikely friendship between Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (played by Ariana Grande). The film’s music bridges the gap between Schwartz’s theatrical roots and Powell’s cinematic expertise, known for scores like How to Train Your Dragon and The Bourne Identity. Together, they craft a soundscape that honors the stage musical’s legacy while expanding its reach into a lush, immersive experience. This article delves into how their collaboration shapes Wicked, spotlighting ten key musical moments that define the film’s heart and soul.
The score of Wicked doesn’t just play in the background—it’s a character in its own right, guiding viewers through the emotional highs and lows of Oz. Below are ten tracks that showcase Powell and Schwartz’s brilliance, each paired with a look at how they enhance the film and a bit of behind-the-scenes trivia.
Standout Musical Moments in Wicked
“Arrival at Shiz University”
In the Film: As Elphaba and Glinda arrive at Shiz University, “Arrival at Shiz University” bursts forth with a triumphant orchestral swell. The music captures the bustling energy of the campus—students chattering, buildings gleaming—while hinting at the adventures ahead. Strings soar as the camera pans across the vibrant set, introducing the magical world with a sense of awe and possibility.
Trivia: This track, released as a promotional single on November 27, 2024, sets the tone for the score’s blend of grandeur and intimacy. Powell drew inspiration from his How to Train Your Dragon work, using bold brass to evoke a sense of discovery, while Schwartz ensured the melody echoed the musical’s iconic overture.
“Our Heroes Meet”
In the Film: When Elphaba and Glinda first cross paths, “Our Heroes Meet” underscores their awkward introduction with a delicate mix of piano and strings. The music shifts from tentative to warm, mirroring their initial clash and budding connection. It’s subtle but effective, laying the groundwork for their transformative bond.
Trivia: Powell admitted in a BroadwayWorld interview that he approached this as an outsider to Wicked, letting the characters’ emotions guide the melody. The result is a piece that feels fresh yet tied to Schwartz’s “Dear Old Shiz” theme.
“Elphaba’s Power”
In the Film: The moment Elphaba reveals her magical abilities, “Elphaba’s Power” erupts with a haunting “Dark Magic” theme. Low strings and eerie woodwinds build tension as she levitates a coin, hinting at her untamed potential. The music crescendos, reflecting her inner turmoil and the awe of those around her.
Trivia: Powell crafted this original theme to follow Elphaba throughout the film, a decision he discussed in a YouTube video. It’s one of the few new motifs he introduced, designed to feel distinct yet woven into Schwartz’s existing material.
“How to Loathe Your Roommate”
In the Film: Glinda’s attempts to “improve” Elphaba as roommates spark hilarity, and “How to Loathe Your Roommate” matches the antics with a playful, staccato rhythm. Clarinets and pizzicato strings dance around each other, amplifying the scene’s lighthearted chaos as Glinda tosses Elphaba’s belongings.
Trivia: This track nods to Schwartz’s knack for comedic timing, seen in songs like “Popular.” Powell added a whimsical twist, drawing from his experience with Shrek’s quirky cues, to keep the tone buoyant.
“Levitate the Coin”
In the Film: During a classroom demonstration, Elphaba’s powers shine again in “Levitate the Coin”. The music starts softly with harp glissandos, then builds with swelling strings as she masters the spell. It’s a quiet triumph, underscoring her growing confidence and the professor’s surprise.
Trivia: Schwartz and Powell collaborated closely here, with Schwartz suggesting harp to echo the magical motifs from the stage show. The track’s simplicity highlights Elphaba’s raw talent, a contrast to the film’s later bombast.
“Prince Fiyero of Winkie Country”
In the Film: Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero struts into Shiz, and “Prince Fiyero of Winkie Country” greets him with a jaunty, brass-led melody. The music exudes charisma, matching his carefree swagger as students swoon. It’s a brief but memorable introduction to a key player.
Trivia: Powell leaned on his Kung Fu Panda experience for this track’s bold energy, while Schwartz ensured it tied into Fiyero’s “Dancing Through Life” vibe from the musical. The brass gives it a regal yet playful edge.
“Train to Emerald City”
In the Film: As the trio boards a train to the Emerald City, “Train to Emerald City” chugs along with rhythmic percussion and soaring strings. The music mirrors the train’s motion and the excitement of their destination, painting a vivid picture of Oz’s grandeur.
Trivia: Powell drew from his Bourne scores for the driving rhythm, while Schwartz tied it to the musical’s “One Short Day” energy. The percussion evokes the clatter of rails, grounding the fantasy in a tangible journey.
“The Grimmerie”
In the Film: When Elphaba discovers the Grimmerie, “The Grimmerie” unfolds with a mystical blend of choir and low brass. The music builds suspense as she deciphers its spells, hinting at the power—and danger—within. It’s a pivotal moment of self-discovery.
Trivia: Powell introduced the choir here, a nod to Schwartz’s love for choral textures in Pippin. The track’s ominous tone foreshadows Elphaba’s path, blending new and existing themes seamlessly.
“Transformations”
In the Film: As Elphaba’s fate takes a dramatic turn, “Transformations” explodes with intensity. The “Dark Magic” theme returns, layered with pounding percussion and soaring strings, as she embraces her destiny. The music drives the scene’s emotional weight, leaving viewers breathless.
Trivia: Fans on Reddit have praised this track’s final minute for its raw power. Powell called it a culmination of Elphaba’s arc, blending his new motifs with Schwartz’s “Defying Gravity” echoes.
Powell and Schwartz’s collaboration marries the musical’s theatrical roots with cinematic grandeur, creating a sound that’s both nostalgic and innovative. The Oscar nod reflects its technical brilliance, but its true power lies in how it resonates emotionally. As Powell told Gold Derby, being overlooked by critics but embraced by peers was the ultimate compliment—proof the music feels like it’s always been part of Wicked.
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