I read ALL the novels. Too gritty in parts for a family musical, but here's hoping there's an outright version to the novels. That being said, I wasn't sold on Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, but Ariana Grande as G(a)linda was a no brainer. She needs to bring ALL that energy to Broadway. At least in a limited run. Cynthia Erivo. She nailed it. From a history standpoint on OZ, you always saw the Wicked Witch of the West as just naturally wicked. Because there was no other version. Gregory Maguire's novels give that other version. Wicked, on stage and now film give that other version. Most importantly in the dance sequence, that showed the effects of bullying on a good person, and that even though there was some redemption for the bulliers, the bullied have long lasting consequences no matter how much they want to forgive and forget. Cynthia's portrayal of years of abuse in a few tears was heartbreaking fiction (and unfortunately reality) at it's best. Already purchased the film. Already ready for November 2025 'Wicked: For Good". In the words of G(a)Linda "I couldn't be happier". With the year 2025 is poised to be, this will be a welcome early holiday gift and a much needed exhale. And who didn't rewind, at least twice, Kristin Chenowith and Idina Menzel, the superstars of the "Wiz-O-Mania Super Stars"- that hand on the mouth before the high note ("NOPE")... classic.