‘Wicked: The Graphic Novel Part I’ Releases in March with a 75,000-Copy Debut

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As a die-hard fan of musicals and all things Oz, I can’t help but feel my heart race at the prospect of the upcoming graphic novel adaptation of Wicked: The Graphic Novel, Part 1! Growing up, I remember being captivated by Gregory Maguire’s original tale and its subsequent Broadway adaptation, so to see it come to life in this new format is simply magical.

On November 22, 2024, Universal Pictures’ movie titled “Wicked” (or “Wicked: Part I”) made its grand debut in cinemas. Contrary to predictions, this live-action version of Stephen Schwartz’s musical has not only been a successful venture for Universal Pictures, but it has exceeded all expectations and is now one of the most popular films of the season. The film has garnered acclaim for its stunning visuals, acting performances, Chu’s direction, high production quality, and adherence to the original source material. However, some critics have pointed out that the runtime could be a point of contention.

You’re in for a treat with this being just the beginning of a two-part movie extravaganza. The eagerly awaited sequel, “Wicked: Part II“, is set to hit screens on November 21, 2025. A year may seem like a long wait, but it’s also not too far off. In the meantime, fans can look forward to a graphic novel adaptation of the first movie as a tasty morsel to tide them over!

Indeed, Morrow Paperbacks will be releasing a graphic novel adaption based on the storyline of the initial film. In this write-up, we’ll share essential details about this specific edition that you’ll find interesting!

In this work, the author behind the reinterpretation is none other than Gregory Maguire, with captivating illustrations by Scott Hampton. This reimagining will adhere to the storyline of the initial film, but it will offer a fresh perspective, as it won’t be an exact replication of every detail from the movie. The artwork below gives you a sneak peek. Mark your calendars for March 11, 2025, as this masterpiece is set to launch! Due to limited initial printings, only 75,000 copies will be available, so secure your copy now before they’re all gone. Before we delve into a summary, let us first present these intriguing preview images.

As for the official synopsis, this is what we know about the graphic novel:

Discover the enchantment of Oz like never before through this fresh graphic novel interpretation of Gregory Maguire’s acclaimed work, Wicked – the basis for the hit Broadway play and film. This remarkable two-part series, beautifully illustrated by Scott Hampton, will captivate you just as Dorothy was drawn into a vibrant new realm when she first arrived there. Get ready to be transported to this stunning graphic novel adaptation of Wicked, experiencing it anew for the very first time.

In contrast to the enduring Broadway play and movie adaptation that are based on this classic novel, Gregory Maguire’s version offers a captivating tale with sinister undertones. It delves into themes such as morality and ambition, love and camaraderie, and the search for inner strength. Born with emerald-green skin, Elphaba faced numerous hardships in a harsh and impoverished land like Oz, where superstition and magic were insufficient to explain or alleviate the calamities of floods and famine.

Still, Elphaba is smart, and by the time she enters Shiz University, she becomes a member of a charmed circle of Oz’s most promising young citizens. But Elphaba’s Oz is no utopia. The Wizard’s secret police are everywhere. Animals—those creatures with voices, souls, and minds—are threatened with exile.

The young, free-spirited Elphaba, with her green hue and often misinterpreted nature, is resolute on safeguarding the Animals, regardless of the peril it poses against the enigmatic Wizard or her one chance at love. Burdened by remorse and sorrow, she finds solace in acceptance when the world labels her a witch. And surprisingly, she manages to find joy for that girl from Kansas.

As said, Wicked: The Graphical Novel, Part 1 is coming out on March 11, 2025.

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2024-11-24 17:43