Wicked: Jeff Goldblum’s New Take on the Wizard of Oz
By Bill Bria
The Wizard of Oz is one of the most adapted stories in literary history, dating back to L. Frank Baum’s iconic 1900 novel. Since its inception, the tale has been transformed into countless films, with the Wizard himself appearing in every iteration. Over the years, this character has been interpreted through the performances of various actors, including the likes of Richard Pryor, Christopher Lloyd, and James Franco.
With the recent announcement that Jeff Goldblum would portray the Wizard in the cinematic adaptation of Wicked, expectations were tinged with curiosity. While Goldblum’s performance as the Grandmaster in Thor: Ragnarok showcased his talent for playing quirky, unpredictable characters, many wondered how he would approach this new role. Good news—his performance in Wicked proves he is a masterful actor who brings fresh energy to an age-old role.
Goldblum’s interpretation humanizes the Wizard, presenting him as a complex individual rather than just a figure of authority. Unlike the Wizard of Victor Fleming’s 1939 classic, who often appears as a mere tool for characters like Dorothy, Goldblum’s Wizard feels like a stand-alone character with his own ambitions and conflicts. This nuanced portrayal is bolstered by the innovative approach of Wicked, which reimagines the story’s familiar themes and iconography.
While the 1939 film presents the Wizard as an ambiguous figure, acting as both a harbinger of hope and a comical con man, Goldblum’s Wizard integrates warmth with a sinister edge. His performance deviates from previous portrayals by illustrating a character whose intentions are not solely benevolent—especially when revealing the oppressive elements of his rule over the unique realm of Oz.
Wicked captures that tricky balance between homage and innovation. It strategically ties into the lore established by the 1939 film while reshaping how audiences perceive these iconic characters. Goldblum deftly navigates the expectations that accompany such a historically loaded role. While he exhibits his characteristic charm and quirkiness, he simultaneously delves into darker themes, making the audience reconsider their preconceived notions about the Wizard.
In the unfolding narrative of Wicked: Part One, Goldblum manages to embody the duality of the Wizard, highlighting both his endearing qualities and his darker, more troubling aspects. It’s a testament to his skill that he can shift from affable to unsettling without resorting to overt theatrics. As the plot thickens and the tone shifts toward a more intense climax, Goldblum steps up to fulfill that narrative challenge.
As we gear up for Wicked: Part Two, anticipation continues to build not only for the journeys of Elphaba and Glinda but also for Goldblum’s Wizard. Given his unique talents and the depth he brings to the role, there’s potential for this character to become one of his most memorable performances to date. Wicked is now screening in theaters everywhere.
