TL;DR: Wicked (movie) is a visually stunning, musically powerhouse adaptation that is generally safe for kids ages 8 and up. It’s a massive cultural moment driven largely by Ariana Grande’s "Glinda" energy, which has taken over TikTok. Expect some "scary" moments involving flying monkeys and the Wizard, but the real thing to watch out for is the relentless marketing machine and the two-part movie format that might leave younger kids feeling frustrated when the credits roll halfway through the story.
If you’ve been living under a rock (or just haven't been near a Target or a middle school lately), Wicked (movie) is the long-awaited cinematic version of the smash-hit Broadway musical. It’s a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, telling the "true" story of how Elphaba (the Wicked Witch) and Glinda (the Good Witch) became friends—and eventually enemies.
This isn't just a movie; it’s a "Part 1." Director Jon M. Chu (who did In the Heights) decided to split the stage show into two films. This means you’re getting a nearly three-hour experience that ends right as Elphaba defies gravity. Part 2 won't hit theaters for another year.
While theater nerds are hyped for Cynthia Erivo’s vocals, your kids are likely there for one reason: Ariana Grande.
Ariana’s transition from pop star to Glinda the Good has been a masterclass in personal branding. She has leaned into the "Pink" aesthetic so hard it’s practically a lifestyle. For kids who grew up watching her on Victorious or listening to her albums on Spotify, seeing her play a bubbly, slightly self-absorbed, but ultimately well-meaning witch is a huge draw.
The "Popular" trend on TikTok is also a major driver. Kids are recreating the hair flips, the "pink" outfits, and the comedic timing of the song. It’s catchy, it’s high-energy, and it’s very "preppy" (in the modern digital sense of the word).
Learn more about the "Preppy" aesthetic and how it drives kid trends
Rating: PG | Our Recommended Age: 8+
This movie is a massive production, and it feels like it. It’s not "brain rot" content; it’s a complex narrative about friendship, political propaganda, and standing up for the marginalized. However, it’s also a giant commercial for merchandise.
The "Scare" Factor: If your kid was traumatized by the flying monkeys in the original The Wizard of Oz, they might have a few "feet up on the seat" moments here. The monkeys are CGI and look more realistic (and therefore a bit creepier). The Wizard himself is played by Jeff Goldblum, who brings a "charming but unsettling" vibe that can be a bit much for very sensitive 5-year-olds.
The "Ariana" Influence: Ariana Grande is great in this, but let’s be real: her influence extends far beyond the screen. She has a massive social media presence and her own makeup line, r.e.m. beauty, which has released a Wicked collection. If your child is an "Arianator," expect requests for "pink" everything.
Themes and Content:
- Bullying: There is a fair amount of "mean girl" behavior early on, particularly toward Elphaba because of her green skin.
- Political Themes: The movie deals with the "othering" of Talking Animals and how a government can use a common enemy to gain power. It’s surprisingly deep for a "pink and green" musical.
- Romance: It’s very PG. A few long stares, a dance, and some pining over the local heartthrob, Fiyero. No "spicy" content to worry about.
Our Recommended Age: 16+
A huge warning for parents: If your kid loves the movie and wants to read the source material, do not just hand them the original novel by Gregory Maguire. The book is written for adults. It contains explicit sexual content, heavy political philosophy, and a much darker tone than the "Popular" song would suggest. If they want to read, stick to the movie tie-in books or the script.
Ask our chatbot for book recommendations similar to Wicked for middle schoolers
Ages 5-7: Proceed with Caution
They’ll love the colors and the songs, but three hours is a long time to sit in a theater for a story that doesn't actually end. The flying monkeys and the "darker" scenes in the Wizard’s chamber might be nightmare fuel for some. If you go, bring snacks and be prepared for a "when is it over?" halfway through.
Ages 8-12: The Sweet Spot
This is the target demographic. They’ll understand the friendship dynamics, the "Popular" vs. "Outcast" struggle, and they’ll be old enough to handle the slightly scarier bits. This is also the age where the Ariana Grande fandom is strongest.
Ages 13+: The Social Media Set
Teens will likely see this as a social event. They’ll be posting their "outfits" on Instagram or Snapchat. It’s a great opportunity to talk about the deeper themes of the movie—like how the Wizard uses "fake news" to control Oz.
Because of the "Ariana effect," your child’s digital life might get a "pink" makeover after seeing this.
- The TikTok Rabbit Hole: The "Wicked" hashtag is a mix of movie clips, fan theories, and makeup tutorials. It’s mostly harmless, but as always, TikTok can lead to unexpected places.
- Roblox Collabs: Don't be surprised if there are Wicked-themed "experiences" or items in Roblox. It’s a prime target for movie marketing.
- The "Part 1" Frustration: Make sure your kids know the movie ends on a cliffhanger. There is nothing worse than a 9-year-old who thinks they're about to see the end of the story, only for "To Be Continued" to flash on the screen.
Check out our guide on managing TikTok trends and challenges
The best thing about Wicked (movie) is that it actually gives you something to talk about besides "wasn't that song catchy?"
- On Integrity: Elphaba chooses to be the "villain" in the eyes of the public rather than go along with the Wizard’s lies. Ask your kids: "Is it better to be popular and wrong, or an outcast and right?"
- On Friendship: Glinda and Elphaba are polar opposites. Talk about how they help each other grow. Glinda becomes less shallow, and Elphaba becomes more confident.
- On Perspective: This movie shows that the "Wicked Witch" wasn't actually wicked—she was just misunderstood. This is a great bridge to talking about how we judge people before we know their story.
Wicked (movie) is a rare "event" movie that actually lives up to the hype. It’s a high-quality production that respects the intelligence of its audience. While the Ariana Grande marketing machine is in overdrive, the core story is one of the better ones for kids to consume right now.
It’s a visual feast, the music is top-tier, and the messages about friendship and standing up for what’s right are evergreen. Just be prepared for the "pink" phase that will inevitably follow.
Next Steps:
- Check out the Wicked soundtrack (if you want to hear the songs on repeat for the next six months).
- If your kids want more "Oz," revisit the original The Wizard of Oz to see how the stories connect.
- Take our Screenwise survey to see how your family's media consumption compares to your community.