Wicked’s Cynthia Erivo Got To Choose if Elphaba’s Green Skin Was Practical Effects or CGI

Wicked’s Cynthia Erivo Got To Choose if Elphaba’s Green Skin Was Practical Effects or CGI

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for immersive experiences, I can truly appreciate Cynthia Erivo‘s decision to go for practical effects in the film adaptation of Wicked. Having spent countless hours in various games, from Skyrim to The Witcher 3, I’ve come to realize that nothing beats the tangible feel and authenticity of a well-crafted prop or makeup effect.


Cynthia Erivo disclosed that the team working on the movie version of “Wicked” presented her with a decision: either she would use computer-generated images (CGI) or physical special effects for her portrayal of Elphaba, and she opted for the real-life effects.

In numerous movies from recent times, CGI has been extensively employed. However, Cate Blanchett Erivo, starring as the green-skinned Elphaba in the Jon M. Chu-directed Wicked, desired a genuine immersion. This means that when she looks at herself in the mirror, she sees a green visage.

What did Cynthia Erivo say about choosing practical effects for Wicked role?

During a chat with Empire, the actress explained why she opted for real-world special effects over digital ones when playing the character of Elphaba.

Erivo shared her experience, stating that the makeup chair was incredibly comfortable, varying from 2.5 to 4.5 hours depending on the day’s activities. She felt as if the makeup became a second skin, never causing any irritation. It seemed like extensive research was conducted to find the perfect shade, how it would interact with her skin, and how she could maintain her skin while wearing the makeup.

She went on to say, “I had a choice between using CGI or practical effects. Before even beginning, I decided I preferred the practical approach. My goal was to see my own hands turn green, and to see myself with a green face in the mirror. Additionally, I wanted to observe the responses of others when they saw me as a green character, rather than just walking in as myself. This influenced how I delivered my performance.

Just like the well-known stage musical with the same title by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, Wicked centers on an unusual bond between characters Elphaba and Glinda. This forms the foundation for the initial segment in Chu’s film adaptation.

Besides Erivo, the cast of Wicked also includes Ariana Grande playing Galinda, Jonathan Bailey portraying Fiyero Tigelaar, Michelle Yeoh in the role of Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum bringing the Wonderful Wizard of Oz to life, and Ethan Slater as Boq Woodsman. There are additional cast members as well.

Wicked hits theaters on November 22, 2024.

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2024-11-07 20:40