Wicked’ and ‘Red One’ hit local theatres today

Two highly anticipated Hollywood productions have premiered in Bangladesh today for local audiences. The musical fantasy “Wicked” and the Christmas fantasy comedy “Red One” debuted at Star Cineplex, according to an official press release shared with local media by the multiplex authorities.

The much-anticipated “Wicked,” helmed by director Jon M Chu, boasts a star-studded cast including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, and Michelle Yeoh, among others. Meanwhile, “Red One,” under the direction of Jake Kasdan, brings together a powerhouse ensemble featuring Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Lucy Liu, and J K Simmons.

As an epic musical fantasy, “Wicked” has already captured the attention of audiences worldwide. The film is adapted from a screenplay crafted by the talented duo Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox.

To meet the grandeur demanded by the story, it was decided to split the film into two parts. Principal photography for the two films began in December 2022 in England. However, production was disrupted by the Hollywood strike in 2023. Finally, the filming was completed in January of this ongoing year.

The world premiere of “Wicked” was held on November 3 at the iconic State Theatre in Sydney, Australia. The film has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising its stunning visuals and compelling performances. Among the cast, Ariana Grande, the globally renowned singer and actress, has particularly drawn attention for her portrayal of Glinda.

In a recent podcast interview, Grande opened up about her initial reservations regarding the role. “At first, I was hesitant to take on Glinda because I didn’t fully understand her character,” she admitted. “I was concerned about how well I could bring her to life for the audience. As someone primarily known as a musician, I also wondered how my fans would perceive me in this role. For those who see me as a pop star, it might feel a bit unconventional to watch me play this character.”

On the other hand, the film “Red One” delivers a unique blend of action, adventure, and festive cheer packed in a Christmas fantasy comedy. it features an impressive cast led by Dwayne Johnson, widely recognised as “The Rock,” alongside Chris Evans, best known for his iconic portrayal of Captain America. The screenplay, penned by Chris Morgan, is inspired by an original story crafted by Hiram Garcia.

The film made its international debut on November 15, delighting audiences worldwide and setting the tone for the holiday season with its heartwarming and action-packed storyline.

“Red One” follows the characters of Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans on an exciting mission to rescue Santa Claus. JK Simmons stars as Santa, bringing warmth and charm to the character. With a mix of comedy, action, and holiday magic, the film offers an entertaining experience for viewers.