Wicked vs. Gladiator II: Enchanted Emeralds or Golden Wreaths
A storm is brewing, with the question on everyone’s lips being: enchanted emeralds or golden wreaths? The flying monkeys from Oz take on the Roman legions marching through the sand as it’s Wicked versus Gladiator II, the cinematic face-off that’s shaping up to be this year’s version of Barbenheimer.
To have a bit of fun, we’ve picked some of our favourite pieces that suit the vibe and aesthetic of each movie for our own spin on this epic showdown. Will it be a battle of broomsticks and rubies against broadswords and channel set rings, or will both enchant and delight in their own right?
The Gladiators Return
In the gold corner, weighing in with a sword and sandals is Gladiator II, the long-awaited sequel to Ridley Scott’s 2000 epic.
With Russell Crowe’s Maximus long gone (may he rest in Elysium), this new Gladiator focuses on Lucius, the young boy we saw as an impressionable child in the first film, now all grown up and played by Paul Mescal.
Joining him is a star-studded cast: Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington and Joseph Quinn as a villainous emperor who no doubt fancies himself as another Commodus.
Inspired by the gilded armour, strong characters and opulence of the ruling elite we’ve chosen these rings to embody the spirit of the mighty Gladiator saga.
Are You Not Entertained?
The first Gladiator was a cultural phenomenon, smashing the global box office and winning five Oscars. Now, with Gladiator II, Scott and his crew are stepping back into the arena, hoping to recreate that same magic. But there’s a catch – they’re up against some very wicked witches.
A Wickedly Good Time
In the green corner, with broomsticks, spell books and glittering gowns, is Wicked, the film adaptation of the beloved stage musical. After over a decade of teasing fans, the wait is finally over.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are stepping into the ruby slippers (or, maybe, pointy boots) of Elphaba and Glinda, the two witches who share a complicated friendship before going their separate ways. One goes on to become the Wicked Witch of the West, and the other, Glinda the Good.
With a host of extraordinary characters and iconic imagery inspired by the previous cinematic offerings from Oz, we’ve chosen a few special gemstones to represent this magical world.
For those who’ve been entranced by Wicked on stage, you know it’s more than just a prequel to The Wizard of Oz. It’s a heartfelt exploration of friendship, power and what it really means to be good or evil.
With In the Heights director Jon M. Chu at the helm, and a fanbase clicking their heels with excitement for their tickets, Wicked is bound to sweep in like a tornado.
Green vs. Gold
There’s something poetic about this rivalry. On one hand, you’ve got Gladiator II, a gritty historical epic filled with political intrigue, sand, sweat and gold. It’s a return to the brutal sword-and-sandal seriousness that made the first film an instant classic.
Gold vs. Green
On the other hand, Wicked is all about magic, heart and roaring musical numbers. It’s a world where animals talk, cities are made of emeralds and a badass green witch soars through the sky.
Let’s not forget, Barbie and Oppenheimer showed us that there’s room for everyone at the cinema, even if your choices are dramatically different. Could we be looking at a repeat? The thought of cinemagoers hopping between a gladiator’s arena and the Emerald City is certainly a tantalising one.
Who Will Win?
That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Will audiences flock to see swords clash and empires fall in Gladiator II or defy gravity with Wicked?
One thing is for sure: much like Barbenheimer, this cinematic showdown is bringing people back to the big screen in droves. Whether you’re there for the spectacle of ancient Rome or the soaring melodies of Oz, there’s something for everyone in November 2024.
So, ready your togas or polish your broomsticks – this box office battle is going to be one for the ages. Let’s not forget that ‘both’ is always an option. After all, one could opt for a magical emerald engagement ring and pick a mythical gold band to go with it.
