‘Wicked’ takes center stage in ArtsQuest’s holiday film lineup

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The magic of Oz is casting a spell over the Lehigh Valley as ArtsQuest’s Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas leads its holiday programming with the debut of “Wicked: For Good.”

ArtsQuest announced a full slate of winter films, special events and seasonal favorites, but it’s the journey through Oz that’s expected to draw the biggest turnout.

Fans were able to step back into the world of Elphaba and Glinda with a re-release of “Wicked,” screening Nov. 14-20. The event built toward the premiere of “Wicked: For Good,” Nov. 20 and delivering what’s billed as the epic emotional finale to last year’s global blockbuster — the most successful Broadway-to-film adaptation in history.

Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Academy Award nominees Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, “Wicked: For Good” follows the two witches as their destinies and friendship reach a dramatic crossroads.

The film opened to a 70% Rotten Tomatoes score from critics and 95% from audiences.

“An absolutely beautiful finale,” said Joshua, an audience member. “If you are a fan of musicals or musical theater, this is one of the best adaptations to the big screen. The additions bring us closer to Oz. A must-see on the big screen with theater audio.”

Bethlehem will once again appear on the big screen when “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” returns Nov. 26. Shot in the city, including scenes at Christkindlmarkt, the film follows a grieving father who finds new purpose as Santa Claus.

A Q&A with co-director Daniel Roebuck and producer Tammy Roebuck will follow the 8 p.m. screening on opening night.

On Dec. 19, the cinema will open “Hamnet,” a drama inspired by Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel about Shakespeare, his wife Agnes and the grief that led to the creation of “Hamlet.”

Holiday movie fans can also meet Ellen Latzen, who played Ruby Sue Johnson in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Latzen will join audiences for a Q&A after a 6 p.m. screening of the classic on Dec. 21.

Audiences can shout, sing and laugh through holiday favorites during the Quote-Along Series, all at 7:30 p.m.:

• “Elf” — Dec. 3
• “A Christmas Story” — Dec. 10
• “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” — Dec. 17
• “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” — Dec. 18

Seasonal classics also return to the big screen at noon:

• “White Christmas” — Dec. 4-6
• “The Bishop’s Wife” — Dec. 11-13
• “It’s a Wonderful Life” — Dec. 18-20

Tickets for all screenings are available at artsquest.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the box office which is cashless.