“Wicked” the movie, an adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, unravels the complex relationship between Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned girl destined to become the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the popular and ambitious blonde who eventually becomes Glinda the Good Witch, showcasing the events that lead them to their pre-Dorothy narratives. It reveals a world of political corruption, social injustice, and the power of perception, demonstrating how good and evil are often matters of perspective.
The Seeds of Rebellion: Oz Before Dorothy
The movie opens before Dorothy Gale ever sets foot in Oz, introducing us to two unlikely roommates at Shiz University: Elphaba Thropp, born with emerald-green skin and ostracized for it, and Galinda Upland, a bubbly and beautiful social butterfly. Their initial animosity stems from their vastly different personalities and social standings. However, their rivalry gradually evolves into a deep, albeit complicated, friendship as they confront the growing injustice plaguing Oz.
Ozian Politics and Animal Welfare
Central to Elphaba’s character arc is her deep concern for the talking animals of Oz, who are gradually being silenced and stripped of their rights under the increasingly authoritarian rule of the Wonderful Wizard of Oz. This concern is amplified when their history professor, Doctor Dillamond, a talking goat, is mysteriously dismissed and replaced by Madame Morrible, a sinister headmistress with her own hidden agenda.
Elphaba and Glinda’s shared talent for magic allows them to witness firsthand the Wizard’s corrupt practices during a visit to the Emerald City. It is here that Elphaba, horrified by the Wizard’s deception and mistreatment of the animals, decides to defy him, ultimately earning her the moniker “Wicked.”
The Price of Friendship
As Elphaba’s rebellion intensifies, Glinda faces a crucial dilemma: remain loyal to her friend and risk her social standing, or align herself with the Wizard to secure her position in Ozian society. She ultimately chooses the latter, accepting the title of Glinda the Good and perpetuating the Wizard’s propaganda against Elphaba. This decision marks a significant turning point in their relationship, driving a wedge between them and solidifying their opposing public images.
Fiyero and the Triangle of Love
The romantic element of the story revolves around Fiyero Tigelaar, a charming and somewhat apathetic prince from the Winkie Country. Initially drawn to Glinda’s beauty, Fiyero’s encounter with Elphaba awakens a sense of social consciousness within him. He becomes an active supporter of Elphaba’s cause, eventually falling in love with her and dedicating himself to fighting alongside her against the Wizard. This creates a love triangle that further complicates the relationship between Elphaba and Glinda.
Elphaba’s Transformation: From Idealist to “Wicked” Witch
Elphaba’s journey is one of profound transformation. Driven by her ideals and desire to protect the vulnerable, she becomes increasingly disillusioned with the corruption she witnesses. Her attempts to expose the Wizard’s treachery are met with resistance and propaganda, forcing her to adopt more drastic measures. These actions, coupled with Madame Morrible’s deliberate manipulation, paint her as a villain in the eyes of the public.
The Defiance of Gravity
One of the most pivotal moments in the movie is Elphaba’s defiant act of taking flight in the song “Defying Gravity.” This scene represents her complete rejection of the Wizard’s authority and her embrace of her identity as an outcast. It also solidifies her image as a dangerous rebel in the eyes of the Ozian people.
The Misunderstood Magic
Elphaba’s powerful magic is often misinterpreted and twisted to serve the Wizard’s narrative. Her attempts to help others are portrayed as malevolent acts, further fueling the public’s fear and hatred. This highlights the theme of perception versus reality, demonstrating how easily truth can be manipulated to control public opinion.
The Loss of Love and Hope
As Elphaba’s reputation as the “Wicked Witch” grows, she experiences significant personal losses. Fiyero, attempting to protect her, is captured and presumably killed, adding to her grief and fueling her anger towards the Wizard and his supporters. Glinda, despite her internal conflict, continues to uphold the Wizard’s narrative, contributing to Elphaba’s sense of betrayal. These losses ultimately contribute to her perceived wickedness.
The Arrival of Dorothy and the Resolution
The arrival of Dorothy Gale in Oz marks the beginning of the end for both Elphaba and the Wizard. Dorothy’s accidental killing of the Wicked Witch of the East (Elphaba’s sister, Nessarose) and her quest to return home provide the backdrop for the final confrontation.
Facing the Wizard
Elphaba confronts the Wizard one last time, seeking to expose his lies and save the remaining talking animals. However, she is thwarted by Dorothy and her companions, who are manipulated by Madame Morrible into believing Elphaba is a threat.
The Power of Water
In the climactic scene, Elphaba is seemingly melted by Dorothy’s bucket of water. However, it is later revealed that Fiyero, who had been transformed into the Scarecrow to avoid the Wizard, rescues her. He helps her escape Oz, faking her death to ensure her safety.
A Legacy of Misunderstanding
The movie concludes with Glinda vowing to dedicate her life to telling the truth about Elphaba and dispelling the myths surrounding the “Wicked Witch of the West.” While Elphaba may never be fully exonerated in the eyes of the Ozian people, Glinda’s efforts ensure that her story is not forgotten. The ending leaves a sense of hope, suggesting that even in the face of overwhelming injustice, truth and empathy can ultimately prevail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the “Wicked” movie, offering further insight into its themes and characters:
FAQ 1: Is the “Wicked” movie a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz”?
Yes, the movie serves as a prequel, exploring the events that transpired in Oz before Dorothy’s arrival. It sheds light on the characters of Elphaba and Glinda and provides a backstory to the political and social landscape of Oz.
FAQ 2: How does Elphaba become “wicked”?
Elphaba is not inherently wicked. Her actions are driven by a desire to protect the vulnerable and expose the Wizard’s corruption. However, she is framed as a villain by the Wizard and Madame Morrible through propaganda and manipulation.
FAQ 3: What is the significance of Elphaba’s green skin?
Elphaba’s green skin serves as a metaphor for being an outsider and facing discrimination. It highlights the theme of prejudice and the dangers of judging individuals based on superficial differences.
FAQ 4: Why does Glinda choose to be “good” instead of supporting Elphaba?
Glinda’s choice is complex. While she cares for Elphaba, she is also ambitious and desires social acceptance. She ultimately chooses to align herself with the Wizard, believing it is the best path for her own advancement.
FAQ 5: What is the role of Madame Morrible in the story?
Madame Morrible is a key antagonist. She manipulates events and characters to serve her own power-hungry agenda. She orchestrates the propaganda campaign against Elphaba and plays a significant role in shaping public opinion.
FAQ 6: What happens to Fiyero?
Fiyero sacrifices himself to protect Elphaba, seemingly killed by the Wizard’s guards. However, it is implied that he is transformed into the Scarecrow, allowing him to continue aiding Elphaba in secret.
FAQ 7: How does the movie explain the origins of the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion?
While the movie does not explicitly detail the origins of the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion, it hints at the Wizard’s ability to transform people into animals. The fate of some characters suggests the Wizard might have created the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion, reinforcing his tyrannical control.
FAQ 8: Does Elphaba actually die at the end of the movie?
No, Elphaba does not die. Fiyero helps her escape Oz after faking her death, allowing her to live in hiding.
FAQ 9: What are the main themes explored in “Wicked”?
The movie explores themes of good versus evil, prejudice, political corruption, friendship, betrayal, and the power of perception. It encourages viewers to question societal norms and challenge conventional wisdom.
FAQ 10: Is the movie faithful to the Broadway musical?
The movie is expected to be largely faithful to the musical, retaining its core storyline, characters, and iconic songs. However, some modifications and adaptations are inevitable in the transition from stage to screen.
FAQ 11: What is the meaning behind the song “Defying Gravity”?
“Defying Gravity” is a powerful anthem of self-acceptance and rebellion. It represents Elphaba’s rejection of societal expectations and her determination to forge her own path, regardless of the consequences.
FAQ 12: What is the overall message of the “Wicked” movie?
The movie’s central message is that good and evil are often subjective and that judging individuals based on appearances or rumors can be misleading. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and challenging injustice. Ultimately, “Wicked” invites viewers to reconsider the narratives they have been told and to question the accepted versions of history.