The “Wizard of Oz” also has a backstory. The film “Wicked” portrays it as a somewhat cheesy and exaggerated musical about the nuances of good and evil. And one actress in particular makes the film worth seeing.
If the films flood the stores and fill the tables like clutter, then thay’ve made it. After what seemed like a decades-long buying spree of “Frozen” silver-blue crystal clothing,socks,backpacks and Lego bricks,the replacement came in 2023 with “Barbie” and adult products ranging from the sparse to the lofty. Clothes, designer chairs and car paints at Barbiecore, many look worn and strange after just a year.
Now with “Wicked” shades of salad green and blush pink are arriving in retail chains, also as Croc shoes, nail polish or coffee mugs, as tulle dresses, curling irons, cosmetic bags and cashmere sweaters, and as green or pink “Macaroni and Cheese”. Great. Striking. Many things are already sold out.
On November 22, 2024, the fantasy musical “Wicked” hit theaters, the first part of a two-part prequel to the 1939 cult film “The Wizard of Oz.” It was based on L. Frank Baum’s classic 1900 children’s book and negotiates America’s founding myths: freedom, the journey into the unknown, the eternal struggle of virtue against evil.
The film followed the usual black and white pattern of good and evil. “Wicked” now deconstructs evil and tells the complex biography of this witch of the West. Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for lavish productions, dance dramas and musicals including “Crazy Rich Asians” (2018) and “In the heights” (2021).
Chu said in an interview that he waited 20 years to make the film “Wicked.” The film lasts two hours and forty minutes and the screenplay was written by Dana Fox and Winnie Holzmann, the latter having already written the screenplay for the broadway musical “Wicked”. Both are based on the book “wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the west” (1995) by Gregory maguire.
“Evil”: magical power and anger
the Witch of the West is Elphaba Thropp, played by Cynthia Erivo. Elphaba is born green and is hated by her father for this; his mother dies early; The children laugh at her, she is incredibly lonely; only the bear nanny and disabled sister love her. Elphaba has great magical power, which explodes as destructive anger when she witnesses injustice towards animals or weaker people. Her talent is discovered at Shiz University, but she continues to be mocked and excluded.
Glinda (played by pop star Ariana Grande) becomes his roommate and rival,then best friend. Elphaba exposes the hypocrisy and cruelty of the Emerald City and the magic of Oz. Above all, he understands: power is corrupt and enchants only from a distance. Ultimately, the residents of Emerald City declare her a witch who should be killed.
The green and pink popcorn is sold out at the cinema, as are the green or pink collectible glasses.The young woman at the ticket check asks a group of visitors dressed in black tulle not to sing loudly during the film screening. The musical “Wicked” has been performed at the Gershwin Theatre in Manhattan sence 2003. Songs like “Defying Gravity” or “popular” have long been part of the general repertoire of fans.
A visit to the cinema begins with prejudices: after “Cruella”, “The Hobbit” and “maleficent – The Dark Fairy”, now there is another story that should explain how evil became evil.after Harry Potter’s Hogwarts and Wednesday Addams’ Nevermore Academy, it is also another school for misfits with magical powers. But things are different. The film is fantastic and whimsical and sad and stunning, despite all the criticism that it is indeed too long, too perfect, too moralizing, too feminist, too woke, too identity political, too willfully anti-racist.
“Wicked” can also be interpreted as a commentary on the lack of the past in our present. No one understands what once was, but everyone dreams of the future, says Elphaba and Gilda’s history teacher, Dr. Dillamond. Are people or creatures born evil? Where does evil come from, does it have a history?
In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy says to Glinda, “But I thought all witches were evil.” ”Oh, but no,” says Glinda, “there is only one wicked witch in the land of Oz. And that is the Witch of Oz. the West.” Margaret Hamilton’s witch embodied one of cinema’s first female monsters, disgusting, shrill, evil.
Cynthia Erivo’s elphaba, on the other hand, is melancholic and smart. Sadness can be seen again and again on his face; she can also be seen in her hands when she receives insults. Their evil is self-protection.
“Wicked” also thrives on Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda: adorable, funny, nervous and vain, with the tense and carefree attitude of a clichéd blonde. The film tells the admittedly somewhat banal, but powerful and comforting story that even outsiders and people who think differently can become heroes.
Oppression breeds resistance, no one is just good or just bad. There are nuances and above all: empathy, probably the most important of all human qualities, which can overcome all differences.
What themes are explored in the musical “Wicked” that resonate wiht modern audiences?
Interview: An Insight into the World of “Wicked”
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re delighted to have with us Dr. Elizabeth Green, a prominent scholar in film studies, who specializes in adaptations and cultural narratives. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Green!
Dr. Elizabeth Green: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The excitement around “wicked” is palpable with the film set to release on November 22, 2024. Can you share your thoughts on why this musical has resonated so deeply with audiences over the years?
Dr. Green: Absolutely! “Wicked” captivates audiences as it intricately deconstructs the classic good vs. evil dichotomy presented in ”The Wizard of oz.” Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West, allows viewers to explore themes of identity, morality, and social justice. It invites empathy for characters often seen as villains, challenging the audience to question inherent biases and societal norms.
Editor: That’s quite insightful! You mentioned the struggle against social norms; how do you think the film’s aesthetics—like the vibrant greens and blush pinks that have influenced fashion—contribute to this narrative evolution?
dr. Green: The aesthetics play a crucial role in illustrating the film’s themes. colors like green and pink do not just represent the characters visually but also symbolize the complexities of human emotions. The vibrant yet contrasting palettes reflect the duality of the characters’ experiences, making them resonate on both a personal and societal level. The retail frenzy surrounding these colors—like croc shoes and tulle dresses—demonstrates the cultural impact of the narrative; merchandise becomes a canvas for expression.
Editor: It’s fascinating how cultural artifacts like clothing can represent deeper narratives. Director jon M. Chu has waited 20 years to bring this story to the screen. How does his background in immersive and lavish productions influence “Wicked”?
Dr. Green: Jon M. Chu’s experience with musicals and grand visuals sets a high bar for ”Wicked.” His previous works, such as “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights,” illustrate his ability to blend storytelling with innovative visuals.For ”Wicked,” I anticipate his direction will not only highlight the emotional arcs of Elphaba and Glinda but also create an enchanting world that draws viewers into their journey. The lush production design will likely serve to enhance the film’s emotional resonance.
Editor: Given that “Wicked” has its roots in L. Frank Baum’s early 20th-century literature, how does this film adaptation engage with America’s founding myths about freedom and evil?
Dr. Green: The original story of “The Wizard of Oz” simplifies the concepts of good and evil, depicting a clear path towards righteousness. “Wicked,” though, digs deeper into these founding myths and explores the gray areas of morality. It challenges viewers to confront the hard truths behind freedom—especially for marginalized individuals—and questions who gets to define evil in society. By repositioning the narrative through Elphaba’s experiences, it allows for a broader exploration of both personal and collective histories that shape our present.
Editor: Wow, that perspective realy adds depth to our understanding of the film. As we prepare for the release, what are you most excited about in this adaptation of ”Wicked”?
Dr. Green: I’m particularly looking forward to how the screenplay, written by Dana Fox and Winnie Holzmann, will translate the beloved Broadway musical’s magic to the screen. Their experience brings authenticity to the characters and storylines.Additionally, I’m eager to see how modern sensibilities are woven into the narrative, making it relevant for both new and longtime fans.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Green, for sharing your valuable insights into “Wicked.” It’s clear that the film promises to be a rich exploration of complex themes wrapped in a visually stunning package. we can’t wait to see it!
Dr.Green: Thank you! I appreciate the chance to discuss such a compelling narrative. I believe “Wicked” will inspire many discussions when it premieres!
