Unveiling the Hidden Depths of Wicked: Part 1

As I delved into the mesmerizing world of Wicked: Part 1, I found myself on an unexpected journey of rediscovery. This captivating film adaptation of the renowned musical not only brought back cherished childhood memories of The Wizard of Oz but also shed new light on its iconic characters. Join me as I unravel the intricate layers of Glinda, the Wizard, and the Wicked Witch of the West in this compelling review.

When Glinda Comes Down In Munchkinland My Feelings Were Very Muddled

To be honest, I didn’t think much about The Good Witch growing up with The Wizard of Oz. She was just a gorgeous gal who appeared in her bubble at the start and end of Dorothy’s journey, and I never really connected her to The Wicked Witch. Well, that’s totally changed now. When Wicked opened with “No One Mourns The Wicked” and Glinda descended in her bubble to talk to the Munchkins about the death of the witch, I couldn’t help but clock the way she was seemingly masking how she felt about it all. Then, by the end of the movie, it was clear that Glinda and Elphaba were best friends who split ways at a heartbreaking moment, and I couldn’t help but feel the weight of that as I watched the 1939 film.

I’ve Never Been A Fan Of The Wizard…Now, I Can’t Even Empathize With Him

Upon reflection, the Wizard has never really been that good. I mean, he was hiding his identity and lying to an entire population about his power. However, when I watched The Wizard of Oz as a child, I never saw him as that bad. However, Wicked totally changed that. Not only is he hiding his identity and lack of power from his constituents, but he’s a big part of an evil plan too. Watching him and Madame Morrible get excited about the monkeys growing wings and hearing them talk about making them spies was despicable. Plus, his wanting to use Elphaba’s power for his own gain is disgusting!

I Have A Lot More Empathy For The Wicked Witch Of The West

Now, I’m not even close to the first or last person to make this claim, because it’s the point of Wicked: I feel so much empathy for The Wicked Witch of the West. The show is meant to give you Elphaba’s origin story and teach you about how she became The Wicked Witch, and her tragic beginnings provide a lot of context for her later actions. However, while that’s something I always understood and supported when I saw Wicked on Broadway and in the movie theater, watching The Wizard of Oz really hit differently. I hadn’t seen the original movie since I was a little kid, so I hadn’t had the opportunity to watch it with this new understanding of the Wicked Witch.

Also, Between Wicked And The Wizard Of Oz, I Can’t Stop Thinking About The Monkeys

While I’m on the subject of The Wicked Witch of the West acting in a way I couldn’t fathom after seeing Wicked, let’s take a second to talk about the monkeys, because they hammer home that point. Elphaba is adamant about helping the animals in the musical – she saves the lion with Fiyero, she’s the only one wanting to help Dr. Dillamond, and she’s mortified when she accidentally gives the monkeys wings. So, seeing the Wicked Witch with the monkeys in the original film was a bit jarring. However, this time, I viewed it more as them serving her, because she’s the only one who doesn’t treat them like servants or slaves (in Wicked that is).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wicked: Part 1 has not only redefined the classic characters of The Wizard of Oz but also provided a fresh perspective on their motivations and actions. Through a lens of empathy and understanding, this adaptation transcends the boundaries of a traditional narrative, inviting viewers to reconsider the roles of heroes and villains. As we eagerly await the release of Wicked: Part 2, the legacy of this enchanting tale continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

FAQs

1. What impact does Wicked: Part 1 have on the portrayal of Glinda?

   Wicked: Part 1 delves into the complex relationship between Glinda and Elphaba, transforming the once-perceived “Good Witch” into a multifaceted character torn between friendship and duty.

2. How does Wicked redefine the character of the Wizard?

   Wicked exposes the true nature of the Wizard, unveiling his deceitful schemes and selfish ambitions, painting him in a darker light than the original Wizard of Oz.

3. What new insights does Wicked offer into the Wicked Witch of the West?

   Wicked provides a compelling origin story for the Wicked Witch of the West, shedding light on her motivations and challenges, evoking empathy from the audience.

4. What role do the monkeys play in Wicked and The Wizard of Oz?

   The monkeys serve as a poignant symbol of mistreatment and redemption in Wicked, contrasting with their portrayal as mere minions in the original Wizard of Oz.

5. How does Wicked: Part 1 challenge traditional character archetypes?

   Wicked subverts traditional hero-villain dichotomies, blurring the lines between good and evil, and inviting viewers to reevaluate their perceptions of familiar characters.

6. What emotions does Wicked evoke in its portrayal of Glinda and Elphaba’s friendship?

   Wicked evokes a range of emotions, from heartbreak to nostalgia, as it explores the deep bond between Glinda and Elphaba, revealing the complexities of their intertwined destinies.

7. How does Wicked transform the narrative of The Wizard of Oz?

   Wicked reimagines the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz, offering a fresh perspective on its characters and themes, enriching the story with new layers of depth and meaning.

8. What parallels can be drawn between Wicked and real-world power dynamics?

   Wicked draws parallels between its characters’ struggles for power and control and real-world political dynamics, highlighting the consequences of unchecked authority and manipulation.

9. How does Wicked challenge audience perceptions of morality?

   Wicked challenges traditional notions of morality by portraying its characters in shades of gray, prompting viewers to question their preconceived notions of right and wrong.

10. What can viewers anticipate from Wicked: Part 2?

    Viewers can look forward to further exploration of the characters’ journeys in Wicked: Part 2, as the sequel promises to delve deeper into the consequences of their choices and the evolution of their relationships.

Tags: CineRecap