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Unveiling Wicked’s unique connection to The Wizard of Oz, offering a deeper look into the untold story behind its iconic characters.
The Broadway Hit Heads to Cinemas
After captivating audiences on Broadway and the West End, Wicked is set to charm a whole new generation as it makes its cinematic debut. Split into two parts, this highly anticipated adaptation dives deeper into the magical world first introduced by L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and popularized by the 1939 Judy Garland classic. But how exactly does Wicked tie into the timeline of Oz, and what new perspectives does it bring to this beloved tale?
A Prequel with a Purpose
Wicked serves as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, offering a backstory for characters who have long intrigued audiences. At its heart is Elphaba, the misunderstood woman who would later be known as the Wicked Witch of the West. Unlike the one-dimensional antagonist depicted in Dorothy’s tale, Wicked reveals Elphaba as a complex figure marginalized because of her green skin and feared for her magical prowess.
Her story begins at Shiz University, where she navigates life alongside her sister Nessarose and her eventual best friend, Galinda (later Glinda the Good Witch). Their evolving friendship is a cornerstone of the narrative, showing how societal judgments and personal choices shape their destinies.
Elphaba’s journey to meet the Wizard—a pivotal moment in the film—ultimately seals her fate as the misunderstood villain. As Michelle Yeoh’s Madame Morrible introduces her to Jeff Goldblum’s Wizard, viewers witness how manipulation and prejudice lead to her vilification.
Revisiting Oz Through a New Lens
Wicked doesn’t just stop at exploring Elphaba’s backstory. It reimagines familiar events from The Wizard of Oz, encouraging audiences to reconsider the story they thought they knew. Part One begins shortly after the Wicked Witch of the West’s demise, as Glinda reassures the public of her death. However, the narrative then rewinds, intertwining Elphaba’s life with iconic moments from the original tale.
Audiences will see glimpses of Dorothy and her companions walking the Yellow Brick Road, while Part Two, set for release in 2025, promises to delve further into the origins of characters like the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Cowardly Lion.
A Story of Perspective
What sets Wicked apart is its ability to challenge perceptions. By presenting the story from Elphaba and Glinda’s perspectives, it humanizes characters traditionally viewed through a narrow lens. For instance, Elphaba’s sister, Nessarose, better known as the Wicked Witch of the East, plays a key role in shaping the narrative, particularly as her death intertwines with Dorothy’s journey.
A New Chapter in the World of Oz
With Wicked Part One premiering on November 22, audiences are poised to rediscover Oz as they’ve never seen it before. By reframing its characters and events, Wicked not only pays homage to its source material but also enriches it, offering a poignant commentary on prejudice, friendship, and the consequences of societal labeling.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the magical land or stepping into Oz for the first time, Wicked promises to be a transformative experience, breathing new life into one of the most enduring stories of all time.