Over the years, numerous attempts have been made to reboot and reinterpret the classic film ‘The Wizard of Oz’, with varying degrees of success. While some adaptations, like ‘The Wiz’, gained traction, others, such as ‘Return to Oz’ and ‘Tin Man’, have faded into obscurity. Even ‘Oz the Great and Powerful’, although commercially successful, received mixed reviews and has largely been overlooked.
None, however, have reached the iconic status of MGM’s 1939 classic. In contrast, the Broadway musical ‘Wicked’ has made a significant cultural impact. Following its successful Broadway debut in 2003 plans for a movie adaptation began, which are finally coming to fruition with a release set for Thanksgiving weekend 2024, starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
The recently released trailer has sparked excitement among viewers, but those unfamiliar with the stage show may find its connection to the original film puzzling. ‘Wicked’ is based loosely on Gregory Maguire’s novel and explores the story of Elphaba, an outcast girl born with green skin, and her friendship with the popular Galinda (later Glinda). The musical details their unlikely bond and the events leading to Elphaba being labelled the Wicked Witch of the West.
While marketed as a prequel to ‘The Wizard of Oz’, the relationship between the two narratives is more complex. ‘Wicked’ unfolds in two acts, with the first half focusing on Elphaba and Glinda’s friendship before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz.
Image Courtesy: Collider
The second act connects more directly to the events of the original film, albeit with significant differences in plot and character motivations. Ultimately, while ‘Wicked’ offers a nostalgic look back at Oz, it stands as its own interpretation rather than a straightforward prequel, enriching the original tale with fresh perspectives and emotional depth.
–Farheen Ali