The movie Wicked: Part 1 is the background story of how the “ Wizard of Oz “ characters came to be from the works of Lyman Frank Baum in 1939 portraying the story of the Tin man, Scarecrow, Cowardly lion, Dorothy and even the world of munchkins. It tells a story of how Elphaba or better known as the Wicked Witch of the West came to be and why Glinda is perceived as the “Good Witch”. It tells a story of two best friends, one an outcast, unaccepted by society and one as popular as ever becoming friends. In part one it leaves off on the powerful song Defying Gravity when Elphaba is fed up with society’s expectations and restrictions. This movie appeals to my theater kid side with the immense dance numbers and songs but also appeals to real- life scenarios.
Fan favorites of this piece are Defying Gravity and Popular for its very theater and real- life drama that tethers the idea of restriction from others and society expectations needing to be met. “ I like {them} because they represent how people our age have a hard time fitting in and don’t want to live under the rules of others”. Kayley Small, a sophomore at Goffstown high school states. In the song Defying Gravity the lyrics “ the rules of someone else’s game “ correlates with the idea. It appeals to me because the reality of how much one should listen to the norms and clicks of society and when it gets to be too much does one continue to fall and crumble into the expectations or make the change.
Wicked is one for all ages because everyone can relate to not fitting in and changing themselves to match the normal. This movie really captures what loyalty looks like but also what crumbles under the watchful eyes of others and how it destroys someone till they break. One can either fall under pressure or rise above it. The movie is light hearted with a very serious undertone depending on how close one watches the movie. It’s a movie that’s rewatchable and meaningful.
This musical adaptation deserves all the glory it gets for the work that was poured into it. From singing while acting; instead of in the studio, to adding in real life stunts to the mix by, this movie catches one’s eye not letting it leave the screen. The sets are indescribable and the dance numbers energetic; it feels as though you’re there with them.
The themes “ friendship and acceptance I think shows you should never judge someone for something about them” Charlotte Small a sophomore at Goffstown High explains are the most important of the movie.
The movie, overall, was a huge hit especially with theater kids and theater kids at heart and even non theater kids. The only part that leaves viewers left with a hole in their heart is the fact that this isn’t the end of the story. The second half arrives in one long year. “ I give it a 8.5 out of 10 just out of spite for the fact that I have to wait till November for the next part.” Kayley admits. Viewers wait impatiently until the return of Part 2.
