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5 powerful life lessons from ‘Wicked’ starring Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo
“Wicked” is finally out in Philippine cinemas, and it is nothing short of magical!
The entire film is a cinematic experience that enchants audiences with its mesmerizing visuals, powerful musical numbers, and a captivating story that reimagines the land of Oz.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's star power also brought great depths to their characters of the Good Witch Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West Elphaba.
Thus far, the musical film boasts a 99% audience rating on the Popcornmeter of film and TV show review website Rotten Tomatoes. Professional critics have also given it a score of 91% on the Tomatometer.
“Wicked," however, offers much more than its impressive casting, beloved songs, and breathtaking visuals. The film is also a treasure trove of life lessons encased in the magical world of Oz.
Here are five powerful lessons from this iconic tale that can uplift us in our own lives.
1. It’s OK to be different
Elphaba’s green skin and unique talents make her stand out, yet even though she encounters discrimination, she eventually learns to value her individuality. Her journey serves as a great reminder to all of us that our differences are what make us extraordinary.
2. Build meaningful connections
Speaking of differences, Elphaba and Glinda’s unexpected friendship is a great example that accepting each other’s oddities and learning from them help us grow into better versions of ourselves.
The bond they built by welcoming each other with a warm embrace shows that meaningful connections may develop even in the most unusual situations.
In the film, Glinda and Elphaba agreed that “Pink goes well with green" during the moment when they learned more about each other’s stories.
3. Privilege calls for compassion and responsibility
Glinda knows to herself that she’s had an easier path in life than those around her, including Elphaba, Nessarose, and Doctor Dillamond. So, with her best effort, she uses her privilege to influence for good.
A big part of the movie will tell the important reason why Glinda decided to change her name from the original Galinda.
This quality of Glinda emphasizes how important it is to acknowledge one's privilege and use it to help rather than turning a blind eye to inequality.
4. Stand up for what you believe in
Even if it feels difficult or unwelcome, staying true to one's values is a powerful act of integrity.
“Wicked” reminds us that doing the right thing often requires a heavy amount of bravery and courage, but it can lead to a meaningful change.
5. Everyone deserves a chance to fly
Last but surely not least, the iconic “Defying Gravity” scene represents moments of embracing one's ability to rise above limitations and stereotypes.
The song includes the lines “I'm through accepting limits/ 'Cause someone says they're so/ Some things I cannot change/ But 'til I try, I'll never know,” encouraging viewers and listeners to overcome their fears and doubts, and follow their dreams.
“Wicked," directed by Jon Chu, is the first part of Universal's film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical. The film follows the Good Witch Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West Elphaba in their self-discovery journey in Shiz University.
Aside from Ariana and Cynthia, the "Wicked" cast also includes Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Jeff Goldbum as the Wizard, Ethan Slater as Boq, Marissa Bode as Nessarose, and Peter Dinklage as Doctor Dillamond.
— CDC, GMA Integrated News
