We’ve heard the rumors since the Broadway musical debuted in 2003, but it looks like Wicked, a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, is finally hitting the big screen! Marc Platt, the producer behind Into the Woods, recently announced that the theater sensation will become a feature-length film with hope for release in 2016. AKA SO SOON!
Unless you’re lucky enough to have seen the show on Broadway or on tour, you probably have been waiting for this moment for a long time. I mean, you’ve probably already listened to the soundtrack more times than you can count and done a perfect rendition of “Popular” at your middle school talent show.
I can’t wait for Wicked madness to hit the masses. Besides being a super entertaining story with awesome music, I’ve learned a lot from Elphaba and the rest of the crew in Oz.
1. First Impressions Aren’t Everything
Elphaba (who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (the Good Witch) definitely thought they drew the short straw in the roommate lottery. A green girl dressed in all black and a perky, pink mean girl? Come on, admissions…we know you didn’t read the roommate survey at all. But it turns out once these two girls look past their initial judgements, they can get along great. Sure, they might not have a lot in common, but friends don’t have to listen to the same music or come from similar backgrounds. Instead, they use their different strengths to help each other.
2. It’s Okay to Be Different
Instead of conforming or playing it safe, Elphie stays true to herself. Without spoiling the story, I can say not being afraid to take a different path is what makes Elphaba defy gravity.
3. Remember to Keep Dancing Through
Maybe don’t act as freewheeling as Fiyero, but he does have the right idea in that you can’t be serious all the time. Life is a lot easier (and more fun) when you can put things in perspective, remembering to let little things slide and enjoy yourself. It’s just life, so keep dancing through.
4. Question Authority
Like Dorothy, Elphaba quickly realizes the Wizard isn’t all he appears to be. He’s just a fraud who admits he was just “one of your dime a dozen mediocrities” who happened to be in the right place at the right time. While it’s important to respect authority like professors or bosses, they’re only human. Never dismiss your ideas because someone who has “power” doesn’t like them. You might just be onto something new.
5. People Leave a Lasting Affect
For effect, you might want to start playing “For Good.” I hate cliche sayings like “Everything happens for a reason,” it is absolutely true that the people you meet and form relationships change the course of your life. You can learn something from every person you meet no matter how fleeting the relationship.
6. Pink and Green Can Go Well Together
Who knew?
