Summary of "All the differences between the WICKED movie and WICKED the musical on stage" Podcast Episode

Podcast: MickeyJoTheatre
Episode Title: All the differences between the WICKED movie and WICKED the musical on stage
Release Date: December 10, 2024

Introduction

In this episode, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre explores the nuanced differences between the newly released "Wicked Part 1" movie and the original Broadway musical. Celebrating the film's adaptation of the beloved stage production, Mickey-Jo provides an in-depth analysis of character developments, plot alterations, and musical adjustments that distinguish the cinematic version from its theatrical counterpart.

Overview of Both Productions

Mickey-Jo begins by acknowledging the intricate lineage of "Wicked," tracing its origins from Gregory Maguire's novel to the Broadway musical, and now, its film adaptation. He emphasizes the film's dedication to maintaining the original material's essence while introducing changes suited for the screen.

Notable Quote:

"A film based on a musical based on a book that also as a film pays homage to another film based on the book that that book that the musical that the film is based on is based on." [00:00]

Differences in Elphaba's Backstory

One of the most significant changes Mickey-Jo identifies is the expansion of Elphaba's backstory in the film. While the stage musical provides a brief glimpse into her early life, the movie delves deeper into her childhood and familial relationships.

• Stage Musical: Elphaba's backstory is primarily conveyed through Glinda's narration in the song "No One Mourns the Wicked," highlighting her traumatic birth and her father's rejection.

• Film Adaptation: The movie offers a more detailed exposition of Elphaba's upbringing. It introduces Dulcie Bear, her nanny, who raises her, providing insights into her feelings of abandonment and fostering her empathy towards marginalized communities.

Notable Quotes:

"We learn that with neither of her parents interested in taking care of her from the moment of her birth, she was raised by her nanny, Dulcie Bear." [07:30]

"She really is supportive of her sister." [12:15]

Arrival at Shiz University Differences

Mickey-Jo highlights alterations in the depiction of Elphaba's arrival at Shiz University, contrasting the stage and film versions.

• Stage Musical: Elphaba attends Shiz alongside her sister Nessarose, under their father's begrudging permission solely to care for Nessarose.

• Film Adaptation: Elphaba's entrance is more dramatic. She arrives alone initially, not planning to enroll, and later joins Nessarose under different circumstances, showcasing her support and nuanced family dynamics.

Notable Quotes:

"In the film, this is a moment where Nessa is going to start this next chapter of her life with independence." [15:45]

"Elphaba is happy for her." [16:10]

Character Differences: Glinda

Glinda's character receives a more layered portrayal in the film, moving beyond her bubbly and superficial stage persona.

• Stage Musical: Glinda is portrayed as youthful, charming, and somewhat superficial, immediately befriending Elphaba.

• Film Adaptation: The movie presents Glinda as more introspective and concerned with her public image, adding depth to her interactions with Elphaba.

Notable Quotes:

"She thinks she means well when she offers to help Elphaba with her affliction, but it feels almost like a patronizing gesture." [20:05]

"Glinda being someone who wants to be liked, who wants to be seen to be doing the right thing." [21:40]

Character Differences: Madame Morrible

The character of Madame Morrible undergoes a significant transformation in the film adaptation.

• Stage Musical: Madame Morrible is depicted as a single, bubbly, and somewhat comedic headmistress who plays a pivotal role in guiding Elphaba and Glinda.

• Film Adaptation: The film splits Madame Morrible into two distinct characters: a more stern and serious Madame Morrible portrayed by Michelle Yeoh, and a new character, Ms. Coddle, played by Keola Settle, who embodies some of the nurturing aspects previously held by Morrible.

Notable Quotes:

"This one, I am holding the monkey." [30:10]

"Madame Morrible walks up onto the balcony and with a gesture of her hand orders the guards to release Glinda." [32:50]

Character Differences: Nessa Rose

Nessa Rose receives enhanced representation in the film, particularly concerning authentic disability portrayal.

• Stage Musical: Nessa Rose is portrayed by non-disabled actors, with her disability being a crucial aspect of her character but not deeply explored.

• Film Adaptation: The film casts Marisa Bodhi, a real wheelchair user, to authentically represent Nessa Rose, adding depth to her character and her interactions with Elphaba.

Notable Quotes:

"This is a brilliant move forward in terms of authentic disability representation." [35:30]

"Elphaba advocates for that for her." [36:15]

Character Differences: Fiero

Fiero's character arc is notably different between the stage and film versions, providing varying depths and motivations.

• Stage Musical: Fiero starts as a superficial, narcissistic character who undergoes significant growth after his interactions with Elphaba.

• Film Adaptation: The movie introduces Fiero as more thoughtful and introspective from the outset, with a dramatic entrance where he nearly runs Elphaba down on horseback, setting a different foundation for his transformation.

Notable Quotes:

"This particular arrival changes him from the narcissist that he was to someone a lot more thoughtful." [50:00]

"He's as charming as Fiero has ever been and as charismatic and as confident." [52:20]

Musical Differences

While the film remains largely faithful to the original stage score, several musical modifications enhance the cinematic experience.

• "Popular": The film version features an extended ending with higher keys and a soprano solo performed by Ariana Grande, adding a fresh dynamic to the song.

  Notable Quote:

  "There is a different ending to the song 'Popular'..., which is very well sung by Ariana Grande." [55:10]

• "One Short Day": The movie includes additional vocal lines and extended sequences, infusing a Disney-esque feel that aligns with the broader Oz mythology.

• Grimmery Backstory: A substantial new musical number explores the history of the Grimmery, deepening the lore of Oz.

Scene and Dialogue Differences

Mickey-Jo points out several alterations in scenes and dialogues that serve to refine character interactions and narrative flow.

• Madame Morrible’s Proclamation: In the film, her declaration against Elphaba immediately impacts Elphaba’s father, adding emotional weight early on.

  Notable Quote:

  "We see Madame Morrible’s proclamation leading directly to Elphaba’s father clutching his chest and collapsing." [70:25]

• New Scenes: The film introduces moments such as Glinda showing Elphaba their shared room and discussing ambitions, which add depth to their friendship dynamics.

• Dialogue Adjustments: Lines like "pink goes good with green" are emphasized differently, reflecting evolving relationships.

  Notable Quote:

  "Glinda says 'pink goes good with green,' and Elphaba clarifies it to 'goes well with green.'" [1:05:30]

Conclusion and Insights

Mickey-Jo concludes that the film adaptation's changes generally enhance character development and narrative depth. By focusing solely on the first act, the movie allows for a more detailed exploration of Elphaba's backstory, relationships, and internal conflicts. These adjustments not only preserve the essence of the original musical but also provide a richer story suited for the cinematic medium.

Notable Quotes:

"For the most part, I think they actually serve each of the characters and the overall narrative better in the film because they have the time to." [1:20:00]

"But those have been all of the larger differences that I have noticed between Wicked, the stage musical and the Wicked film." [1:25:45]

Mickey-Jo expresses excitement for future adaptations, anticipating how upcoming parts will further develop the story and characters.

Notable Quotes Summary

• Mickey-Jo:

  "Fiero entering on horseback changes the entire trajectory of his character. Oh my God." [00:00]
  "There is a brilliant move forward in terms of authentic disability representation." [35:30]
  "I think Something Bad resonates a lot more in the film." [45:00]
  "No one mourns the Wicked kill her." [1:10:15]

Final Thoughts

This episode provides a comprehensive comparison between the "Wicked" movie and its stage musical, offering listeners a detailed understanding of how the film adaptation both honors and reinterprets the original material. Mickey-Jo's thorough analysis underscores the thoughtful changes made to enhance storytelling, character depth, and thematic resonance, making it a valuable resource for fans of both versions.