By now, you’ve seen the fanfare for Wicked - a film that explores the origins of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch from The Wizard of Oz. Despite being bothered by the casting of a Black woman as an evil witch, I decided to give the film a chance, only to discover that’s exactly why a Black woman was casted. Elphaba’s story is a metaphor for the Black woman’s plight, and it got very deep and very triggering.

From birth, it’s established that life for Elphaba ain’t gon be no crystal stair. Her green skin makes her a spectacle, and she is ridiculed everywhere she goes. Her suffering is particularly pronounced when she enters boarding school, and becomes roommates with the “good” witch Glinda; a beloved blonde, who is the complete opposite of her. She has it all, but is still threatened by Elphaba’s existence, especially her raw talents in witchery. Glinda sometimes plays nice with Elphaba to receive the benefits of her powers; like access to Madame Morrible. In fact, the only time anyone treats Elphaba well is when they need her magic; but as soon as they find out they can’t use her, she’s demonized and discarded. The Black women in the theater were clutching our pearls “Is this play about us?”

In a contrast as stark as pink and green, the film reveals the beauty of Elpahba’s character while illuminating the ugliness in Glinda’s. Elphaba is a passionate advocate for marginalized people. She values equality, and wants to use her powers for the greater good. Glinda values image and popularity and uses her magic for status. Yet history remembers Glinda as good, and Elphaba as wicked. Elphaba’s decision to deepen the relationship with Glinda after she showed her true colors grinds my gears. She even invites Glinda to meet the Wizard of Oz with her; an encounter that was detrimental for Elphaba, and exponential for Glinda. It was a real time example of destiny swapping, and considering the film opens with Elphaba’s funeral, we know it doesn’t end well for her. Mama said never go job hunting with friend’s.

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo on a press tour.

In an alternate universe, I would’ve watched this film with the first female president — a biracial woman from California, who went to my HBCU about to take office. It would’ve felt sentimental, timely, and vindicating. In reality, I watched a film about a woman who is discriminated against, vilified when she doesn’t comply, and persecuted for her protest, on the precipice of a 34-time felon president who incited a riot reclaiming office. It’s all so dystopian, depressing even, but it also “is what it is.”

"Black women are the mules of the earth" - Zora Neale Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God

The film did drive home a message; and that’s the importance of putting yourself first. In the words of Zora Neale Hurston, “Black women are the mule of the world.” We are conditioned to show up for everyone around us, no matter our circumstances, but what if we stopped picking up the pieces and reclaimed our time? Like Elphaba, maybe we have to accept that many will not like us, simple because they not like us. In this society, we may never be acknowledged for the unique beauty, intelligence, and dynamism we bring to the table, but that’s not our problem - and if we’re flying solo, at least we're flying free.

Stay Wicked,

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