The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC), the authority responsible for assigning age ratings to films and television programs, has recently categorized Ariana Grande’s new musical adaptation of *Wicked* with a PG certificate due to concerns over content that may be distressing for some viewers. The film, which has generated significant excitement among fans ahead of its U.S. release on November 22, has drawn attention for its thematic exploration of discrimination, particularly focusing on the character of Elphaba, the green-skinned witch known as the Wicked Witch of the West.
Elphaba, portrayed by British actress and vocalist Cynthia Erivo, endures a challenging upbringing marked by rejection and ridicule due to her unique skin color, which sets her apart in a world that harbors prejudices against those who look different. The BBFC has highlighted instances within the film where this green-skinned character is subjected to mockery, bullying, and humiliation, branding such portrayals as a form of discrimination. In an additional layer of complexity, the BBFC indicated that the film features scenarios where talking animals face persecution, further embedding themes of intolerance and societal injustice within its narrative.
The film adaptation of *Wicked* is grounded in the beloved stage musical of the same name, which itself draws inspiration from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, *Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West*. This book reimagines the story of Oz through the lens of Elphaba, providing depth and context to the character historically depicted as a villain in the classic 1939 film *The Wizard of Oz*, which holds a U rating for family-friendly content.
Despite the underlying serious themes, *Wicked* has sparked considerable enthusiasm among audiences, with many drawing parallels to the anticipation surrounding the release of *Barbie* in 2023. However, promotional events for the movie have not been without controversy. Some online commentators have criticized the perceived quirky behavior of stars Grande and Erivo during interviews, sparking a mixture of amusement and skepticism.
In one particular interview, journalist Tracy E. Gilchrist employed an unusual style of questioning that left Erivo visibly moved. She noted the profound impact of one of *Wicked*’s iconic songs, “Defying Gravity,” on fans, stating, “This week, people are taking the lyrics to ‘Defying Gravity’ and really holding space with that and feeling power in that.” This heartfelt acknowledgment prompted Erivo to express her surprise at the emotional resonances of her music. Grande, supportive of her co-star, gently took hold of one of Erivo’s fingers, a tender gesture that underscored their camaraderie.
Now showing in UK cinemas, *Wicked* aims to engage audiences with its rich tapestry of friendship, prejudice, and the quest for self-acceptance, all set against the backdrop of a magical world filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas.
