Wicked Sequel Reveals Biggest Twist Within the First Minute

Note: The following text contains spoilers related to both the film and stage adaptations of Wicked.

The highly anticipated movie adaptation of Wicked opens with a crucial twist that is foreshadowed right from the start. This film is based on Gregory Maguire’s acclaimed novel, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which has also inspired a hugely successful Broadway musical. As adaptations often do, both the musical and film diverge from the source material, creating a rich narrative that expands on the origins of key characters from The Wizard of Oz.

Opening Scene of Wicked Hints at Elphaba’s Deceptive Death

Elphaba’s Survival Tactics in the Stage Adaptation

Elphaba's witch hat in Wicked — Image courtesy of Universal Pictures

The film opens with a haunting shot of the location where Elphaba’s (the Wicked Witch of the West) supposed demise occurred. It displays a dimly lit castle with a lone pointed witch hat, symbolizing her legacy, while Glinda’s narration recounts the tale of Dorothy’s triumph over Elphaba. However, the camera reveals peculiar scratch marks on the floor, hinting at the presence of a hidden trap door. This visual metaphor cleverly connects to a critical reveal in the Broadway version, where Elphaba survives her fateful encounter with Dorothy by using magic to hide below ground until she can ultimately escape.

Strategic Foreshadowing of Elphaba’s Fate

Crafting a Compelling Narrative Through Plot Twists

In the climax of the musical, Elphaba’s escape occurs with the help of Fiyero, portrayed by Jonathan Bailey in the latest adaptation, as they leave Oz together, leaving Glinda unaware of their survival. While this twist enriches the storyline, it also raises questions since Elphaba does not clarify the circumstances surrounding her faked death, which can leave audiences puzzled. By introducing this plot element at the onset, Wicked ensures a cohesive narrative, lending the twist greater significance and depth.

Furthermore, Wicked Part Two may elaborate on this setup by showing Elphaba preparing a vital spell to facilitate her escape. The filmmakers effectively weave in various plot points, including Fiyero’s secrets, enhanced by modern filmmaking techniques and character development, to create a satisfying narrative web. Understanding the nuanced relationship between Wicked and The Wizard of Oz is essential for grasping the film’s depth. As the story unfolds, early foreshadowing reinforces what audiences may already anticipate, enriching the overall experience.

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