Movie Review: Wicked

 

When I sat down to watch Wicked, I expected dazzling visuals, catchy songs, and a twist on the classic Wizard of Oz. What I didn't expect was a surprisingly powerful message about animal rights, systemic injustice, and the importance of speaking up for those who can't. 

One of the central themes in Wicked is the oppression of talking animals - intelligent sentient beings who are being systematically silenced and stripped of their rights. Sound familiar? In a world where animals are still exploited for food, entertainment, and experimentation, the parallels are hard to miss.

Dr. Dillamond, a goat professor at Shiz University, is one of the few remaining animals allowed to teach. But even as he lectures, he is increasingly targeted by a government that wants to erase the voices of the animals. His eventual removal is heartbreaking, not just for what it means in the story, but for what it represents in the real world. 

As someone who cares deeply about animal welfare, this part of the film hit me hard. It reminded me of how real-world animals are marginalised, treated as commodities, and often robbed of their natural behaviours and dignity.

Elphaba, the so-called "wicked" witch, is framed as the villain of Oz, but she's actually standing up for those who can't stand up for themselves. Her refusal to stay silent about the treatment of animals is what sets her on a path of rebellion and ultimately exile. There is something incredibly powerful about seeing a character refuse to accept the status quo, even when it costs her everything. In many ways, Elphaba is a metaphor for activists, whistleblowers, and everyday people who choose compassion over convenience. 

Beyond the glittering spells and gravity-defying musical numbers, Wicked offers a viewers a deeper message: things aren't always as green and pink as they seem. Prejudice, fear, and propaganda can distort the truth, whether it is about witches or animals. 

As the story unfolds we are asked to examine our assumptions and consider who benefits from the narratives we are told. It's a timely reminder in an age where factory farming, animal testing, and habitat destruction are often hidden behind sanitised labels and clever marketing.

If you are someone who cares about animals, Wicked might surprise you. It's not just a spectacle or a fantasy tale, it's a story about empathy, resistance, and the courage to speak out. Sometimes the most powerful messages comes from the most unexpected places.